We've recently decided to move our 14 month out of an infant car seat and into a convertible car seat. I was looking for recommendations of a good affordable one. We don't want to spend a ton of money on one but we also don't want to be cheap.
Don't use a used car seat. Besides the fact it could have been in an accident and compromised they also have an expiration date.
Updated
Don't use a used car seat. Besides the fact it could have been in an accident and compromised they also have an expiration date.
Look for coupons and sales. I bought Safety 1st car seats on sale and they both went through 2 grand kids. The seats still looked good but I tossed them at the expiration date and did not use for 3rd. They were comfortable and easy to use.
I was under the impression that consignment shops and second had stores no longer sold carseats, as it is not possible to know whether or not they were ever involved in an accident. But I could be wrong.
We just bought ours at Walmart. I think it was the Cosco brand, but sometimes Evenflo and Graco are roughly the same price. I think we spent around $50 or $60 for our carseat. I didn't see the point of spending over $300 for "the best" when these ones are very good quality and also meet all the standards.
This is the one area where you don't skimp. Could you live with yourself if something happened to your child because you got a less expensive car seat? Get on Consumer Reports and check the car seats for safety ratings. Buy the absolute best you can afford.
We bought our son a convertible car seat. You pay more for it but its the last one we have to buy him - I can take it apart so just the booster seat is left. You don't want to spend a lot of money but if you don't have to buy another one in the future, get it.
Check Consumer Reports. They often show a "best buy" among their ratings because they know people aren't always going to pay top dollar. Their ratings will also help you find a good bargain on Craigslist if you know what's safe and sturdy.
Do you have a Freecycle group near you? You have to give something away first before you request an item, but after that you can request stuff you need. Often people would love for their baby items to find a new home and help out another family.
Check children's resale & consignment shops too. We have Children's Orchard - not sure what's around your area. You usually have to go often because some items fly out the door shortly after they are put on display, but you can call ahead and see if they have anything like what you're looking for.
Safety is not something to skimp on.
I agree with the suggestion to check out Consumer Reports.
Consignment or stores with used merchandise is an option but make sure you check any warranty, recalls, and make sure it has not been in an accident, even a minor one.
First you cannot get used carsests. No one should be selling them. I think Grace has a new one. You buy it and you never have to buy another. Think it's about $200-$250. Not sure.
However you never have to buy another. That's what I would do
If you are just moving him out of infant seat, he must not be too big. So you really will get your money's worth out of the Graco. I think it's called Nautilus. Not 100% sure.
