The Car Seat Thread [Archive] - Page 4

kmack

09-05-2006, 07:27 PM

allyray, the lock offs on the britax are not necessary. Your car (unless it's quite old) has a locking seatbelt. Many seatbelts do not fit into the lockoffs because of the angle of the belt. It is perfectly okay and safe not to use them as long as the seat is tightly installed.

did someone tell you that they are not necessary? b/c our seat comes loose every time the lockoff comes undone. i had the seat re-installed by the state police, in the center backseat. they got the lock-off to close this time (BTW they only used the one on the opposite side of where you buckle it in, are you supposed to use both?) but of course a week later it came undone. i glanced back while driving and noticed that DD was tilted to the side in her seat! i was about to get on the highway so i pulled over and tried to re-install it but i couldn't get it tight enough so had to turn around and go home. when DH got home from work we were able to get it in there tightly but it came undone a second time. and the whole seat comes loose when the lock-off opens, not sure if i am doing something wrong? i want to keep it in the center or else i would just do the latch. i have to say, for the amount of money we spent on the marathon it is a major PITA.

Ade

09-05-2006, 07:29 PM

Thanks for the input! magdesilver, thanks for the breakdown. I think I'm going to go with the Boulevard. My car has side impact bags, but DH's doesn't. My sister is giving us a Snap and Go to start with, so I think the Britax will live in DH's car initially, until kid out grows the infant seat. I know all Britax models out perform most other car seats, but what is $50 when it comes to the additional safety of our child.

magdesilver

09-05-2006, 08:03 PM

Ade, that's a good choice, I know you won't regret it! The blvd is a great seat.

kmack it says it on the britax site if you look at britaxusa.com and look under reviews. Are you using a lap or shoulder belt in the middle seat? A lap belt should be fine without the lockoffs, but a shoulder belt is a little tricker because it can cause the belt to tilt to one side. In your manual it should discuss the lockoffs, and with a shoulder belt try just using one side (I can't remember which side, look in the manual and see if it specifies when using a shoulder belt to install RF). Also, do you have anything under the seat like a pool noodle? If so removed it all so maybe the belt will be at a better angle for the lockoffs to stay closed. Install it very tightly upright (I actually put all my preggo weight on the seat, it is very upright) and then using the RF tether, pull tight until it is an appropriate recline. Also, once you have the seat installed tightly, with the lockoffs, pull the shoulder part of the belt all the way out, and putting all of you weight on the seat at the same time, let it retract (it should make a "clicking" sound). That will lock the shoulder belt and it shouldn't move any more. Or if you have a german/european car, look in your manual because some of those cars have alternative locking methods like twisting the belt before you buckle. Hope that helps.

kmack

09-05-2006, 08:20 PM

i am using the shoulder belt, and if i didn't mention before we are doing it RF. i don't have anything under the seat. it sounds like you installed it yourself? i could get the lap belt part pulled tight, but then when i tried to pull the shoulder belt tight i needed another set of hands.

Also, once you have the seat installed tightly, with the lockoffs, pull the shoulder part of the belt all the way out, and putting all of you weight on the seat at the same time, let it retract (it should make a "clicking" sound). That will lock the shoulder belt and it shouldn't move any more.

i'll try this, i did get it to click last time but it didn't seem to have any effect on how tight the seat was in. thanks for your help!

magdesilver

09-05-2006, 08:30 PM

kmack, yes I have installed myself with a shoulder belt (although my everyday car has just a lap belt, so much easier!). Anyhow, try squatting on the seat with your feet on the seat to push it all the way down (loosen the RF tethers all the way so they don't pull on the seat). then thread the belt through and buckle. Then pull the lap belt tight and then, the shoulder belt tight (from the non-buckle side- this should hold the lap belt as tight as you need since they are one piece, kwim?). Then try to close the lockoff on the side of the buckle with your one free hand while you are holding the shoulder belt taught with your other hand. Then pull the shoulder belt all the way out and let it click back in to lock (or if you have another helper, like your DH, that makes it a bit easier!). Hopefully that will give you a nice tight and lasting install! Then pull the RF tether tight until you have a good recline. If none of these work lmk and I will get you in touch with another board that has CPS techs familiar with the MA on it who may have more suggestions to help.

Ade

09-05-2006, 10:36 PM

Okay, two more questions (my DH is laughing at me for obsessing over this as much as I am). After reading several reviews, the biggest negatives I am reading are the height and bulkiness of the Britax and that toddlers can play with (and loosen) the harness latch. Is it really that much bigger than other seats (I was reading some reviews that said that it obstructs half of the back window, can't recline well in FF position, front seats can't be pushed back fully if the seat is behind them and it doesn't fit well on an airplane)? And has anyone had any of the latch issues?

ThreeYell

09-06-2006, 06:18 AM

I have DS's Marathon installed FF in the middle of my Toyota Highlander (mid-size SUV). DS is almost 28 pounds but not yet old enough to climb into the seat by himself so I have to actually place him in the seat. This is getting more and more difficult as he gets bigger. Is there a trick to getting kids in a seat in the middle without destroying mama's back? I have side airbags so I could move him outboard but if I can keep him in the middle without injuring myself I'd like to.

Any ideas?

magdesilver

09-06-2006, 06:46 AM

ThreeYell, I have a hard time too (though my DD is still RF, did you know you can rearface in the Marathon until 33 lbs.? It is much safer!). I don't have side airbags in my car right now, so I will often get into the outboard seat with her and then put her in and buckle her in sitting next to her.

emschwar

09-06-2006, 07:02 AM

Noah's almost 2.5 and he's never once managed to loosen the harness strap. He's played with the latch a little, but never enough to do any harm.

magdesilver

09-06-2006, 07:50 AM

My MA fit fine on the airplane the last time we brought it. You have to have the armrest up, but that was true of our infant seat, too. DD hasn't ever played with or undone the harness in any way. Most harnesses I've seen are similar, so if they figure it out on the britax, they would likely have that issue on any seat, and then you've got to deal with your little monkey, not the seat! :)
My DD will play with the harness adjuster strap, but she just chews on it, she can't loosen or tighten it or anything. Also in RF center position, I don't even see the top of her seat in my RV mirror, and I'm 5'3" tall. If the seat were outboard I do think in RF position we would have a hard time moving the seat back, but ours is center so it isn't an issue. I've never had a problem with the seat in FF position (not DD, but with our nephew in his FF Marathon, when installed behind the driver or passenger).

Hula1974

09-06-2006, 07:54 AM

We just installed the base into our Jeep Liberty. I'm kinda bummed.
I had purchased and returned one a few months ago to test it out in our two cars and it seemed like it would work perfectly. We didn't install it but we set it in there to check the spacing. Wanted to see if it would fit in the middle and kill the front passenger leg room. All seemed fine.
Sooooo, now that we are reading the manual and actually INSTALLING it we hit a snag. The cars each have latch on all 3 back seat positions. Good. However, the manual says not to use the center position if the latch hooks are more than 11 inches apart. Well they are. Even in our Jetta. I guess I should have read more carefully before.
So we installed the base on the passenger side.
But I'm wondering, did anyone else have this problem? I can't imagine those latch hooks being less than 11", that's small.
We are going to a carseat check on Sunday so we'll ask there but for now, I can't ingore the manual.

kmack

09-06-2006, 09:17 AM

magdesilver so you kneel in the carseat, facing the front of the car? i was having a hard time doing this. i am going to print your response and bring it with me out to the car while i try to fix it, LOL.

ade i think the Marathon is huge. i had a graco snugride and then put the marathon in and there was a huge difference. we have it RF so DH couldnt ride in the passenger seat when we had it on the side (he is 6'4). we have since moved it to the center and DH can move the seat back just enough. also i noticed that when you are a passenger in the backseat you are half sitting on the carseat, it is pretty wide - i was worried about someone leaning on it too much and loosening it. i just read about the harness latch issue, i can guarantee that DD will figure that one out in no time. i know others love the marathon but i find it to be a nuisance. i can't even imagine lugging it on a plane!

Hula so you have a total of 6 latch anchors in the back and not 4? we only have 4 so my car manual (nissan altima) says not to use the latch to install in the center. i would think if you had the extra 2 in the center you should be able to use them no problem. if not can you use the lap belt instead?

magdesilver

09-06-2006, 09:42 AM

hula, I'd just install it with the belt in the center, it's not any less safe than LATCH.

kmack, I squat on the seat (feet on the seat) facing the back. I have an suv so there is more room than in a sedan to do it. It obviously helps to have another person do the squatting while you do the buckling if you can, I just find it easier and quicker to do it myself than get DH involved. He gets bored and loses interest pretty quickly on things that are not super easy :rolleyes: .
Front to back, the MA does not take up more room than a typical infant seat, but it is higher up which can be an issue. I haven't personally had any issues with the size of it, but I think for the safety features (like RF tethering and the high weight limits) and ease of use (once you practice a few times) it is a fabulous seat.

Kristen78

09-06-2006, 12:04 PM

my DD has a marathon and its OK. Installing it the 1st time was a breeze. However it doesnt "snap" when you buckle the crotch part in and I hate that! A few times I didnt have it snapped completely in! I have never driven like that but I wish it made an audible click. Maybe mine is defected, who knows!

It does take up alot of room. I have it RF behind the driver's seat in my Subaru Outback and the drivers seat can not be moved back much. Which is OK for me because I am short. But my DH cannt drive it with the seat in that position. So I always drive that car.

magdesilver

09-06-2006, 12:07 PM

Kristen, the crotch buckle on the marathon is designed to make the audible "click" sound when you put in the 2nd side of the buckle. The first side, there is no click, but when you put in the second side, you should hear a click sound so that you know both sides are in. It is designed to do that. If you don't hear the click on the second side, you need to re-check the buckles. If it is not working properly, call Britax. They will probably recommend soaking it in warm water first to make sure there isn't anything like food stuck in there but if it is defective they will send you a new buckle. :)

Ade

09-06-2006, 12:58 PM

magdesilver

09-06-2006, 01:12 PM

Ade, the marathon and the blvd are the same size, height and width wise. They are both on the same seat shell. The blvd has the headwings that extend forward/sideways from the headrest area, but otherwise the seats are the same size. Just want to make sure you have the correct info.

