The Best Convertible Car Seats of 2024
You’ll use a convertible car seat for years. Our research and testing will help you find the best one for your family.
By Jen LaBracio, CPST | Fact Checked by Rebekah Kimminau
Choosing the best car seat for your baby or toddler is a big decision. This is especially true when you’re shopping for a convertible seat. Even the best infant car seats only fit babies up to about 18 months at the most; convertible seats, on the other hand, last for years, taking your child from the baby days all the way through elementary school in some cases.
We think Graco’s Extend2Fit 3-in-1 Car Seat is the best convertible car seat for most families. We chose this seat after speaking with multiple car seat experts, analyzing feedback from thousands of Babylist parents and doing our own research and real-world testing on convertible car seats.
The Extend2Fit checks all the boxes: it fits well in almost any type of vehicle (including smaller cars); getting a correct, secure install is quick and easy; and it’s designed to promote extended rear-facing, the safest way for children to ride.
If you need a few more options before you decide what’s the best for your family, we’re giving honorable mention to three additional seats: the Chicco NextFit Zip Convertible Car Seat, Clek’s Foonf Convertible Car Seat and the Nuna Rava Convertible Car Seat.
Why Trust Babylist?
Babylist is the expert in baby; we know baby gear inside and out. We talk with parents face-to-face in our showroom and on our user panels and hear from thousands annually via our Best Baby Products online survey. We know what items millions of expecting parents are adding to their baby registries.
We spoke to several experts while researching this guide, including Rebekah Kimminau, Child Passenger Safety technician (CPST) and founder of The Baby Gear Consultant, and Samantha Taylor, CPST, and the voice behind Mama Knows Car Seats. We also spoke with Joe Colella, Director of Child Passenger Safety at the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association, a leading industry voice on quality and safety for baby and children’s products, and 2020 Child Passenger Safety Hall of Fame Inductee. I drew on my expertise both as Babylist’s gear editor, where I’ve personally tested and reviewed dozens of convertible car seats, and as a parent with over a decade of hands-on car seat experience with my two sons. I reviewed car seat feedback from thousands of parents through Babylist’s annual Best Baby Products survey of thousands of Babylist users and talked to real parents at Babylist for their input. And I reviewed the latest safety data and recommendations from professional organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and leading voices in child car seat safety such as Safe Kids Worldwide, Car Seats for the Littles, and The Car Seat Lady.
How We Judged
Ease of installation. A safe car seat is a properly installed car seat. We made sure all of the seats on our list don’t require a PhD and two hours of your day to install correctly—and that they’ll fit well in most vehicles.
Safety. We took into account independent safety ratings, each seat’s individual safety features and the NHTSA’s Ease-of-Use Ratings. We also chose seats that prioritized extended rear-facing, the safest way for babies and young children to ride.
Ease of use. We considered factors like a seat’s size, materials and other features that impact the day-to-day experience of using a convertible car seat.
Value & affordability. A more expensive car seat doesn’t always equal a safer car seat. Our picks were mindful of price relative to the other critical features on our list.
Here’s what to know before you start shopping for a convertible car seat:
While you can use a convertible car seat from birth, most parents choose to start with an infant car seat and transition to a convertible once their child outgrows their infant seat. Convertible car seats are large, heavy and designed to stay put in a vehicle. This makes them less convenient than an infant car seat that clicks in and out of a base and can attach to a stroller. If you’ll be moving your convertible car seat between different cars often or traveling with it frequently, take into consideration how much the seat weighs and how easy it is to install.
A convertible car seat can take you from day one well through the preschool years. Some all-in-one options can even last through elementary school.
All car seats sold in the US must pass the same federal safety standards. While some car seats have extra safety features, that doesn’t always mean those seats are safer. How easy a car seat is to install + how it fits your child also contribute to a car seat’s safety. You can read more on this later in this guide.
Best Convertible Car Seat
Pros:
- High rear-facing weight limit (50 lbs), so you can rear-face longer
- Fits smaller cars
- Fits all ages of kids well
Cons:
- Wide
- Some parents say harness is difficult to tighten
- Seat belt install can take a few tries because of small belt path
This seat has so much going for it: safety; longevity; easy installation; a great fit in all types of cars; and extended rear-facing capabilities. Any of these features on its own is impressive, but rolled into one and considering the price, you have a pretty amazing seat that takes you from day one through elementary school.
“The original Graco Extend2Fit is one of the most-loved budget-friendly seats,” says Rebekah Kimminau, CPST and founder of The Baby Gear Consultant. “The 3-in-1 version takes all the beloved features of the original and adds even more to love.”
