It seems as if your the Momsview "expert" on carseats and I was just wondering if you had a preference on toddler carseats for when DD gets old enough. One thats reliable and comfy at the same time. Are the one that can be used for infants and toddlers and face front and backwards fine? Were looking into buying one now just to have it and I want the best and most reliable out there. TIA!!!

Can you remind me of the weight limit for front facing? I think it was around 24 lbs but im not positive.

By Trina~moderator on Friday, January 30, 2004 - 07:03 am:

You're referring to what's called a "convertible car seat" and yes, that would be the next step for your DD. Keep in mind she needs to stay rear facing until she's at least 12 mos. AND 20 lbs.. Those are the bare minimum requirements for forward facing. Longer is actually better. More info here:

Rear Facing Car Seats: What You Need to Know
(Sorry, the link was so long I couldn't get it to work. Copy and paste into your browser.)

http://www.parentsplace.com/babies/safety/articles/0,10335,240282_263876,00.html

Rear Facing - Unmatched Safety

Recommended Car Seats and a Compatibility Database... (You can look up your specific vehicle(s) and see how different car seats fit)

CarSeatData.Org

Car-Safety.Org - Recommended Car Seats

You can look up Car Seat Clinics and Child Passenger Safety Technicians in your area...

SeatCheck.Org

SafeKids.Org

A Car Seat Message Board where CPS Techs and Advocates post and are very helpful and informative

Car Seats Message Board

Hope this helps! I have my personal favorites for car seats but the "best" car seat is one that fits your budget, your vehicle and your child and is easy to use. I'll check back later.

By Trina~moderator on Friday, January 30, 2004 - 07:07 am:

OK, that first web addy doesn't work. Try this...

Go to Car Seats Message Board. At the top there is a list of articles. Click on "Rear-facing Car Seats: What You Need to Know"

By Eve on Friday, January 30, 2004 - 10:16 am:

We had a Britax Roundabout and LOVED it! Now, we have a Britax Marathon and LOVE it. I am a fan of the Britax seats. They are a bit pricey, but you have them for a long time, so I think it's worth it. Good luck!

By Boxzgrl on Friday, January 30, 2004 - 12:07 pm:

Thanks Trina, all those links are a great help!!!

By Trina~moderator on Friday, January 30, 2004 - 02:57 pm:

You're welcome!

Is your DD still in an infant carrier? How much does the little pumpkin weigh now?

By Boxzgrl on Sunday, February 1, 2004 - 03:26 pm:

Yes, Kaitlyn is still in an infant carrier. I would guess she weighs around 17-18 pounds. I made my decision, im going with a Britax. DH flipped about the price at first but I told him it could be Kaitlyns b-day gift from us since I know she will already gets tons of toys from other people on her 1st bday. Now I just have to go in and have them give me a demo and explain the different seats so I know which one I want. But I will definitely wait until her weight and age reach the requirements!

By Trina~moderator on Sunday, February 1, 2004 - 04:33 pm:

Britax seats are pricey but worth it. I used to poo-poo them simply because of the price, UNTIL I finally got one. Oh my goodness, the quality, features and ease of use just can't be beat. If I were in your shoes now I'd consider the Britax Marathon. It will give you more bang for your buck. It's a convertible and harnesses forward facing to 65 lbs.. The Roundabout only goes to 40 lbs..

You can look up dealers in your area at
BritaxUSA.com.

You can keep an eye out for special deals on the Car Seats board I referred to above. There are also many people familiar with Britax seats.

By Boxzgrl on Sunday, February 1, 2004 - 07:34 pm:

Thanks, i'll have to look at that one.

By Debbie on Sunday, February 1, 2004 - 09:03 pm:

We have the Britax Marathon and I love it. I had to get a new carseat because ds was over 40 lbs at his 3 year checkup. The Marathon is one of the few seats that harnesses over 40 lbs. My dh flipped at the price too, but he now admits it was totally worth it.

It is a great seat. It is easy to install and ds sits up high in it which he loves. It is also so comfortable. I had to wash the cover a few times and it has held up great, still looks brand new. I would definitely recommend checking out the Marathon.