LRL

09-06-2006, 02:01 PM

I have a quick question re: side impact airbags. Reading this thread has made me think about the safety of having a carseat near the doors if there are side impact airbags in a vehicle. This may impact our new car purchase if we cannot but a carseat in any other spot other than center. Both our cars currently have side impact airbags, but DS is still in the center.

Does anyone know if this makes a difference?

magdesilver

09-06-2006, 02:34 PM

side airbags are safe in a vehicle with a carseat outboard. Actually, that is the only way I would feel comfortable with a carseat in the outboard position, is with side impact airbags!
Check here:http://www.car-safety.org/faq.html and look at Q61 for more info and links.

yby1

09-06-2006, 02:51 PM

Thanks for all of the great responses! For all of the safety features, I know Britax is the way to go. And, after reading the negative reviews, I can see why people don't like the Decathlon as it has a push button harness adjuster. If kids can figure out how to lift the velcro and pull on the harness adjuster on the other two models, I imagine just being able to push a button would make it even easier and more of a danger. I am still a little concerned about the size, which is making me think the Marathon might be better than the Boulevard as it is a little smaller. Then again, I'm only 5'5", my nephew is 3.5 and hasn't played with the harness adjuster yet, so I don't know why I'm stressing out about this little details!

I have the Boulevard in our Nissan Sentra for the extra protection, and yes, it's tall and the side wings do obstruct the back side window a little bit, but as long as you can use your side-view mirrors, you should be fine driving. DS hasn't been able to loosen the harness. You just have to get used to having the seat back there. I'm 5'4" and it's working fine for me. :)

AmyS

09-07-2006, 09:47 AM

magdesilver

09-07-2006, 11:43 AM

Amy, you cannot use the LATCH unless there are 6 anchors in your car (2 for each position)AND the manual specifies (for example, I believe the honda accord has 6 anchors but still says no latch in the center). If it was allowed, your car manual would specifically say it is, so since it doesn't, you need to use the belt in the center.

fwgirl

09-07-2006, 12:49 PM

AmyS I don't think you can install with LATCH in the center. We have an 05 TrailBlazer and we had our Peg Perego in the center with the belt. We had it initially installed at the local children's hospital and they told us that was the safest way to do it. It was very easy and secure since the center has a locking shoulder belt. Hope that helps!

Ade we have the Blvd and love it. It's big, but I haven't had any problems with the size. Like yby1 said if you use your mirrors you should be fine. And fwiw I'm 5'2.

Hula1974

09-07-2006, 02:22 PM

I have an 04 Chevy TrailBlazer and I want to install my SnugRide in the center seat. I have 4 LATCH points and I checked the owners manual and it doesn't say yes, you can use the 2 side LATCHes to install center or no, you can't, use the belt. Anyone know?

That was my issue in my cars. They manual says that there are latch points available for all 3 positions in the back seat. But there are only 4 latch points so I assumed they want you to use one from each side to use the center position.
Also, because the manual says not to use a latch point more than once....I assumed that means don't put one seat in the center and the other next to it (since they'd share a latch).

ebsbenhart7

09-07-2006, 04:48 PM

Just FYI
Costco.com
Has Britax for sale.
Roundabouts
Marthons
and
Boulevards

kmack

09-08-2006, 07:25 PM

just coming back to post one more complaint about the marathon...the weather has gotten warmer here so DD has been in shorts the past few days. yesterday i managed to pinch the skin on her upper thigh while i was tightening the harness straps, and today the top of the strap caught the skin on her neck!!:eek: the poor thing screamed like crazy and i felt just awful - especially the neck one since i was looking at her legs thinking i had done it again so i didn't see it fast enough to pull the skin right out. and i am just tightening them like i have always done, tight enough so that only one finger can fit underneath. has this happened to anyone else?? i am just not having much luck with this carseat!

kmack

09-08-2006, 07:41 PM

sorry didnt know how to edit my post to quote this:

... Highly recommended on the baby bargains website by the CPS techs over there...

can you tell me where this website is? i found a windsorspeak one but couldnt find any reviews on car seats.

also, another question for you - when i tether my marathon, the seat tilts to the side. is this okay or am i doing something wrong? i am attaching it to the passenger seat track so it's tilting to the right (this is the spot that the state police tethered it so i just kept it there).

thanks!

emschwar

09-08-2006, 09:04 PM

can you tell me where this website is? i found a windsorspeak one but couldnt find any reviews on car seats.

There's a link on the first page. It's the baby bargains board site. Also, you can go to www.babybargainsbook.com and click on forums, then click on baby bargains, and the car seat thread is in there.

Also, I've never had a problem with the marathon straps pinching Noah's skin. Maybe because boys' shorts are longer? Not a clue, but it's never been a problem for us.

magdesilver

09-08-2006, 09:17 PM

Emily posted where the BBB forums are located. There are a few cps techs who regularly post, they are great and very helpful.
Have you removed the HUGS or harness pads at all? You can remove the HUGS in RF mode, and I had them both removed (set aside, the HUGS must be used in FF mode) because when I initially put DD in the Marathon, she was still pretty small and there just wasn't enough strap room for it all. Well once it started getting very warm here I noticed all these red marks from where the straps were digging into her neck. So, I put the harness pads back on (but not the hugs yet) and voila, problem solved. I've never heard of the pinching problem though, can you just slide the harness pads up by her neck to help with that? It's never been an issue for us. Also it should fit snug at the shoulders but the harness is generally not going to be that tight around the tummy area, that is okay. As long as it is snug at the shoulders like a bra strap it is alright.

ebsbenhart7

09-12-2006, 05:03 PM

I had a few questions I hope someone can help me with.

This is for people with Britax carseats.
If you have two cars, what carseat do you have in each car?

When did you switch to a Britax Con. Carseat?

I am btwn the Decatholon and the Boulevard. Which do you rec and why?

What is the best price you have seen on the Blvd?

junkinmytrunk

10-11-2006, 08:15 AM

(if this has already been posted I apologize - I can't seem to find a thread relevant to my question....)

I currently have the Britax Roundabout for my car. However, DS and I will be doing lots of airline travel in the coming months and he's taken his last flight using our Snugride. Since I plan to tether his carseat to my back on one of those nifty "backpacks" you can buy at One Step Ahead, I'll need something LIGHT -- can anyone make any suggestions?

The Britax is just too heavy for me to carry on my back, with baby, stroller and diaper bag besides. Any ideas are greatly appreciated. Oh, and if you know how much the carseat you are reco'ing costs, even better.

Finally, if there's a better way to handle the caseat, stroller, baby and me getting to the plane other than the "backpack" idea, PLEASE let me know, I'm kinda out of ideas. THANKS ladies!!

abbytfox

10-11-2006, 10:04 AM

We bought a second seat for this exact purpose and now it lives in DH's car just in case. After reading Baby Bargains a million times, we ended up going with a Graco ComfortSport and it worked out really well. I think it was around $100.

I was nervous about it because we also have the Britax Roundabout as our main seat and it is so comfortable for DS. The Graco ComfortSport is a bit more upright and I thought he wouldn't be comfortable riding in it, but he was totally fine and even took naps in it!

DH wore the backpack carrier while we were transporting it to and from the plane and it was really easy for him (plus we had DS and ALL our bags and we were travelling for 3 weeks so we had a ton of stuff) On the plane it is not as wide as the Britax and so it fit in the seat more easily.

The only "problem" (and it wasn't really a problem for us) was that there really wasn't a way to put the seat rear facing. Literally, the space in between the seats won't allow for it. Also, I know its dumb, but I was uncomfortable making the person in front of DS have to sit upright the whole time because the carseat was taking up his recline space (which wasn't an issue because we couldn't fit the seat rear facing anyway!) DS was 7.5 months and sat fine facing forward while he was in the seat. Again, I know its not ideal, but at least having him strapped in made it a lot safer than if we were holding him on takeoff and landing.

Hope this helps! If you have any other questions I'd be happy to try to help!BTW, we bought the seat at BRU.

magdesilver

10-11-2006, 10:11 AM

The lightest weight convertible is the Cosco Scenara, at Walmart and Target for around $40. It can be used rearfacing to 35 lbs, Forward facing to 40. It's a great budget lightweight seat!

Another option instead of putting the carseat on your back is to get a gogo kidz travelmate for your Roundabout for travelling. It turns the carseat into a sort of "stroller" for the airport. You can leave the wheels and handle on to install in the plane, but not in the car. You would still need a stroller at your destination (it just isn't great as a stroller for everyday use), but you could just luggage check it and not worry about it until you arrive to cut down on stuff. Here is a link and picture:
http://gogobabyz.com/products/gogo_kids.html
http://gogobabyz.com/_media/images/Uni_EddieBauer_Davan.jpg

We use this with our Britax Marathon and it's been great!

junkinmytrunk

10-11-2006, 11:07 AM

Ohh great info ladies.

Anyone know how the Cosco compares to the Graco in terms of weight?

magdesilver

10-11-2006, 11:10 AM

Cosco is lighter. It weighs about 7-8 lbs.

junkinmytrunk

10-11-2006, 11:18 AM

Thanks Mag!

scubasam

10-11-2006, 12:02 PM

We wanted a lightweight carseat for travel as well and just about went w/ the Cosco Scenara and then decided on the Graco Comfortsport. The Cosco one is lighter (although not a whole lot IMO) but it seemed like the seat was really hard. I couldn't imagine DS sleeping/sitting in that thing for several hours on a plane. So, we went w/ the Comfortsport and it's been fine carrying it in the airport. It's a heckuva lot lighter than our Triumph! :)

ThreeYell

10-11-2006, 12:52 PM

DS and I fly about every 6 weeks, mostly by ourselves. I've tried everything under the son including buying the Cosco Scenara and the GoGo Kidz for my Marathon. I recommed the GoGo Kidz 1000%! It and my Marathon are my favorite baby products.