Babylist parents agree. They consistently call out the Extend2Fit for being “very secure” and love that it grows with your child. Many mention it’s the perfect seat “for families who want to have their children rear face for as long as possible.”
Parents with compact cars, like sedans or crossover SUVs, particularly like the smaller front-to-back profile of this seat. (Just note that since Graco requires the cup holders to be attached when the seat is in use, it is on the wider side—something to keep in mind if you need to fit multiple car seats across your back seat.)
My biggest selling point for this seat is its 50-pound weight limit, which lets parents rear-face longer than many other convertible car seats. I also appreciate the extendable leg rest for an extra five inches of legroom to make extended rear-facing more comfortable; I find many older kids will complain less about rear-facing if they’re comfortable. (The seat will take up more room front to back when the panel is in use, though.) Since the seat can sit almost upright when rear-facing, it allows taller parents like me to still be comfy in the front seat if the car seat is installed behind them.
The Extend2Fit generally fits kids of all ages well, from smaller newborns to school-aged kiddos. This 3-in-1 version offers three modes of use—rear-facing, forward-facing harness and high-back booster—so you’ll get years and years of use out of it.
Real Parent Reviews
“The 50 pound rear-facing limit was what initially drew me into the product. However, the more I use it (and try it out in different vehicles), the more I fall in love with it. It is very compact front to back rear-facing even with the foot extension all the way out. I have a Chevrolet Cruze and it has been difficult finding a car seat that will rear face well in it and allow for my passenger seat to be used. Once I put the car seat in I was able to move my passenger seat back even further than before. My daughter loves the extension foot that gives her more legroom. She is able to stretch her legs and tells me it is very comfortable. The seat is also very easy to install and light (which I was surprised about). I highly recommend this seat to everyone! Especially those that wish to practice extended rear facing with their children or those that need a seat with a higher weight limit for their chunky babies!” -MamaMeg88
“I have been researching for months the perfect convertible seat with a high rear-facing weight limit. When I found this seat I fell in love! It’s so compact and fits perfectly in my ‘03 Ford Focus. I love the no-rethread feature! My daughter is 9 months old and hated her carrier… I put her in the Extend2Fit and she loved it! She fits so well in it and you can definitely tell she is comfortable. I recommend this seat to anyone who is looking for a long-lasting, high rear-facing weight, compact and reasonably priced seat. Next baby, I’ll skip the infant carrier completely and purchase another Extend2Fit.” -Ashwee
Additional Specs
| Child Guidelines | Rear-facing: 4-50 lbs, top of head must be 1” below headrest adjustment lever; forward-facing: 22-65 lbs, up to 49”; highback booster: 40-100 lbs, 43-57” |
Honorable Mention: Other Convertible Car Seats We Recommend
Graco’s Extend2Fit 3-in-1 Car Seat is our top convertible car seat pick—but it’s not your only option. These honorable mention picks are some of my other favorites. They’re also safe, reliable and recommended by car seat safety experts and Babylist parents.
Pros:
- Easy to clean
- Easy to install using LATCH
- 9 recline positions (great for installing in smaller cars)
Cons:
- Flimsy cup holder
- Deep seat + high sides can make lifting child in and out difficult, especially as they grow
- Seat belt install is a bit more difficult than other seats
Car seats get really dirty. The Chicco NextFit Zip makes cleaning your car seat—a task that’s about as tedious as it comes—almost satisfying, even after a big mess. With a machine washable seat pad that’s removable with a quick zip, “washing the fabric is incredibly easy,” says Kimminau. The (even) better news? It’s just as easy to reattach the cover as it is to zip it off, something that isn’t true of many other convertibles and a feature you may not know to look for when you’re choosing a seat.
Installation is another big pro here. “The NextFit is easy to install with LATCH using the built-in tensioning system,” explains Kimminau. (She does note that it’s not as easy to install using a seat belt, however, so keep that in mind.) A bubble level indicates when you’ve nailed the correct seat angle in both rear- and forward-facing modes, a feature I really like as it takes some guesswork out of the process. Nine recline positions allow the seat to fit in a wider range of vehicles.
And safety-wise, the seat’s frame has two layers of protection (a deep, rigid shell + a layer of energy-absorbing foam) plus a “deep seat that provides the feeling of being “cuddled” for younger babies and toddlers,” says Kimminau. “Just note that the deep seat can make it hard to put an older baby in, especially if you have a sedan or other vehicle with low sides,” she explains.
If you’re looking for a seat with slightly higher rear-facing weight limits and you don’t mind spending a bit more money, the NextFit Zip Max Air fits the bill—you’ll get the same easy-on, easy-off washable cover plus 25% more legroom in rear-facing mode.
