Convertible Car Seat Safety

by Contributing Writer

Overview

Convertible car seats are adjustable for infants and toddlers. Infants can ride in this car seat if they are facing the rear of the vehicle, toddlers riding in the car seat should face forward. Some convertible car seats have a shield for the baby's head.
Pros and Cons

With a convertible car seat, the consumer saves more money because once your child grows into a toddler she can still use the car seat. However, these car seats do not have a companion stroller, so that means you will have to buy a separate stroller.

Rear- and Forward-Facing

Placing your child to the rear is the safest, according to car-safety.org. If your child is less than 35 pounds, he should face the rear. If he weighs more than 35 pounds, he should face forward.
Harness

Harnesses with five points are safest. The harness should be below the shoulder when facing the rear. Place the harness above the shoulder when the child is facing forward.
Recline

Never recline a convertible car seat when the car seat is facing forward, according to car-safety.org.
Tethers

Some manufacturers install tethers to their convertible car seats to add extra protection and secure placement while inside the vehicle, according to car-safety.org.