The Cosco is light enough to carry easily but I found it hard to install, especially compared to a Britax. The GoGo Kidz attachement is so easy to pull through the airport. I use a backpack for a diaper bag/carry on so I have one hand completely free. I get through the airport almost as easily as I did before lugging a toddler. When we get to our destination, I always feel better having my Britax that I know how to install perfectly.

magdesilver

10-11-2006, 03:21 PM

ThreeYell- did you see the new gogokidz are compatible with a huge number of seats now, including the scenara? I have an older one (like 6 months old...) and it is made for the Marathon and works well, and I agree about knowing the install- that is so important and I love how easy my Marathon installs. But the gogo and scenara would be a pretty great travel combo I think!

ThreeYell

10-11-2006, 03:27 PM

Thanks for reminding me magdesilver! I should be on the GoGo Kidz payroll, I talk that thing up so much! :D I still think that the Marathon is the best seat out there, though, and will continue to travel with it. I did a side-by-side install of my Marathon and my Cosco FF using LATCH which is, IMO, the easiest install for the Cosco. I know some wiggle room is OK but I can get the Marathon so much tighter. For me, the difference is enough to make me take the Marathon everywhere.

Monty

10-11-2006, 03:56 PM

How about the Chicco Key fit infant seat? I'm sold on the Marathon (thanks Magdesilver for the gogokidz item, that is perfect!!!), however I'm looking for a light weight, transportable infant seat and really like the Chicco. Anyone out there have experience with it? Thanks ladies!

Hula1974

10-12-2006, 07:58 AM

Taking a poll, does anyone put their Graco SafeSeat 1 on the front of a shopping cart? I'm getting mixed responses about this. Not sure how to juggle shopping and baby yet. Besides a sling.

mom2amelia

10-13-2006, 08:23 AM

I'm hoping you knowledgable ladies can help me. I went to the Baby Bargains message boards, but got very confused.

My DD is 3 (almost 3.5) and just about 40lbs. She is in a Marathon in my car, which is fine (although her head is slightly over the top, so it's not long before she outgrows that seat too). Anyway, in my mom and DH's car she's in an Evenflo Triumph. She's at the weight limit now, so I have to move her to a different seat. I'd like to move her into a harness booster that converts to belt positioning booster later. Here's my problem, all the harness boosters that I see only harness up to 40lbs and then become belt positioning boosters. She's not old enough yet for just the belt and really I want her in a 5-pt for longer anyway.

Does anyone know if there is a booster that harnesses to higher than 40lbs or do I have to get a Marathon (or similar) for the other 2 cars? I was hoping to get something that was easy to move around b/c I have to leave her carseat at school if she goes on a fieldtrip and I don't drive. It's not essential that it be easy to move, but that would be a bonus.

Ericka_Jarett

10-13-2006, 08:46 AM

Hula - I don't have the SafeSeat 1 but I have a snugride and put it in the front of the cart all the time. I wouldn't say to leave it witout a hand on it most of the time, just in case you get bumped and for your own peace of mind. If you don't like it sitting so that you see his face, it may make you more secure to have him in there sideways instead. I have to do this occassionally because the seat doesn't always fit in the carts.

Jen1098

10-13-2006, 08:53 AM

Taking a poll, does anyone put their Graco SafeSeat 1 on the front of a shopping cart? I'm getting mixed responses about this. Not sure how to juggle shopping and baby yet. Besides a sling.

Personally I would never put the car seat on the front of the cart. IMO it's to danagerous. My mom was a store once and saw the cart tip over with the child in the seat. Luckily the child was okay but how scary.
I put the car seat in the actual cart and just save when I have to do major shopping when I can leave the kids at home.

shortcake

10-13-2006, 10:52 AM

mom2amelia - There are only a few I think - I just got the Sunshine Kids Radian for my DD (got it at Target online so I can return it if it doesn't fit). It's not cheap - $199. That and the Marathon both go up to 65 lbs with harness...not sure if any others do! I'd be interested if anyone has other suggestions since I'm not thrilled with the options I found.

magdesilver

10-13-2006, 12:50 PM

Mom2Amelia,
I was going to suggest the radian as well, or if you really want her harnessed as long as possible, the Regent which harnesses to 80 lbs. (but does not convert to a booster). Maybe you could get the regent for your next used car and then a convertible for the least used car and field trips? The Marathon should be good until the tips of her ears are at the top of the seat, though.

Kanga

10-13-2006, 05:59 PM

How long can a child stay rear facing in a triumph, and what is the weight limit on it for ff? (Sorry! It's a hand me down from a friend so I don't have the user manual)

Also, what's the reasoning behind the expiration date? I'll have to ask said friend when she bought it, but I believe it's about to expire soon. We're on a budget so I'd rather not buy a new seat when this one seems to be alright, but definitely won't budge on safety to save a few bucks. The only reason I've heard is that cars get newer so the seats aren't always accomadated best in them, but we've had the same car since before the seat and won't be buying a new one anytime soon.

ETA - Sorry, I just thought of another one. Dd is at the grandparents tonight and we alternate who drops her off and picks her up. Long story short, SIL couldn't pick her up like she usually does in her car, but said she could drive FIL's pickup and turn off the passenger airbag. Dh wasn't sure and said he'd rather dd not be in the front seat. The only thing I remember hearing about pickups is that you just have to make sure the airbag is turned off, but other than that they're just as safe as a car. Is this correct?

magdesilver

10-13-2006, 08:05 PM

Kanga:
1) The triumph is 30 lbs. RF and 40 lbs. FF, IIRC. 2) It expires at 6 years. This is because the plastic and straps can begin to break down after that. 3) A pickup is not as safe as the backseat of a car even with the airbags off, but it is still reasonably safe, particularly if you use the seat in RF mode.

mom2amelia

10-13-2006, 09:19 PM

shortcake and magdesilver - thanks so much for your replies. I have the Radian on my list. I also discovered the SafeGuard Go Booster today. Do you know anything about that? It can harness up to 60lb, which is appealing, and it's very lightweight which is nice for when I leave it at school. Like I said, the Radian is on my list, but I haven't researched it yet. The Regent is just too big and heavy for my mom's car (it's a Jaguar and has a small backseat, plus she has to move it when they drive other couples). It might work for DHs car though. I think the Cosco Apex65 is the only other seat that harnesses past 40lbs, but it gets mixed reviews.

Kanga

10-14-2006, 07:26 AM

magdesilver

10-14-2006, 07:46 AM

mom2amelia- I'd recommend you post your question on one of these forums, there are carseat techs who frequent there and might have some more recommendations or insight as well, in addition on the baby bargains site you can do an advanced search and find more info or reviews from the techs on the specific seats you are looking at:
Baby Bargains Carseat forum:
http://www.windsorpeak.com/dc/dcboard.php?az=show_topics&forum=13
Carseat.org forums:
http://www.car-seat.org/

Another seat that might be good for your mom's car especially is the safeguard go seat. It is a harness to 60 lbs, booster to 100 lbs, and folds up into a case which might be good for storage if your mom needs to take it out frequently. And the regular safeguard is a nice seat as well.

neenbean

10-24-2006, 08:08 PM

Has anyone tried the Fisher Price Safe Voyage carseat out???

I heard it is made by Britax with a smaller price tag.

We currently have a Graco Comfortsport and liked it a lot, but the styrofoam has cracked on both sides and needs to be replaced ASAP.

We travel a lot (by car and air), so the seat needs to be well cushioned and not weigh a TON. I would like a seat that converts to a booster eventually, preferrably with a weight limit past 40lbs. DD is trim, but tall and I would like a seat to last her until she is seated without a safety seat.

After spending $100 on a seat that needs to be replace in about a year, DH is totally freaked by the price of the Britax seats and will not spend over $200, so I need an alternative.

TIA!

magdesilver

10-24-2006, 08:50 PM

craftgenius

10-25-2006, 03:51 PM

This is the infant carseat I have...the Graco Snugride (Windsor print)...it matches my baby's stroller. I love it...

http://trus.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pTRU1-2996563dt.jpg

And here is the one I bought for the next step/phase...The Graco Comfortsport...

http://trus.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pTRU1-2996648dt.jpg

neenbean

10-25-2006, 09:49 PM

neenbean, do you mean the convertible, the safe voyage deluxe/ex? If so that is a great seat. It is a less-plush version of the britax marathon. It does not have the HUGS or allow for a rearfacing tether, and goes to 55 lbs. (as opposed to 65 of the Marathon), but it is a great seat and well thought-of. If you are looking to save a few $$, I'd definitely go for it. If your comfortsport is less than a year old, I'd also call Graco and alert them- they might send you a replacement seat.
I have no idea if the name is any different, I just copied it from a website??? DD is 19+ months, so no need to do RF, but I am looking for something slightly less than the Britax models but with generally the same quality. Also, the seat cannot have styrofoam. It broke so easily! We bought the seat in Aug 05 and it cracked exactly one year later. I was too busy traveling to complain to the company. We had a problem with the liner to her Graco Snugride and they replaced the liner as soon as a new one was available. I was very happy with their service, I just wish their convertible seats were lined with something more durable than styrofoam. KWIM?

firefly

10-25-2006, 09:55 PM

just thought I'd throw this out there for you all
http://www.safeguardseat.com/http://www.safeguardseat.com/go/images/home_new_04.jpg
it's running 199 +s/h I dont have one but they do intregue me

amurphy

10-26-2006, 06:24 AM

I have a question for you all....DS is 4.5 months old and 27 inches long and 18lbs. He is one inch past the length limit for his Peg Perego infant seat but still two pounds under the weight limit. Do I have to move him into his Britax? He can't quite sit up on his own yet. What do I do when at a restaurant, in a store, etc. He usually sits in his infant seat in these situations.