Real Parent Reviews
“4th, 5th, & 6th purchase of this seat (3 vehicles to equip)! It has worked wonderfully for our 2-year-old so when our 10-month-old was ready to transition, so no-brainer to get him one! Love the adjustability of recline and headrest to get that perfect fit for either child. We have this set in both vehicles! Absolutely LOVE that we are able to keep each kid rear-facing longer with weight, even tho I think our height is going to kick us forward facing sooner.” - Lizzy
“Yes, this car seat is a bit more pricey, but hear me out. We initially bought this when my son turned a year old. Absolutely loved everything about it. He sat comfortably in it, super easy and roomy while he was still rear-facing and it’s SO EASY TO CLEAN!!!! You just unzip the cover and it pops right out…no need to fiddle with annoying straps and trying to remember how things went back together. That had me sold until recently. We were in a really bad car accident, on the side that my son was on. Our car was totaled but my son was perfectly safe and completely unharmed. I will be purchasing this car seat for all the future babies I have and will recommend it to anyone and everyone.” - Kasandra
“Super easy to install (in 2021 RAV4)! The LATCH system is exponentially easier than Graco. The sides are quite high, which makes it a little difficult to put the child in if you’re short, but it seems much more safe, sturdy, and let’s not forget about easy to clean…The belts glide so easily when tightening everything. This is a miracle seat, I swear! It also has a little compartment in the back to store the user manual. That’s so nice! I can’t recommend this enough!” - Alexandria
Additional Specs
| Child Guidelines | Rear-facing: 5-40 lbs, up to 43”; forward-facing: 22-65 lbs, up to 49” |
Pros:
- Steel frame, anti-rebound bar + many other extra safety features
- Built for extended rear-facing
- Slim enough to fit 3-across
Cons:
- High; can block your rear/side view if you’re a shorter driver
- Does not have a no-rethread harness
- Heavy
“Built like a tank” is the most common phrase you’ll hear describing the Clek Foonf—and it’s what people like most about it. This iconic seat is packed with advanced safety features, and while it does come at a price, those features are what drew me to it and why I used it as my primary convertible car seat with my first son. CPSTs agree; Kimminau calls the Foonf a “super solid car seat that provides great extra safety features.”
The Foonf, which is designed and made in Canada, is one of only two convertible car seats in the US with true rigid LATCH. (The other is The Convertible Car Seat from Babyark.) This means you’ll get the absolute tightest installation so your seat will move as little as possible in the event of a crash. The seat is built for extended rear-facing for up to 50 pounds; I comfortably rear-faced my taller-than-average son in it well past his fourth birthday without any issue. (It’s worth noting that Kimminau says many kids outgrow the Foonf in the forward-facing position around four or five years old due to the seat’s height limit, but that wasn’t the case for us.)
The frame is constructed from a steel and magnesium substructure and two layers of energy-absorbing foam for side-impact protection, and there’s an anti-rebound bar and an aluminum crumple zone in the base to absorb energy in case of a crash.
You might assume that the heft of this seat would make it extra bulky—but not so. While the Foonf is extremely heavy (38 pounds to be exact, a full 18 pounds heavier than the Graco Extend2Fit), it’s actually one of the slimmest convertible car seats on the market. The CPSTs we spoke to consistently recommended it as a great choice for parents of multiple car seat-aged kids who need to fit three car seats across their back seat. (And remember that most parents don’t regularly switch their convertible car seat between vehicles or travel with it, so the extra weight isn’t much of an issue.) It also sits up high in vehicles, “allowing even small babies to see out the window well,” notes Kimminau.
If you’re chemical-conscious, you’ll be happy to hear that the seat is GREENGUARD Gold Certified and comes in Merino wool fabrics that are naturally flame retardant free. Clek also recently addressed one of parents’ biggest complaints about Foonf: keeping it clean. Older versions of the seat were spot-clean only; the seat cover wasn’t removable, and cleaning up bigger messes was quite the ordeal. In 2024 the brand launched the Railroad Zip version of the Foonf (the model we recommend here) with an easy-on, easy-off zippered cover that can be tossed right in the washing machine.
