Infant "bucket" seat vs. RF convertible seat for 3 month old..

PunkyMonkey · Apr 17, 2011

What is "safer" for an almost 4 month old, 16 pounds, 26 inches (my DD)... an Infant seat or a Convertible seat. For example, I have a Graco SnugRide 35 and RF Recaro ProRide?

I got into an argument with a friend and she said I shouldnt have my baby in a convertible seat and the Infant seat is safer than a convertible seat when they are that little.

I explained to her that people don't even need to buy "Infant" seats... it's just more convenient for the parents to be able to move the baby with the seat vs. taking the baby out of the seat. Most convertible seats RF weight starts at 5 pounds!

And anyways, I would think the Recaro would be safer of course provided (as with any seat) that 1. the seat was installed correctly and 2. the baby was correctly strapped into the seat, properly harnessed, tightened etc because its such a stealthy seat.

Is she right? Is there a "Right" here.. or are they both just as safe as long as they are used properly? Seemed like a stupid argument but it did make me wonder a little bit, I always thought the convertible seats seemed safer but maybe I am wrong. Thoughts?

BigDaddy · Apr 17, 2011

The convertible does eliminate the worry of making sure that the seat is in the base securely, but to answer your question... as long as they fit your DD and are used properly, they are both equally safe.

scoutingbear · Apr 17, 2011

I'm not sure what the lowest harness slots are on that particular seat, but, if they come from at or BELOW the baby's shoulders when the seat is installed, it is just as safe as an infant bucket seat. :thumbsup:

My daughter has only ridden once in a bucket seat...when a friend had to borrow my convertible for one of her foster kiddos. Other than that, she has been in a convertible seat since birth.