Thanks in advance for your advice! :D

emschwar

10-26-2006, 06:34 AM

amurphy - more important than his height is how high his head goes on the seat. If he has 1" or more of hard shell above his head in the seat, he's ok. Once there's less than an inch, you'll have to move him up to the convertible seat.

For restaurants and stores, keep the bucket in the trunk for use in those situations, or use a sling.

amurphy

10-26-2006, 07:55 AM

emschwar, he definitely has more than an inch from the top of his head to the top of the infant seat. His head is actually surrounded/protected by the cushion thing. His feet are a bit over the end of the seat but I guess that is less important than where his head is, right?
Thanks for your advice! I appreciate it!

magdesilver

10-26-2006, 09:05 AM

amurphy,
What year is your infant seat? If it was new when you got it, it should have a limit of 22 lbs. and 29 inches. The older seats have limits of 20 lbs. and 26 inches. Emily is right also, that as long as there is an inch of hard shell above their heads they are still safe in the seat as long as they are below the weight limit (which is non-negotiable).

amurphy

10-26-2006, 09:13 AM

We bought the 2005 because we liked the color better than the 2006 colors. In hindsight, that may have been a dumb move! :rolleyes: Oh well. I don't think I could carry DS in the infant seat if he weighed much more than 20 lbs. anyway.

Thanks for your help, magdesilver!

shortcake

10-26-2006, 09:25 AM

amurphy -Yeah don't worry about it. I switched DS at about 20lbs and I was nervous I'd drop him on the stairs in that thing anyway. I do wish I had it for transferring from car to stroller, but we have a 2003 so I didn't have a choice.

neenbean

10-27-2006, 12:18 AM

magdesilver, do you work in the baby products industry? You have an amazing wealth of knowledge and experience with so many products. Thank you for sharing your ideas and information in various threads! Much appreciated. :)

magdesilver

10-27-2006, 06:47 AM

no, just a shopping-obsessed mama :) . It is a dream to open a boutique one day, but that's a long ways away! Thanks!

meggers

10-28-2006, 04:54 PM

I am interested in the Sunshine Kids Radian. Are there any places that carry this car seat in the store? I would like to see it before buying it.

shortcake

10-28-2006, 04:59 PM

There are, meggers. If you go to their web site (http://www.sunshinekidsjp.com/) and click "where to buy," you can see what stores near you carry them. We are loving ours so far!

meggers

10-28-2006, 05:07 PM

Thanks shortcake. I just checked their website and there are no stores near me that sell them. :(

magdesilver

10-28-2006, 05:57 PM

meggers, it is on sale at Target.com right now with free shipping for $199 plus tax in your state. You can return it to any Target store for a full refund, so that might be an option if you want to see/try your DS in it and then decide.
http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/sr=1-1/qid=1162079743/ref=sr_1_1/601-4824840-8792154?ie=UTF8&asin=B000EE3HB6

meggers

10-28-2006, 08:22 PM

magdesilver--Thanks for the info. I will check it out.

emschwar

11-06-2006, 07:28 PM

Get a tissue, then watch this:
Importance of a 5-Point Harness Carseat
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azgBhZfcqaQ

Club924

11-06-2006, 09:15 PM

emschwar, the video is just heartbreaking....i e-mailed the link to all my mommy friends.

Hula1974

11-07-2006, 05:33 AM

I think I'm afraid to watch it....

Question for those who own a Graco SafeSeat 1: We passed the car seat inspection with flying colors and the level indicator is spot on. However, DS's head is always flopping forward. It looks very uncomfortable. His chin is in his chest. If the level indicator wasn't there I'd think for sure it wasn't level. How does everyone elses DC look in it? DS is 8 weeks old.

LucyandRyan

11-07-2006, 06:20 AM

This thread has help so much. After much research, I finally went with the Britax Marathon! My little guy loves it and it was so easy to install.

THANKS Ladies.

That video is an eye opener. So sad.

magdesilver

11-07-2006, 06:21 AM

hula, you can try taking 2 small washcloths and roll them up and put them on either side of your DS's head to help with that for the next few weeks until he has better head control. Do not put anything underneath his head or around the straps (that did not come with your safeseat) as those are not recommended for safety reasons.

emschwar

11-07-2006, 12:57 PM

Here's another good video, about extended RFing. Not as much of a tearjerker as the last one
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRP7ynNI8mI

Hula1974

11-08-2006, 01:27 PM

magdesilver

11-08-2006, 05:53 PM

You can put one in front of his chin, maybe that would help? You can also try to recline it a bit more, there should be a little "wiggle room" for the recline while still being able to be in the "level" zone on the seat. That's probably what I would do first and see how he does. Also maybe take out the newborn headhugger thingy- does he hae a big head that is maybe resting more forward on it? He might have more head room from side to side if you take out the headhugger that comes with the seat.

KRL626

11-08-2006, 06:36 PM

emschwar

11-08-2006, 06:52 PM

Okay now that I have watched that Youtube video I am completely freaked out about malfunctioning seat belts. So my question is: Is it better to have your child not in the center of the car, but using the LATCH or in the center using only the belt to anchor the car seat?

I'm not an expert, but I would think center would be better. Seat belt failure, while possible, is rare. I would think the safety of the middle seat over the side would outweigh the risk of belt failure. Maybe someone else can weigh in on this too.

magdesilver

11-08-2006, 08:27 PM

seat belt failure is very rare, actually. I think the point of the video was that a seat with a tether is what can make a difference- a seat that is attached to the seat in more than one way, like a convertible with a tether (which the booster in the youtube video did not have- although some boosters do have tethers now!). I agree with Emily that a center install with a belt would be preferable to an outboard LATCH install if you can get a nice, tight install with your center belt. Seatbelt failures are incredibly rare, and seatbelts have not been shown to be any less safe than LATCH installations for carseats- they are only there to make it easier to get a tight installation. As has been said previously, most cars do not allow for a center LATCH install but still, the center is acknowledged to be the safest position in an accident.

KRL626

11-09-2006, 04:08 AM

Sorry to be annoying with yet another question: If we can't get a good tight install with the belt in the middle then go ahead with the side? We're going to give it another try but last time we did it, it seemed wobbly in the middle.

Hula1974

11-09-2006, 05:03 AM

We went for our car seat check and asked the police if we could put the seat in the center position. He checked our center seat belt and said it didn't have the locking mechanism, so no. (We couldn't use the latch there because the connections were more than 11" apart).
Just mentioning this because we didn't realize that the center seat belt wouldn't be adequate, we have an '04 Jeep Liberty.

neenbean

11-09-2006, 05:11 AM

Just an update:

We purchased the Evenflo Generations™ Booster Car Seat (http://www.evenflo.com/Homepage/ProductList/tabid/203/navid/1/Default.aspx?productid=40b19250-08c0-4544-87da-f9635d4a833d) for DD this past weekend. She is 19.5 months, 24+lbs, 33+ inches.

So far, I am liking it. DH hates the buckle/chest plate because it is not quite as easy as our Graco's ComfortSport. I am happy as DD likes the seat and it has a top teather with LATCH installation. :)

magdesilver

11-09-2006, 06:15 AM

For the graco, there should be built-in lockoffs to lock the seatbelt nice and tight. Read your manual! And to get a really tight install I've always had to actually sit/kneel on my seat.

lovin'it

11-10-2006, 12:06 AM

I need serious help! I have twin girls and both DH and I are still in college. Which means we can only afford one carseat (instead of buying many until we find the ideal one) and we are in search of a good one.

I was gun-ho set on the Triumph Premier. It looks comfy and has many great reviews. But, after watching the youtube video, I am giving serious thought to the Britax Regent.

My main reason besides the whole safety deal with the booster, is the fact that we would not need to buy anything else until they were past 80 lbs.

The Regent has only two problems...one is the price tag. We would find a way to deal with it. The second and most important is the fact that it is only forward facing. My girls will not be 1 until February.

What would be your recommendation. And if you could recommend a different seat, please go ahead! I am completely ignorant in this department!

Thanks in advance! Emma

magdesilver

11-10-2006, 06:32 AM

lovin'it, the Regent is not really a good choice for you. It is more for older children who can FF. Especially since Rearfacing is so much safer than forward facing. I'd go with the Marathon- it has a 65 lb. weight limit and will get your girls until around 5-6 years old, height wise. At that point, you will be out of college and your girls can transition to a cheaper booster because they will be old enough. Other budget type choices in this range are the Fisher Price Safe Voyage Deluxe (made by Britax, same shell as the Marathon but goes to 55 lbs. instead of 65 lbs. and a little less cushy- most kids outgrow it by height before weight anyhow, so the 10 lbs. doesn't really make a difference). There is also the Sunshine Kids Radian, but I would only do that if your car has LATCH as I've heard/read that it is very difficult to install (particularly rearfacing) with a belt.
For a budget and if you are set on harnessing as long as possible, you could do something like the cosco scenara right now- which rearfaces to 35 lbs. (highest RF limits on the market!). The seats are only $40 each at Walmart and though not as cushy as a Britax they are good seats. Then at around 2-3 years old when your DD's outgrow them you could then move them into a Regent (and maybe by then you'll have more $$ so it won't seem so expensive!). But even moreso than harnessing past 5 or 6 (you really aren't at that point yet to worry about that), rearfacing is SO MUCH SAFER so you want to keep your girls rearfacing for as long as possible. Here are some videos/info on that:
http://cpsafety.com/articles/stayrearfacing.aspx
http://youtube.com/watch?v=kRP7ynNI8mI

The nice thing about the Britax and Sunshine Kids seats is that they allow for tethering in rearfacing position and are the only brands that do, which is an extra measure of stability and connection to your vehicle in an accident.

meggers

11-11-2006, 08:27 PM

We just bought convertible car seats for DS today. He his 9.5 months old now. Does he need to have the 45 degree angle when rear facing, or can he be more upright than that?

magdesilver

11-12-2006, 06:40 AM

meggers- he can be more upright, as long as he has good enough head control. He can pretty much be as upright as you and he are happy with.

gymwidow

11-14-2006, 08:49 AM

Ladies, I just learned today from a friend of mine who's an attorney that she's now handling a case involving a serious injury to a child who was riding in a Britax Marathon. Her firm has hired an expert who says that the Marathon performs more poorly than the other Britax models in accidents. He recommends the Wizard or Boulevard models over the Marathon.