Real Parent Reviews
“The Clek Foonf is great—our child is going to it from the Nuna Pipa RX Lite. Clek is the only company that releases crash data on their car seats. The seat itself is a little intimidating to get set up initially, but with a video online it’s quite easy. The seat feels well-built and high-quality, and the merino fabric feels great.” - Ryan
“We bought this car seat because we would like to be able to fit 3 across to avoid having to buy a new car. It does fit 3 across fairly well in a Toyota 4Runner. It is compact, the fabric is super nice (we got Mammoth). It does take some getting used to if you have only used other brands for car seats, but I do like how much more secure this one feels. I love that it has the anti-rebound bar in the front by baby’s feet. Don’t let the description of being able to fit 3 across fool you—although it can do that, it is huge and heavier than I thought it would be. By huge I mean surprisingly tall, especially with the rear-facing base. We are very happy with the purchase and will be buying the booster seat and infant seat once we have our 3rd baby.” - Cheryl
Additional Specs
| Child Guidelines | Rear-facing: 14-50 lbs and 25-43”; forward-facing: 22-65 lbs and 30-49” |
Pros:
- Quick, easy install
- High rear-facing weight limit (50 lbs) + an extendable calf rest for added comfort
- 10 recline positions (great for installing in smaller cars)
Cons:
- Straps tangle easily
- Expensive
The first thing parents usually notice about the Nuna Rava seat is its good looks. The modern design gives the seat a distinctive look that sets it apart from other convertible car seats on the market. I’m happy to say that the seat’s function lives up to its stylish looks. It’s packed with thoughtful features for optimum safety and ease of use.
The Rava has one of the highest height and weight maximums for rear-facing on our best-of list, with a 50-pound weight limit and a 49-inch height max. If you’re a parent of taller kids, like myself, or if you’re looking to maximize the time your child can ride rear-facing, this seat is a great choice. Like the Graco Extend2Fit, an extendable calf rest is attached for even more rear-facing comfort and for forward-facing riders who don’t love their legs dangling without much support. (Speaking of comfort, the seat is ultra plush; many parents rave that the cushioning is really soft and very supportive. All fabric options are also flame retardant free.)
The other feature I value in the Rava is the seamless installation. “Installing the Rava is very easy with either the seat belt or LATCH system,” Kimminau points out. While you can use LATCH, Nuna recommends a seat belt install—and it couldn’t be simpler. Just lift the True Tension door, route your seat belt through the path, tighten and lock the belt then close the door back up. It takes me under 30 seconds and it’s so easy to do; I appreciate that I don’t have to take the manual out each time I need to reinstall the seat.
Thoughtful features like retractable cup holders, a no-rethread harness and breathable knit fabric with ventilation panels score extra points for me and for Babylist parents. The fit for this seat is also worth a call-out. There are 10 recline options, making it good for comfort and achieving a proper install in all different types of vehicles.
Real Parent Reviews
“We’ve been using the Rava for almost 3 years now with our oldest, and I’m about to buy another for our second! I absolutely love this car seat, can’t say enough good things about it!! Pros: washes incredibly easy (very important! Think of all the spit-up, crumbs, potty training accidents, etc.), installs in 60 seconds! Seriously so easy. Some [people] complain about the weight of the car seat, but I don’t know many convertible seats that are light. Plus, it installs so easily compared to other seats that I feel like that alone makes up for its weight. [Other pros include] 2 cup holders that can be folded away, no-rethread harness, tons of recline positions, extended rear-facing weight, looks really nice compared to other seats. Cons: The only one I can think of is that it doesn’t really go on sale ever.” - Cameron R.
“Super cushioned and felt very safe for my daughter. There are two little holders to secure the straps while you are trying to get the baby into the car seat—very nice feature.” - Lindsay
Additional Specs
| Child Guidelines | Rear-facing: 5-50 lbs and up to 49”; forward-facing 30-65 lbs and up to 49” |
Other Car Seats We Love
Looking for a convertible car seat to fill a specific need, like a good option for travel or a slim fit for three across? Here are a few more convertible car seats that rank high on our list.
Best Affordable Convertible Car Seat
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Harness holders for easy in and out
- Lightweight compared to other convertible car seats
Cons:
- Installation and strap tightening can be tricky
- Fewer recline positions than other convertible car seats
“This is a great budget-friendly seat that grows with your child,” says Kimminau. “It can fit most babies from the time they are newborns, and can even transition to booster mode for older children.” Just note it can be more challenging to install than some other seats, so read your manual carefully and watch a few videos.
Real Parent Reviews
“I like the low price for a high-quality car seat. The seat is durable and easy to use and clean.” - C.W.
