How to Choose the Perfect Car Seat

As a new parent, I quickly realized that there were MANY baby gadgets to consider when shopping for my son. I decided to ask for advice from family and friends concerning items worth spending more money on verses items that were okay to buy second hand. My husband and I were amazed at how many responses reflected the importance of buying a high quality car seat. Boy oh boy am I glad that I listened to my family and friends. Investing in a high-quality car seat has been worth every penny. To help you choose the perfect car seat for your kiddo, I’ve compiled a list of important facts to consider.

I received Diono’s Rainier Convertible + Booster Seat in exchange for this post. Regardless, all opinions are my own. 

Safety – This is one of the most important features when choosing a car seat. Is it worth saving a few extra dollars for a less-safe car seat? You sure don’t want those few extra dollars to be a matter of life or death. Look for things such as a steal frame and body and side impact protection when shopping for a car seat. Be sure to check the car seat’s safety ratings.

Size – Choose a car seat that is the perfect fit for your car. If you know you’re going to have 3 car seats in the back seat, you may want to consider choosing a car seat that is tall and thin verses a car seat that is wide.

Comfort – You want to make sure that your car seat will provide your child with absolute comfort. Comfort can make a difference in how your child behaves while riding in the car.

Installation – There will be a number of occasions when you have to remove and re-install your car seat. You want to make sure that installation isn’t a pain every time you put your car seat in the car.

Durability – Make sure you are getting a car seat that is going to last. If you know you are going to have more than one child, choose a car seat that has a long life. Buying one “more expensive” car seat that can last through various children is less expensive than buying multiple car seats.

Clean-ability – Messes in the car are inevitable. Make sure to choose a car seat that has material that is easy to clean and wash.

Adaptability – Choose a car seat that you are able to use for various stages of your child’s life; a convertible car seat that also converts to a booster is my top choice.

Expiration date – It’s okay to buy a car seat that is second hand. HOWEVER, make sure to check the expiration date on the car seat to make sure it hasn’t expired. Also, when inquiring about a second hand car seat, check to see if it has been in any accidents.

Impressively, Diono’s Rainier Convertible Car Seat/Booster meets every single one of the criteria listed above. I’m not joking when I say that it is the best, most durable car seat we have ever owned! Although it’s a bit more pricey than other car seats ($359), it’s SOOO worth the investment. The steel frame and impact protection makes this car seat’s safety life 12 years! I love how it can grow with my son; we can use it rear facing, forward facing, and as a booster. Because of it’s build, I can easily fit 2-3 car seats in my back seat, if needed.  Not to mention, the seated area provides absolute comfort through memory foam…I wish I had a seat this comfortable! My son loves riding in his Diono’s Rainier Convertible Car Seat – he’s all smiles every time we drive anywhere in the car!

Drive in style and absolute comfort by choosing Diono’s Radian Convertible Car Seat/Booster ($359) for your next car seat. Trust me, you will not be disappointed.

What criteria do you follow when choosing a car seat?