My friend knew that I had basically already settled on the Marathon as the car seat I plan to register for and she wanted me to know this. This is just one opinion, of course, but I thought it was important enough to share. I'll probably register instead for the Decathalon or Boulevard instead.

magdesilver

11-14-2006, 09:27 AM

gymwidow-
I don't see how in an accident there would be any difference in the Marathon, Decathlon, or Boulevard- they are all on the same (Marathon) shell. The only main design difference is that the Boulevard has the true side impact protection wings. Otherwise, except for various features that affect ease of use but not performance, they are all essentially the same seat. The Marathon has been around for a long time and has consistently been proven a top-notch seat when used properly. Remember that it is estimated that 80-90% of seats are not installed and used properly, which obviously can contribute to injury in the event of an accident. I'm stille extremely confident in the safety of my Marathon and know it is installed and used correctly.

mgrace

11-14-2006, 10:52 AM

I'm sure all of you car seat gurus already saw this article, but thought I would post a link to it. Consumer Reports on car seats (http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/babies-kids/child-car-booster-seats/child-car-booster-seats-505/overview/index.htm).

They mentioned that the Evenflo PortAbout 5 infant seat detached from its base in this crash test just above the federal speed threshold. They also mention the Britax Marathon and the Combi Tyro in the article.

magdesilver

11-14-2006, 11:09 AM

FYI: Combi has already specified over a year ago that they recommend seatbelt install over LATCH using the Tyro carseat. In addition, I wonder if the Britax seat in the CR tests were tethered in RF position when tested to the 33 lb. limit? Just curious, as the article doesn't state so. I would guess not, since it is not mentioned and so few seats are able to be tethered RF (Britax and Sunshine Kids are the only 2 brands), although Britax recommends it.

JenniferEC

11-14-2006, 11:57 AM

With the weather changing so often, we're having to adjust the straps on both of our Marathons for coats/no coats. What is the rule about how tight the straps should be? I'm so afraid they aren't getting tight enough and if there was an accident, either one of my kids would come out of the seat. I want them to be comfortable but I'm more worried about safety. I'm sure this info maybe out out there, but I figure one of you car seat gurus would know. TIA!

magdesilver

11-14-2006, 12:21 PM

The straps should be snug on their shoulders, like a bra strap. It is okay on the Marathon if they are a little loose-seeming in the torso area, as long as the shoulders are snug. And FYI, you are supposed to loosen/tighten the straps every single time you use the seat. I don't get to it every time, but I try to remember to loosen them when I take DD out and then re-tighten them when I put her back in, and with the Marathon the best way to tighten is to do a few quick tugs. HTH!

gymwidow

11-14-2006, 01:53 PM

magdesilver, understood. As I said in my post, I know this is just one person's opinion, but I know the attorney involved and trust her judgment in hiring someone who is knowledgable about this topic. I just thought it was information that would be good to pass along. I didn't mean to worry anyone needlessly as I know the Marathon has had consistently high ratings (which is why I had it on my final list). But for anyone who was trying to decide between models, like me, it might be something that could help in a final choice.

kmack

11-14-2006, 02:17 PM

gymwidow re: the marathon case, do you know if the child was FF or RF, and were they in the center? just curious.

mgrace i hadnt seen that article. of course i have a marathon and have been annoyed with it since i got it. i know the safest position is in the center , but the shoulder strap doesnt lock right so i cant get a tight fit in the center so i put the seat on the side using the latch. it's tethered, but that wont help it much if the latch should snap in a crash. of course now that article is making me worry.

[/B]question[/B] for those of you who are RF in a convertible seat, what do you do about the sun shining in DC's eyes? i tried putting up those stupid sun shades but they wont stay stuck. and the sun is always in DD's eyes at some point and she screams her head off - i wish i could get her to wear sunglasses :confused:

neenbean

11-14-2006, 06:40 PM

question for those of you who are RF in a convertible seat, what do you do about the sun shining in DC's eyes? i tried putting up those stupid sun shades but they wont stay stuck. and the sun is always in DD's eyes at some point and she screams her head off - i wish i could get her to wear sunglasses :confused:
We used something similar to this product (http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2304161&cp=&f=Taxonomy%2FTRUS%2F2255957&origkw=sun+shades&kw=sun+shades&parentPage=search): Color Change Sun Shade by: Blue Ridge, sold at BRU under Fisher Price logo. It sticks directly to your window and is less of a hazard than the suction cup shades that are considered dangerous. HTH. :) The kind I purchased needed to be dampened a little bit.

kmack

11-14-2006, 07:23 PM

thanks neenbean, it sounded like a great idea until i read all the reviews! they worked for you? maybe i will just try it anyway b/c i am desperate...a lot of times i end up sticking my hand back there to cover her eyes and one of these days i am going to get in an accident :(

Jane&Andy

11-14-2006, 07:51 PM

I have something like that on my windows - its Eddie Bauer brand sold at Target. He still gets the sun in his face sometimes but unless I black out all windows there is only so much I can do about that.

neenbean

11-15-2006, 04:17 AM

kmack, I used a different brand, maybe Safety First or First Years? Whichever BRU sells in the store. Sorry I can't remember the specifics. We removed them after switching DD to FF because she was touching the shade. I was worried she would peel it off. Yikes! Anyway, I think as long as your child is not grabbing, it is worth a shot. The Eddie Bauer ones at Target may be cheaper, too!

i end up sticking my hand back there to cover her eyes and one of these days i am going to get in an accident
I often remember wishing DD would keep her sunglasses on during those times! :o Now she loves wearing them, but never when she *needs* them. :rolleyes:

Sophia

11-20-2006, 02:25 PM

I want to start looking for a convertible car seat for DD--she's fitting in the Snugride just fine, but it would be good to have a backup for the next few months till she outgrows it. We currently have just the Snugride. I'm considering a Britax but would also consider other brands, especially if we eventually need a secondary for either DH's car or my mom's (I have to go back to work eventually, and she'd be the "nanny.") I'd like DD to be able to use the same convertible as long as possible.

She's small but chunky--currently 14-15 lbs and ~23 inches @ 4 months. She's been around 25% for length and 50% for weight. We don't expect her to be tall (duh), so I'm thinking if we go with a Britax, the Roundabout would be fine.

I'd also like to spend less if possible, assuming I can still get a safe, comfy, quality seat.

TIA

magdesilver

11-20-2006, 03:35 PM

Sophia, Honestly, I think the Roundabout is really not worth the $$ for the years of use. Virtually all children will outgrow their seat by height before weight, and you have no way of knowing if your kid will be proportioned longer in the torso, legs, or whatever. If you want to cut costs but still have a long-term seat, I would absolutely recommend the Fisher Price Safe Voyage. It is made by Britax (sold under the FP name) and is basically a stripped down Marathon. The main differences are:
1. 55 lb weight limit vs. 65 for Marathon (this is likely not a big problem, as even a 95% weight child will not reach 55 lbs before 5 years old - both seats would be outgrown by height first)
2. No rear-facing tether
3. No built-in lock offs (would be an issue if you don't use LATCH and have an older car without locking belts- I don't have latch on my current car and don't use/need the lockoffs on my Marathon right now)
4. Different base with slightly different recline mechanism
5. Latch attachments are standard hooks instead of the Britax connectors.
6. No HUGS for FF

However, it is a great seat and basically a stripped-down Marathon. It is available for $150 shipped at albeebaby.com , which is a great price. Personally, I'd go for that over the Roundabout just for length of usability, but would spring for the Marathon if you can afford it because the plushness and extra features are nice.
HTH!

Sophia

11-20-2006, 05:10 PM

Mag, thanks. I'll look into the FP Safe Voyage as an option.

Rico'sAlice

12-02-2006, 02:58 PM

I am pretty certain we are getting the Britax Blvd and that we will have it by the time the baby comes. I know that it is for 5lbs and up but some parents seem to feel uncomfortable putting them into it at that point.
So I can't really decide if I should get an infant seat or not.

I don't want to debate this point, just trust me that I would not take the infant seat out of the car to use it as a carrier ever. We will not be using a stroller either, so there's no need to get a travel system. I don't see any reason to have to move the seat from base to base b/c my husband has a two-seater van so he can't take the baby and I can't imagine letting anyone else drive aby around.

We're "baby mooning" and I do not plan to have the baby in the car at all until at least 2wk PP. (We're doing a homebirth and the family doc will do a home visit for the PKU later that week)

And if I end up with a really tiny baby or preemie or something I'll probably need to get a bed seat anyway.

Is there some reason I'm missing for why I should get an infant seat?
Have any of you used a convertible seat from birth? How did it go?

magdesilver

12-02-2006, 05:43 PM

Rico'sAlice,
The blvd is fine from birth. I have seen pics with a newborn in it online, I will find them for you and post them. However, I would advise you to have it installed in your car prior to the birth- you never know what will happen, and you want to be prepared should a problem arise and you do end up at the hospital- you can't leave with baby without the seat properly installed. Otherwise, there isn't an issue/problem with skipping the infant seat and going straight to a convertible. ANother option might be the decathlon, as it has an infant insert. Although it doesn't have the TSIP that the boulevard has. The Decathlon, Boulevard and Marathon all have the same shell, but different features.