Additional Specs
| Child Guidelines | Rear-facing: 5-40 lbs and 19-40”; forward-facing: 22-65 lbs and 29-52”; belt-positioning booster: 40-100 lbs and up to 52” |
Best Convertible Car Seat for Travel
Pros:
- Ultra lightweight (just 10 lbs)
- Very budget-friendly
- FAA-approved for plane travel
Cons:
- Low weight limit (40 lbs maximum)
- Thin cushioning may not be comfy for long rides
- Takes practice to install correctly
If you travel frequently, you may want to consider a car seat that prioritizes weight. (A lighter car seat is easier to lug around when you’re on the go.) The Cosco Scenera Next is “one of the lightest convertible car seats on the market,” according to Kimminau, weighing in at about 10 pounds. It’s been my go-to travel car seat for over a decade and I’ve taken it on more flights than I can count. It’s also extremely affordable. Keep in mind that installation can take some practice.
Real Parent Reviews
“Once you get past the initial learning curve when it comes to installing this seat, it’s actually easy to do. It’s a great value for the price and our go-to for travel since it’s so lightweight and easy to move between cars.” -Liz P.
Additional Specs
| Child Guidelines | Rear-facing: 5-40 lbs and 19-40”; forward-facing: 22-40 lbs and 29-43” |
Best Slim Fit Convertible Car Seat
Pros:
- Fits three across in almost any configuration
- Two cup holders
- Steel-reinforced frame + energy-absorbing foam
Cons:
- Doesn’t recline as much as some other convertible car seats
- Removable seat covers can be confusing to put back on after washing
- Installation can be tricky
“This is currently the narrowest convertible car seat on the US market, coming in at 16.9 inches wide,” says Kimminau. Like the Clek Foonf, it’s a good choice for families who need to fit multiple car seats across their back seat—at a much more affordable price. “It features a belt lock-off for forward-facing installation, making installation in that mode a breeze. It also converts to a high-back booster seat,” she says.
Real Parent Reviews
“We have 2 sets of twins very close in age so we need 4 car seats at once. I love that 3 car seats can fit in the same row if needed… They aren’t huge and bulky like the first 3-in-1 car seats we got for our older twins. All of our toddlers seem to be comfortable in these car seats. Having the option to remove cup holders is great as well…I have no complaints about this car seat and would recommend it to friends who are looking for a narrow car seat.” -TwiceTWinMama
Additional Specs
| Child Guidelines | Rear-facing: 5-40 lbs; forward-facing: 22-65 lbs; highback booster: 40-100 lbs |
Best All-in-One Convertible Car Seat
Pros:
- Works from birth to big kid (about 10 years of use)
- Quick and easy to install
- High weight limits for all stages
Cons:
- Straps can be difficult to tighten
- Some parents say crotch buckle is short
An all-in-one car seat is a convertible seat that’s designed to work from infancy through the elementary school years, transforming from a rear-facing to a forward-facing seat and ultimately to a booster. Kimminau says it’s “one of the easiest-to-install car seats on the market” thanks to Britax’s patented ClickTight technology.
Real Parent Reviews
“I didn’t realize our infant seat (not Britax) had such low limits until my 15-month-old outgrew it! Wanted a very safe seat that was comfortable for my child but also easy to install for when grandma babysits. Looked into the Click Tight family and fell in love! Installed it in maybe 6 minutes!” -Mick 426
Additional Specs
| Child Guidelines | Rear-facing: 5-50 lbs; forward-facing 5-point harness seat: 22-65 lbs; highback booster: 40-120 lbs |
Best Rotating Convertible Car Seat
Pros:
- Rotates 360 degrees for easy in and out
- High weight limits for all stages
- No need to uninstall to switch from rear- to forward-facing
Cons:
- Bulky, especially front to back when rear-facing
- Short, flimsy crotch buckle can get wedged under your child
Called rotating car seats, these convertible car seats do what their name implies: spin either 180 or 360 degrees. They make it easier to get your little one in and out of the car, especially when they are rear-facing. They also make it easier to rear-face your child—and when something is easier, you’re more likely to do it. Kimminau praises the seat for its “high rear-facing limit of 50 pounds and no-rethread harness for easy adjusting as your child grows;” I love it for how easy it makes getting my wriggly two-year-old in and out of my car daily.
Real Parent Reviews
“I have health problems that affect my back and the joints in my wrists and fingers so it is sometimes difficult for me to strap and buckle her in traditional seats. The fact that this turns towards me is a game changer for us. I’ve been in tears at times trying to unbuckle and being in such pain. This alleviates that!” -Krystal K.
Additional Specs
| Child Guidelines | Rear-facing: 4-50 lbs, 17”-48” tall; forward-facing: 22-65 lbs. 28”-49” tall; booster: 40-120 lbs, 44”-57” tall |
## How We Chose Our Best Convertible Car Seats
We analyzed results from Babylist’s Best Baby Products survey, which polled thousands of Babylist users and asked them to share the baby products they love the most and why.
