The 411 on Convertible Carseats and Booster Seats
We have already discussed infant car seats and now it’s time to dig into the topic of convertible car seats and booster seats. A convertible car seat can be used rear facing for infants under the age of 1 and forward-facing when a child weighs at least 20 pounds and is 1 year old. Some convertible car seats now hold children up to 65 pounds.
A booster car seat can be used once a child weighs at least 40 pounds. An increasing number of state laws require booster/youth car seats until a child reaches a certain age and/or weight, such as 7 years of age and 80 pounds. Although the age and weight requirements vary from state-to-state, it’s a safe move to opt for a booster car seat even if it’s not mandatory in your state.
When you are looking at various car seats, check out the safety features. Many reasonably priced car seats now have energy-absorbing foam linings similar to those found in bicycle helmets. These linings are comprised of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) foam or Expanded PolyPropylene (EPP) foam. Be sure the foam lines the entire car seat.
Look for a convertible car seat that uses a five-point safety harness rather than a molded plastic T-bar. Most convertible car seats cost about $100, although they can be purchased for $250 and up.
If you are shopping for youth/booster seats, avoid shield boosters. These car seats have a plastic shield that swivels and is held in place by a car’s lap belt. While the price tag may be tempting (shield boosters typically cost about $25), the American Academy of Pediatrics doesn’t recommend using this type of car seat. When selecting a plan to spend about $70, although pricier models can be purchased for more than $200.
Do not purchase a used car seat. Unless you know the history of a car seat, and can confirm that it has not been in a moderate or severe crash, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends that you buy a new one. Plus, when you purchase a new car seat, it comes with a warranty. Most major manufacturers offer a limited 1-year warranty; others promise to replace a product for a lifetime. Always return the product registration card enclosed in the product packaging. This card lets the manufacturer know where to notify you in case there is a recall.
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