ETA: Pics of newborns in a blvd:
http://www.car-seat.org/showthread.php?t=8789
http://www.kids-in-the-car.org/dc.html (decathlon pics)

kimthebride

12-03-2006, 08:06 AM

Rico's Alice
We have the Britax Blvd and love it.

I had a bucket seat for convenience from birth, but DS was so long he was out of it by 4 months. Don't recall his weight at that time, but the Blvd has this great adjustable padding so you really can put an infant in there safely and comfortably. He never complained from the 1st time he was in there, and I liked how much more supportive it was than my bucket seat.

If you really plan on never using strollers or the bucket, then a convertible is for you.

As for moving the seat around, its a breeze with the Blvd (and I'd imagine any LATCH carseat). We travel a lot with it, carpool with friends, so ours is always in and out of my and other cars. Such a user-friendly carseat, even if your car breaks down and you need to pop it into mom's car for a few days its a piece of cake.

Though I personally prefer the bucket at first, I can absolutely see and would feel comfortable with putting a newborn in the Blvd from birth (as long as s/he was in the weight range of course). I've been nothing but pleased with this seat, and have been using it now for 14 months.

And ITA with the PP about making sure to get the carseat installed before your due date. I have so many friends who delivered early, and with my son he had issues BFing and lost so much ewight we had to go to the Ped's every 2 days. You never know what will come up, so its good to plan ahead.

Congrats, good luck, and I hope that helps!

Fluffy Bunny

12-03-2006, 05:42 PM

Rico's Alice -

We intended to use the Blvd from the start, but DD was too small for it. She was 7 lbs 2 oz and 19" at birth. The shoulder straps came down from the tops of her ears rather than coming up from below her shoulders. Britax does "allow" the straps to be no more than 1" above the shoulders for rear facing, but we had about 2.5". We wound up getting a Graco Safeseat on the 2nd day home and DD fit much better in it.

With that said, try starting with the blvd. If your child doesn't fit well, you can always get an infant seat. Since you're planning a home birth, you can even test the size of the blvd without the child in the car.

Mommy2ml

12-04-2006, 08:32 PM

1. I would think of when you're due...

Let me explain:

My DD was born in JAnuary. Freezing cold around here then. Using snow suits, jackets, etc or anything bulky like that can be dangerous if in an accident in any car seat. You can get covers for the infant seats that are insulated, weather-resistant and warm that are safe to use that would keep baby warm thru the winter going from house to car, car to wherever you're headed, etc.

2. We tried going straight to a convertible seat with my DD... for on the way home from the hospital anyway... I was so scared after seeing how poor the fit was with her that I sent my DH out a couple of days later for an infant seat. She was flopping all over the place and the harness would not tighten enough without the chest clip touching both her neck and the buckle :P (she was 6lbs 10oz, 19" long) She fit securely in the bucket.

Now I HAVE known peoplewho havedone it.... with 9-10lb babies, 21+ inches long, etc.... so it's do-able sometimes... but still I would not risk it again... when my DS was born we just used the same infant seat we had gotten for DD and it still works great.

just my experience... HTH

kmack

12-05-2006, 04:50 AM

neenbean thanks for the recommendation - i ended up buying the eddie bauer ones at target for $5. they are staying on so far, but i think a little sun still gets through so she still cries a little. i try to put her sunglasses on but she doesnt keep them on for very long!

rear facing tether?:

we need to buy a seat for our second car and i was all set to buy the graco comfort sport or the cosco scenera but i just read that they cant be tethered rear-facing. i really like this feature on our britax marathon but dont really want to spend more than $100.

is this feature really worth it, and if so, does anyone have any recommendations for a moderate-priced convertible seat that has it? thanks!

magdesilver

12-05-2006, 06:33 AM

kmack- only Britax and Sunshine Kids Radian have the RF Tether, unfortunately. It is a great feature, but rest assured that the scenara (which I'd recommend over the CS for a second car, it will last longer as it has a taller seatback/slots) is still perfectly safe without it- it even has a higher RF weight limit than Britax (the highest on the market- 35 lbs.). Another option if you really really want it is to get a discounted Roundabout- but they are running about $170 for the cheap colors :rolleyes: . But, you'd still have the RF tether, same height limit RF as your Marathon, cushy and comfy like your Marathon, etc. And you could use it as your primary seat for if/when you have #2 until your DD outgrows her Marathon, and then possibly pass that one down.

Rico'sAlice

12-05-2006, 07:02 AM

Thank you all.
So, it seems I won't really be able to know for sure if it will work or not until the baby gets here. :p
I understand it, but it's just frustrating that it is rated for 5lbs when a baby that weight is pretty much guaranteed to be too short...

On one hand I hate to get more stuff than I need, but on the other hand I have a couple of well-off relatives that want to buy stuff for us and car seats are basically the only item I want that is carried by major retailers like BRU. It seems everything else I want is all from some small European craft shop or WAHM-made stuff :rolleyes: ) So maybe I should go ahead and ask for an infant seat and then return it in box unopened if the convertible proves workable.
Argh. I don't know why I find it so difficult to decide about the "material" things. All the "hard" stuff- birthing, circ, vax, sleeping, feeding, etc. DH and I knew what we wanted to do right away. But choosing stuff to buy is driving me nuts!
Anyway, thanks again.

LeslieR

12-05-2006, 07:04 AM

I'm sure this has been addressed before, but I don't have time to go through the whole thread. Sorry!:o When do we need to move the straps up to the next slot? I'm not sure which slot we're at now, but it's been the same slot since we installed the seats last year. I know he's grown a ton since then, but I'm pretty sure the slot is still above his shoulders... TIA!

LeslieR

12-05-2006, 07:07 AM

EJH

12-05-2006, 07:13 AM

Good question Leslie. Our hospital wanted to see we had a carseat, so we brought it in and strapped her in and walked out with her, they didn't check on installation. I'd expected them to...

That said, if we were to have another child we would have used the Britax convertible from day 1. DD hated, hated her snugride. She rode in it for 2 months and every car ride was traumatizingly loud. :rolleyes:

magdesilver

12-05-2006, 08:07 AM

Leslie,
For rear facing the straps need to be at or below his shoulders (in the shell, not the cover). For forward facing, at or above. My DD was in her Marathon a looooong time before we moved the harness up to the next slots.

Regarding convertibles and the hospital, I'd discuss it with the ped and see what the hospital says. Worst case scenario, you could borrow an infant seat for just the ride home, although that would be a big PITA when it's the stupid hospital policy that is wrong!

LeslieR

12-05-2006, 08:26 AM

Oh crap. He is still rear facing. So, if the straps are above his shoulders, then we should move it, is that right?

Erin, I'm thinking the same thing, which is why I asked, I guess. DS didn't hate his bucket at all, but if it's possible to skip it and just go straight to a convertible, we may just do that.

Kanga

12-05-2006, 09:03 AM

EJH - I think it really depends on the hospital. They had us bring up our carseat to our room to make sure we had one, but nothing was said about it needing to be a bucket (we had a snug ride, so I don't know if they would have said anything if we brought up a convertible or not). Then we were wheeled down to the parking lot where dh drove the car up, but they didn't check for installation.

I would really haggle with them. I don't think they can really not let you leave because you aren't doing anything illegal, provided the straps hit at the right place, proper installation, etc.

magdesilver

12-05-2006, 10:09 AM

Leslie, yes you need to move the straps so they are at, or below, his shoulders. This will prevent him moving up in the seat in the event of an impact while rearfacing. :)

kmack

12-06-2006, 12:54 PM

thanks magdesilver but now i am confused...

It is a great feature, but rest assured that the scenara (which I'd recommend over the CS for a second car

isnt CS the cosco scenara?

emschwar

12-06-2006, 01:14 PM

But, you'd still have the RF tether, same height limit RF as your Marathon, cushy and comfy like your Marathon, etc. And you could use it as your primary seat for if/when you have #2 until your DD outgrows her Marathon, and then possibly pass that one down.

Did you mean weight limit? Because the marathon and roundabout have different height limits.

magdesilver

12-06-2006, 01:21 PM

Emily- yes, I meant weight limit :) just a typo!

magdesilver

12-06-2006, 01:21 PM

kmack, in that post I meant CS= Comfort Sport. Sorry for the mix-up!

emschwar

12-06-2006, 01:22 PM

Emily- yes, I meant weight limit :) just a typo!

I do it all the time. Just wanted to clarify for information seekers. Darn those words for being the same except the first letter! ;)

wine_o_girlie

12-06-2006, 02:23 PM

I just caught the discussion about using the Boulevard from birth. This doesn't apply to me-but, I'm curious how do hospitals handle this? I know for sure that our hospital will not let you leave with your baby if you do not have a bucket seat. Perhaps things have changed since we had DS? Will they follow you down to your car to make sure you have a seat installed?

Hmm, this is really interesting. We are going to use a Britax Decathalon from birth. If a carseat is "legal" (not sure of the right terminology) to use from 5 pounds and up, how could a hospital stop you from using it? I don't understand how they would have that power. You can believe I would be raising holy hell about that and we will be leaving in the Britax.

kimthebride

12-06-2006, 03:38 PM

Using a Convertible To Leave the Hospital
When we left the hospital, we had to have the base installed and bring the bucket up to the room. I put DS in, then the nurse popped it on top of the rolling bassinet.
The nurse escorted us out (pushing the baby), then ensured our base was installed and that we clicked the bucket in properly.

I'd simply ask during your hospital tour how they handle it. Most likely the nurse will roll the baby in the bassinet to the car, then ensure the convertible is installed and watch you put DC into the seat.