We utilized insight from the Babylist editorial team, including me, Gear Editor Jen LaBracio, an expert in the baby space for over six years and a mom of two who has written hundreds of baby gear guides and personally researched and tested hundreds of baby products, including convertible car seats.
We spoke with Rebekah Kimminau, CPST and founder of The Baby Gear Consultant and Samantha Taylor, CPST and the voice behind Mama Knows Car Seats. We also interviewed Joe Colella, Director of Child Passenger Safety at the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association and 2020 Child Passenger Safety Hall of Fame Inductee.
We researched information on infant seat safety and reviews from several leading car seat experts, including Car Seats for the Littles and The Car Seat Lady, as well as information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. We also considered the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Ease-of-Use Ratings.
We read customer reviews from hundreds of Babylist users and spoke to parents on our Babylist staff about their real-life product experiences.
How to Choose a Safe Convertible Car Seat
“All car seats sold in the US must meet stringent safety regulations following the requirements set by the NHTSA,” explains Colella. So while certain designs, materials and features can contribute to a seat’s safety, durability, convenience or comfort, “a higher price tag does not necessarily equate to more safety.”
But how does that translate to real-life car seat shopping? How do you know which, if any, safety features to prioritize and which ones to skip?
According to Colella, the best car seat for your child meets these criteria:
Fits your child. The seat you choose should meet your child’s height, weight, age and developmental needs.
Fits your vehicle. The car seat must be correctly installed in the vehicle to perform its functions. “Following car seat installation instructions and vehicle owner’s manual guidance is crucial.”
Used consistently and correctly. You—and anyone else who consistently drives with your child—need to know the ins and outs of your seat and be comfortable using it correctly, says Colella.
These three things—how a car seat fits your child, how easy it is to install it in your car and how easy it is to use day in and day out—are inextricably linked to a car seat’s safety. You can buy a seat with every extra safety feature imaginable, but if it’s impossible to install or doesn’t fit well in your car, the extra bells and whistles don’t matter a bit.
Car seat fit
One of the most common questions we get from parents when they’re researching convertible car seats is around fit, especially since it’s nearly impossible to try out multiple car seats in your vehicle before you decide. Here’s what we recommend:
Measure. This sounds obvious, but we can’t stress just how important this simple step is when you’re researching and comparing car seats. Before committing to a seat, look up the seat’s dimensions, then break out the measuring tape and spend a few minutes in your car. If you have a compact car, pay attention to the seat’s height and depth measurements. If fitting multiple car seats across your back seat is your concern, focus on the car seat’s width measurements. It’s not an exact science, but it’s a good starting point to get you a rough estimate of what fit might look like in your particular vehicle.
Check if the car seat can touch the front seat. A convertible car seat’s front-to-back measurement and the angle required for a proper installation both can affect how a car seat fits into a back seat. A tall, deep seat with fewer recline options can cause an issue if you drive a smaller, more compact vehicle or if you’re tall and need space to push your front seat back. One way to solve this is to research if the particular brand of seat you’re interested in allows for a rear-facing car seat to touch the vehicle seat in front of it. Most manufacturers allow a car seat and a front seat to lightly touch, but some require an inch or two of clearance between the two. (And even within the manufacturers that do allow the seats to touch, there are very specific—and differing—guidelines brand by brand. Here are Graco’s guidelines, for example, versus Clek’s.) You can search and download a manufacturer’s car seat manual to check guidelines around this before you purchase.
Pay attention to recline. Recline does more than just allow your child to ride comfortably in their seat; it also affects how a seat fits in the back seat once it’s installed. In general, a car seat with more recline options will fit a wider range of vehicles. But like all things with car seats, this isn’t always the case—so don’t use this as your only fit predictor.
Convertible car seat safety features
The experts we spoke to recommend considering these safety features when choosing a convertible car seat:
Alert systems: Some car seats have built-in sensors designed to warn the driver of an unsafe situation, such as if a child is accidentally left behind in the car.
Anti-rebound bar: A car seat will move toward the point of impact during a crash. An anti-rebound bar reduces the movement of the seat during a collision, halting the seat’s rebound and causing it to come to a stop sooner than it would have without the bar.
Higher rear-facing height and weight limits: A growing body of research proves riding rear-facing is safer for babies and children than riding in a forward-facing car seat. If possible, always choose a convertible seat that has high rear-facing height and weight limits so you can extend the opportunity to rear-face as long as possible.
Safety indicators: Some car seats come with built-in leveling systems and indicators to signal they’ve been correctly installed.
Side impact protection: “Enhanced side impact protection features can improve child safety in crashes from more directions,” explains Colella. All car seats manufactured after June 30, 2025, will be required to meet side impact performance regulations, but some models already have features built in that have been crash-tested for improved outcomes.