LRL

12-06-2006, 04:16 PM

wine o girlie- At our hospital, they made us bring the seat up to the room to show us how to use it. But then DS had to be taken out and put in my arms while they wheeled me downstairs. They didn't check the base or anything. I guess al hospitals (maybe nurses?) handle discharge differently. I can't imagine they would have given us any trouble had we not had a bucket seat.

babylove

12-18-2006, 05:10 AM

We are taking DS to Florida in February. He will be just about 6 mo old and still using the infant carseat (we have the Graco SafeSeat). We learned that we can reserve a rental car with a rear-facing carseat (infant seat or convertible). Does anyone have an opinion about whether this is a good option over bringing our own infant seat? Let me just add that I'm really uncomfortable with bringing our own infant carseat b/c we won't have a base with us and I don't feel confident in safely securing the carrier in the seat. I don't think it is safe. TIA!

magdesilver

12-18-2006, 06:38 AM

babylove,
I'd really advise against using a seat from a rental company. You have no idea what the seat has been through, it could be dirty, and the rental company does not guarantee that you will get one- I've heard many many stories of people going to get their car and having "reserved" a seat and there aren't any and then they are stuck and have to go out and buy a new one at Walmart. Also, the people who work there are not car seat experts- usually they are just some joe schmo worker. I would not ever trust them to install a seat for me.
You have 2 options, and they both include taking the safeseat!!
1) take the safeseat without the base- practice installing it in your car, it really is not difficult with a little practice to get it in nice and tight. The rental will be a newer car with locking seatbelts anyhow.
2) take the safeseat with the base- you can check the base as luggage (the airline will bag it for you) and it will be waiting at your destination for you to install in the car. This is what I would recommend, because I find it easier personally to install the base once and not have to constantly deal with the seatbelt- though both are totally safe options- a properly installed seat without the base is really just as safe as the seat installed properly without the base.
You want your child as safe as possible at all times- I would personally never trust a grody old seat from a rental company, you just have no idea where it's been, if it's been recalled, it could be expired, and you won't have any idea how to use it. Practice and read your safeseat's manual- the more you know about your own seat, the better!

ThreeYell

12-18-2006, 07:12 AM

babylove - I'd read the fine print on the rental company website very carefully. IIRC from a discussion on a local listserve, rental car companies will not install the seat for you because of liability and I wouldn't trust them to always inclued the manual with the seat they give you. Trying to learn how to install a new kind of seat in a new kind of car after a day of air travel sounds like a recipe for disaster, IMO.

I agree with magdesilver that the best option is to practice the base-less install before you go. Graco would not tell you how to do it if it weren't a safe option. If you do check the base, though, don't count on getting it bagged by the airline. Many airlines have stopped providing bags.

DianeCourt

12-18-2006, 07:25 AM

Does anybody have the Britax Decathlon? If so, do you have issues tightening & loosening the straps? This is a super expensive seat that we got for my baby shower, and we're SO disappointed with it. I'm not strong enough to deal with the straps - DH has to do it. I feel like it shouldn't be that hard. Britax has a push-button style release on this model and it stinks. It's so hard to operate that we feel like we can't tighten the straps enough on DD. Do you think if I contacted them that they would help us out either by replacing the seat or trading it for a Marathon? We have a Marathon in my car and it's SO easy to use.

mommydearest

12-18-2006, 07:42 AM

Lots of people have had issues with the Decathalon in the beginning, but it loosens up over time. You might want to call Britax's customer service to get suggestions.

aligirl

12-18-2006, 10:23 AM

My decathlon is a bit tight too but it has definitely loosened up over time. It's definitely not as easy as the Roundabout we have.

DianeCourt

12-18-2006, 11:03 AM

I feel like our Decathlon straps have stayed the same or even gotten a bit worse with time. I went to the Britax website and they have a FAQ section where my concern is at least acknowledged, but not really addressed. It just says that the Decathlon straps will be tighter than other models, basically, and to contact them for tips.

It looks like they're admitting it's a design flaw and, if you don't like it, tough. I still might call customer service to complain. Ours is RIDICULOUS. :mad:

magdesilver

12-18-2006, 11:40 AM

DianeCourt

12-19-2006, 05:49 AM

Diane,
This is a common issue with the decathlons. If yours is really very hard or won't tighten all the way, I'd contact Britax and see if they can either replace the seat or adjuster. Where was it bought? You might be able to take it back to the store if it was bought locally as well, if you have the receipt or if it was on your registry.

It's so hard that I can't release the straps by myself. DH has to be with me to do it, and even he has to muscle them around to release. That's not right. His biggest complaint is that he can't get them as tight as he likes.

I received the seat as a shower gift back in September 2005. We actually started using the seat in March 2006 and that's when I mailed my registration cards in to Britax. So when does my warranty start? We don't have the box anymore, either, so I'm sure trying to exchange it at BRU is out of the question.

Heidi9771

12-19-2006, 06:08 AM

For those of you who have the Graco Safeseat, what was the reason you chose this seat? Did it live up to your expectations? I was reading about it in Baby Bargains, but it had yet to debut essentially, and there wasn't a lot of info on it.

magdesilver

12-19-2006, 06:35 AM

Diane,
The warranty begins at time of purchase. But that is not an issue- Britax generally has great customer service and if it is really THAT difficult- which it sounds like it is- then it warrants a call to Britax to try and get the seat repaired or replaced. If the CS person at Britax does not address your concerns, ask to speak to a supervisor. They should repair or replace your seat for you, which could include sending you a part to replace, or having you send your seat in to them to repair (postage paid).

Heidi, the safeseat is a good seat and what's "new" about it is that it has the highest limits of any of the currently available infant seats- 30 lbs. It claims to fit over 90% of all 1 year olds so it has a longer life span than the other infant seats out now. It is easy to install properly as well. The new version of BB will be out in March/April and they are planning on doing reviews and write-ups of all the new seats, if you have the time to wait :).
If not, you can search at the baby bargains message boards for reviews, there are a lot of them over there.

Heidi9771

12-19-2006, 07:34 AM

Heidi, the safeseat is a good seat and what's "new" about it is that it has the highest limits of any of the currently available infant seats- 30 lbs. It claims to fit over 90% of all 1 year olds so it has a longer life span than the other infant seats out now. It is easy to install properly as well. The new version of BB will be out in March/April and they are planning on doing reviews and write-ups of all the new seats, if you have the time to wait :).
If not, you can search at the baby bargains message boards for reviews, there are a lot of them over there.

Thanks. I was reading the BB reviews on it (love that site!) It seems like a good choice.

meggers

12-19-2006, 08:32 AM

Heidi9771--We bought the SafeSeat because we figured DS would be at the top of the percentiles and we didn't want to spend money on an infant seat that would only last a few months. I am so glad we bought the SafeSeat. It is super easy to install. DS is 11 months old and still fits in it.

DianeCourt

12-19-2006, 06:22 PM

Thanks for talking me through this Decathlon thing before I call Britax. It helps to think through what I want them to do before I actually make the call!

I wish the SafeSeat was around when I had DD. She exceeded the height limit on a 2005 Peg Perego Primo Viaggio at only 4 months old. We could have gotten several more months out of the SafeSeat for sure!

magdesilver

12-19-2006, 06:31 PM

Diane, you can still use the PP seat safely if she has 1" or more of hard shell above her head, even if she is above their recommended height limit. That is the "rule" for infant seats- the manufacturers give height limits becuase they are easy to follow but some kids have long legs and a short torso- like my DD. She was 32" and still able to fit in her infant seat at almost 15 months old because she has longer legs but still had over an inch of shell above her head. Just in case you do have to send back the decathlon, you might be able to go back to the infant seat while you are without your Britax!
Also, if your seat is a newer PP infant seat it should go to 29 inches and 22 lbs. Is your 4 month old already 29 inches tall? That is one tall baby!:)

DianeCourt

12-19-2006, 07:33 PM

No, we have the old style PP Primo Viaggio. Right after she was born they released the 2006 model with the increased height restriction. :rolleyes: At 4 months she was 27.5 inches with a pretty long torso. Her head was close to even with the top of the shell, so we moved her. It was a sad day when I had to put away that infant seat!

jarm

12-26-2006, 08:38 PM

I apologize if this has already been answered. We're in the market for an Evenflo Triumph, but what is the difference between the 5, the deluxe and the LX? The Triumph 5 got the best rating from CR, but if there's little to no difference in the other Triumphs, then we'll consider those. Does anyone know? TIA!

DianeCourt

12-27-2006, 10:11 AM

Update: Our stupid Decathlon finally broke on Christmas Day. The push button release unit completely separated from the seat frame because we had to pull on it so hard to tighten the straps. I finally contacted Britax customer service after being closed for the holiday. They said that our only option is to have the seat repaired at their cost. It's been redesigned for this very issue. I'm awaiting the prepaid UPS shipping label and they said it will take 2 weeks. What a pain. :rolleyes:

magdesilver

12-27-2006, 01:54 PM

Diane I'm sorry to hear your decathlon broke! Do you have a backup seat to use? If not, I'd get a cosco scenara- they are about $40 at Walmart, high rearfacing limit, and lightweight so you can use it for a second seat or travel seat in the future. I hope Britax repairs it so it's easy to use :) .

mommydearest

12-27-2006, 02:19 PM

DianeCourt- When was yours manufactured?

Kanga

12-27-2006, 08:09 PM

DianeCourt - So now you're out a carseat for 2 weeks plus what it takes them to fix it and get it back to you?? I'd be mad too!

I apologize if this has already been answered. We're in the market for an Evenflo Triumph, but what is the difference between the 5, the deluxe and the LX? The Triumph 5 got the best rating from CR, but if there's little to no difference in the other Triumphs, then we'll consider those. Does anyone know? TIA!

I've been wondering the same thing...there's also a Evenflo Triumph Premier. So confusing!

DianeCourt

12-28-2006, 08:03 AM

Our Decathlon was manufactured on 3/28/05. I don't know when they did the redesign.