Vehicle fit: Car seats range in size and shape, and so do vehicles and back seats. Be sure the convertible car seat you choose fits properly in your vehicle.
Convertible car seat convenience features
There are also convenience features to think through when shopping for a convertible car seat. Here are the ones you should pay the most attention to:
Convenience extras: Most parents use their convertible car seat for years—which means a lot of getting your kiddo into and out of whichever seat you choose. Think through ease-of-use features like cup holders, buckle holders, a no-rethread harness and cushioning when you’re comparing car seats. Also pay attention to how easy it is (or isn’t) to adjust the harness and clip and unclip the buckles.
Ease of installation: Convertible car seats aren’t designed to be moved around frequently, so most parents buy one for each vehicle and only uninstall their seats if absolutely necessary. Regardless, a seat that’s easier to install will save you time and will increase the chance that the seat is installed correctly. Many car seats can be installed using either LATCH (available in cars made after 2002) or a vehicle’s seat belt. Just be sure you’re still within the weight limits of your car seat’s LATCH restrictions and remember to switch over to a seat belt install once you exceed them.
Fabric: Besides looking for fabric that matches your style, consider its durability. Also consider if you prefer a car seat with removable, washable seat covers or if you’re okay with fabric that’s spot-clean only. If you’re conscious of chemical emissions, you may want to prioritize seats that are GREENGUARD Gold Certified.
Longevity: Most convertible car seats will last until your child is at least four or five years old, but some, called all-in-one car seats, are designed to last almost a decade by converting from a rear-facing seat to a forward-facing seat and ultimately to a booster. There are pros and cons to these types of seats and no “right” choice—it’s all about figuring out what works best for your family.
What You Need to Know About Convertible Car Seats
What is a convertible car seat?
A convertible car seat can be used with children of various sizes and can change from a rear-facing to a forward-facing seat. (The term “convertible” references this rear-to-forward switch.) A convertible seat starts in a rear-facing position for babies and toddlers and is then turned forward-facing as your child gets older. These seats can take you from day one through the preschool years and beyond. Some convertibles even turn into booster seats for school-age kids.
When do you need a convertible car seat?
You’ll need a convertible car seat at some point—but it’s a personal preference as to when.
Some parents use a convertible car seat from day one. Others choose to use an infant car seat initially and then make the switch to a convertible car seat when their little one has reached the seat’s height or weight maximum, usually around their first birthday.
This is because convertible car seats aren’t nearly as portable as infant seats. Unlike infant car seats that are installed into a base and designed to click in and out of your car, convertible seats install directly into your vehicle using either the car’s LATCH system or seat belt and stay there.
There’s also fit to consider. “For most parents, an infant car seat is the right choice for a first car seat,” explains Taylor. “Not all convertible car seats offer the most snug fit or best recline for tiny newborns. There are a few that do, but far and away the newborn fit of an infant seat is more consistent,” she explains.
If you opt for a convertible car seat from day one and your little one frequently rides in more than one vehicle, we recommend purchasing a convertible seat for each car.
When to switch from an infant car seat to a convertible
According to Kimminau, your child can stay in an infant car seat until they outgrow the seat by either the height or weight restrictions. “Or” is what’s important to remember here. It means that even if your child meets the seat’s weight requirement but is over the height requirement, it’s time to make the switch—and vice versa.
“You can switch as early as you want, but you must switch if one limit of the car seat is met,” echoes Taylor. “If the maximum height limit is met OR the maximum weight limit is met, it’s time to swap!”
Also keep in mind that while many infant seats are being marketed to hold children up to two years because of higher weight limits (35 pounds and over), says Kimminau, most children will outgrow their infant seats by height long before they reach the weight limit. Consult your car seat manual for the exact height limits on your particular seat, but a good rule is that if the top of your child’s head is within one inch of the top of the seat’s shell, it’s time to transition. An easy way to check this is to find a board book that is one inch thick and place it on top of your child’s head while they are properly secured in the seat.
What to know about extended rear-facing
Many car seats call out “extended rear-facing” as a benefit of their particular seat. It’s a term you should understand as you shop for a convertible car seat.
“According to the AAP and NHTSA, it's safest for infants and toddlers to ride rear-facing in a car seat for as long as possible,” explains Colella. “This recommendation is based on data showing that rear-facing seats offer better protection in crashes for children from birth through 23 months of age, along with child development and biomechanics considerations.”
When used to describe a feature of a convertible car seat, extended rear-facing refers to a seat that allows a child to maximize the amount of time they can ride rear-facing by offering higher weight and height limits. Car seat experts, the AAP and the NHSTA all agree on the many benefits of extended rear-facing. Whenever possible, it’s recommended to keep your child rear-facing in their convertible car seat until they reach the top height or weight limit allowed by your seat’s manufacturer. But know that your child is safe as long as you use your seat according to the instructions, says Colella.
“Convertible and all-in-one car seats feature weight and height ranges that allow for either rear-facing or forward-facing use. These ranges are determined through extensive manufacturer testing and meet strict safety standards,” explains Colella. “A car seat might allow rear-facing from five to 40 pounds and forward-facing from 30 to 65 pounds, for example. This overlapping range accommodates variations in children's sizes, body proportions and developmental needs, and either mode is safe for that model when used according to manufacturer instructions.”
What to know about LATCH
LATCH is a safety system designed to secure child car seats in vehicles. (LATCH stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children.) The system consists of two lower anchors and a top tether (a strap) that connect the child seat to the vehicle. The lower anchors are attached to the vehicle’s anchor points, usually located in the back seat, while the top tether is attached to a designated anchor point on the back of the vehicle’s seat.
LATCH provides an easier way to install a car seat compared to using a seat belt, and can sometimes help you get a more secure installation. But it’s not always the safer way. (The Car Seat Lady’s LATCH system explainer does a great deep dive into this if you want to learn why.) Using LATCH to install a car seat is also predicated on meeting certain weight limits. Once you exceed those limits, you’ll need to switch over to using your car’s seat belt for installation. Always be sure to consult your car seat manual and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing and using your convertible car seat.
Convertible Car Seat Frequently Asked Questions
Are used car seats safe?
We don’t recommend using a secondhand car seat. That’s because you can never be sure of a car seat’s past. A used convertible car seat may have sustained damage in a crash or from being dropped or may not meet current safety regulations.
If you do select a used car seat, get it from someone you trust. Be sure to look up the seat’s expiration date and research if that particular model has ever been recalled. If the seat is dirty, strictly follow the manufacturer’s rules on how to clean the car seat to maintain its integrity.
Do convertible car seats work with strollers?
This is one of the most popular questions new parents have about convertible car seats and, unfortunately, the answer is generally no. (If you want to see what infant seats work with which strollers, check out Babylist’s Infant Car Seat and Stroller Compatibility guide.)
The only convertible car seat currently on the market that’s compatible with a stroller is the Orbit Baby G5 Toddler Car Seat. There are lightweight travel car seats, but the inconvenient reality is that once your little one outgrows their infant seat, you’ll lose the ability to easily transfer their seat from the car directly onto your stroller.
How many years are convertible car seats good for?
Convertible car seats typically last six to ten years, depending on the specific model and manufacturer’s guidelines. However, it is important to regularly check the seat for signs of wear and tear and replace it if necessary. Additionally, it is recommended to follow the height and weight limits for each stage of the seat to ensure maximum safety for your child.
Do all convertible car seats fit in all cars?
Not all convertible car seats fit in all cars. Before purchasing or registering for a convertible car seat, check the seat’s specifications and compare them to the dimensions and features of your vehicle’s back seat. Some car seats are designed to fit better in certain types of vehicles, such as smaller cars or larger SUVs.
What is the safest spot for a convertible car seat?
According to car seat safety experts, the safest spot for a convertible car seat is in the center of the back seat of a vehicle. This position offers the most protection from side impact crashes and reduces the risk of injury in the event of a collision. But it’s not always possible to install a car seat in the middle seat. If the center position isn’t an option, choose the spot where you can install it tightly using either LATCH or your vehicle’s seat belt, according to the AAP’s car seat safety information guidelines. And always check your specific vehicle’s owner’s manual before installation. The Safe Kids’ Ultimate Car Seat Guide Installation Tips is a great resource for car seat installation.
At what age should a child transition to a booster seat?
According to the AAP, children should transition to a booster seat when they reach the maximum height or weight of their forward-facing car seat. Car seat experts emphasize that children must be mature enough to sit properly in a booster seat before making the switch. (Sitting upright, no leaning, twisting or reaching, etc.) Many children aren’t mature enough to make the switch until at least five years old; most hit this milestone sometime between five and seven.
Jen LaBracio,
Senior Gear Editor, CPST
Jen LaBracio is Babylist’s Senior Gear Editor and a Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST). When she’s not geeking out over car seats, testing out a new high chair or pushing the latest stroller model around her neighborhood, she likes to run, do all things Peloton, listen to podcasts, read and spend time at the beach. In her past life, she worked for over a decade in children’s publishing. She lives outside of Chicago with her husband and their two boys, Will and Ben.
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