I have a Marathon in my car, so we'll move that over to DH's car (our primary transportation) until we get the Decathlon back. It's not a huge ordeal, but we really like having carseats in both cars so we don't have to worry about moving a seat back & forth.

I wish we just had two Marathons. We LOVE our Marathon! Seriously, if anybody is considering forking over the extra $$ for the Decathlon, don't do it. Get the Marathon and you'll be very satisfied.

Bloomwood

12-28-2006, 08:46 AM

I wish we just had two Marathons. We LOVE our Marathon! Seriously, if anybody is considering forking over the extra $$ for the Decathlon, don't do it. Get the Marathon and you'll be very satisfied.

Thank you so much for saying this. My friend just got the Decathalon and has been raving. I was second guessing my Marathon decision - I just ordered it this week. I'll be curious to see if she has the same issues you are having. I'm sorry you have to deal with all that, btw.

Sophia

12-29-2006, 12:20 PM

Does anyone have any info or opinions on the Evenflo Titan Deluxe? I went to Target earlier with plans to get the Evenflo Triumph, which was out of stock, and I saw the Titan. It looked nice & comfy, and I like that it's narrower than the Triumph, but I hadn't heard anything about it.

Kanga

12-29-2006, 12:30 PM

We're in the market for an Evenflo Triumph, but what is the difference between the 5, the deluxe and the LX? The Triumph 5 got the best rating from CR, but if there's little to no difference in the other Triumphs, then we'll consider those. Does anyone know? TIA!

I just asked this on baby bargains message board. The general consensus was that it was a good seat, but there's better out there for about the same price. The fisher price safe voyage DX (150 at albeebaby right now) has a higher rfing weight limit and a higher weight limit FFing as well (to allow being harnessed longer). Also, the FPSV and the cosco scenera ($40 at walmart) have a taller shell/top straps so it won't be outgrown as fast.

spps

01-01-2007, 08:23 PM

What convertible carseats have a tall seat back? DS is currently almost 19 months, 32.5 inches tall and weighs only 21.5 lbs. He is currently rear-facing in a roundabout and his head is nearing the top of the shell as he has a long torso and short legs. I would like to keep him rear-facing longer, but clearly the roundabout will not work for that much longer. I would love to find a carseat with a high rear-facing limit, that can be tethered rear-facing that also has a tall seatback. Any recs?

emschwar

01-01-2007, 08:29 PM

The marathon is a good 3 or 4 inches taller than the roundabout, I believe.

spps

01-01-2007, 08:33 PM

Thanks emschwar. Do you know of any less expensive taller options? DH doesn't really want to shell out that kind of $$ for another carseat...

ETA: Does anyone has any feedback on the Fisher Price Safe Voyage? I know it is made by Britax, but how does it compare in size and use to their own carseats?

magdesilver

01-02-2007, 06:55 AM

spps the FPSV is a great seat. It is made by Britax and is basically a stripped down Marathon. It is missing some of the plushness and extras of the Marathon and cannot be tethered rearfacing (only Britax seats allow that), but it is a great buy for the money- if you can't spend the $$ on a Britax, it is really just about the next best thing and will last you as long as the Marathon would both rear- and forward-facing (it does have a slightly lower weight limit; 55 lbs. vs 65 lbs.; but very few kids outgrow the Marathon by weight anyhow, virtually all who outgrow it do so by height).
If you do a search on "fisher price safe voyage", it has been discussed in this thread before. HTH!

Kanga

01-02-2007, 12:18 PM

spps - I was going to go with the evenflo triumph, but the baby bargains people all convinced me to go with the FPSV instead since it's much taller. I guess with some of the others, kids outgrow it in height before they are 40lbs, which is the minimum for a booster. We haven't received it yet, so I don't have anything to say as far as ease of operating or anything like that.

Sophia

01-02-2007, 12:31 PM

I was planning to get the Evenflo Triumph but am now thisclose to ordering the FPSV instead. Has anyone seen it (FPSV) in person? How does the fabric cover feel? Is it metallic like the Graco SafeSeat? Heat is a real concern for me where I live, and I don't want DD burning herself on the cover. I've tried several places and nobody carries it near me, and I hate buying things like this sight unseen, but it seems like such a great deal compared to what's available locally.

LRL

01-02-2007, 04:27 PM

I have a couple of questions re: Rearfacing limits. We had DS in an infant "bucket" seat up until he reached within one inch of the shell (he was under the weight limit, DS is really long). We then switched him out to Roundabout seats. He is now quickly approaching one inch of the Roundabout shell RF, and I am concerned that I might have to buy new seats. Does anyone know if the same rule applies to Britax seats? If the same rule applies, when we get ready to face him forward (not for a long time though) can the Roundabouts still be used for forward facing if his head approaches the edge?

emschwar

01-02-2007, 04:30 PM

LRL

01-02-2007, 04:48 PM

emschwar- Thanks so much! One less thing to worry about for a little while! ;)

Kanga

01-02-2007, 07:26 PM

I was planning to get the Evenflo Triumph but am now thisclose to ordering the FPSV instead. Has anyone seen it (FPSV) in person? How does the fabric cover feel?

Nobody around here carries it either. Dh is going to find out if he can get through his work, but if not we're ordering through albeebaby.com....I'll let you know when we get it. It doesn't look metallic to me though in the pics.

emschwar

01-02-2007, 07:34 PM

I've seen it fpsv at baby depot, though it was a while ago.

Sophia

01-03-2007, 07:43 AM

Nobody around here carries it either. Dh is going to find out if he can get through his work, but if not we're ordering through albeebaby.com....I'll let you know when we get it. It doesn't look metallic to me though in the pics.

If I don't see/get one before you, I'd love to hear how the fabric feels. If I can't find it locally I'm ordering through Albee Baby, too.

I've seen it fpsv at baby depot, though it was a while ago.

I'll check Baby Depot. I hardly ever go there because of their crappy return policy, but I saw recently on BB that they're changed their policy to allow returns.

allyray231

01-03-2007, 09:59 AM

OK ladies. Need some help. We have moved and are curretly staying with my parents and would like to get a car seat for their car. We have a marathon that I love for our car, but I don't want to spend that much and I need something not as big for their car. I have looked at the Evenflo's and the now I see the mention of the FPSV. Thoughts?? DS is 18 months

TIA!

klav

01-03-2007, 10:41 AM

subscribing to read later

magdesilver

01-03-2007, 10:46 AM

ally, if the Marathon is too big, then the FPSV won't work because it is pretty much a stripped-down Marathon so it would be the same size. I'd go with the Cosco Scenara- $40 at Walmart, lightweight, and a bit smaller than the Marathon. Not as plush, but has a high rearfacing limit (35 lbs, more than the Marathon!) and is a great budget/travel/second seat.

Info on the Fisher Price Safe Voyage carseat:
http://www.windsorpeak.com/dc/dcboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=13&topic_id=43551&mesg_id=43551&page=&topic_page=1
http://www.windsorpeak.com/dc/dcboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=13&topic_id=53395&mesg_id=53395&listing_type=search
http://www.epinions.com/content_261928619652

mgrace

01-03-2007, 11:01 AM

Albee Baby has the Roundabout (in certain colors) on sale for $179. click me (http://www.specialtybaby.com/britax.html).

Sandie78

01-04-2007, 10:56 AM

FYI: There is going to be a story about carseats on NBC news tonight. (1/4/07)

klav

01-04-2007, 11:32 AM

cool will have to tape it just incase I for some reason miss it!!

emschwar

01-04-2007, 11:43 AM

Thanks for the heads up! I'll have to watch it.

Kanga

01-04-2007, 03:25 PM

Ok, so dh can't get the FPSV through his work so it leaves me with these two to pick from. And since it seems I can't make a decision about something as simple as the color of a carseat:rolleyes: , I'm here for your opinions. Which one would (did) you get.

Circus Red
http://www.specialtybaby.com/fiprsavodeco2.html

Black
http://www.specialtybaby.com/fiprsavodeco1.html

klav

01-04-2007, 05:08 PM

ok so watched it on the news at 6 about the car seats it's talking aboout the infant seat and nothing else.
they were talking about the seats not being tested in side impact. and most failing the snugride by graco was one of the ones mentioned that was fine the others tha they said had issues were the evenflo discovery, eddie B. comfort, graco safe seat and Britax comander.
I don't know if it's suppose to be on again later or if there will be more information but this is what was said so far.

Sandie78

01-04-2007, 05:11 PM

I think it was the Britax Companion, not Comander. :)

emschwar

01-04-2007, 05:13 PM

Here's links : http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/babies-kids/child-car-booster-seats/car-seats-2-07/overview/0207_seats_ov.htm
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16473196/

jarm

01-04-2007, 07:04 PM

Does anyone have or has anyone ever seen the purple Britax Roundabout? Is it awful or nice? It seems like it would be this shiny Barney purple...thinking about ordering one.

Sophia

01-04-2007, 08:49 PM

Ok, so dh can't get the FPSV through his work so it leaves me with these two to pick from. And since I can't make a decision about something as simple as the color of a carseat, I'm here for your opinions. Which one would (did) you get.

Circus Red
http://www.specialtybaby.com/fiprsavodeco2.html

Black
http://www.specialtybaby.com/fiprsavodeco1.html

I'm ordering the black/grey one through albeebaby.com (I called Baby Depot today and they don't carry it, so I'm just biting the bullet and ordering it--the reviews I've seen online (thanks, magdesilver) look good). DH & I both have green vehicles, and the thought of a red carseat in a green vehicle bugs us.

summer girl

01-04-2007, 10:04 PM

Does anybody know any saftey information on the Recaro Young Sport car seat? I have tried to research it but am not finding safety reviews, just consumer reviews. Any input would be helpful. Thanks.

kmack

01-05-2007, 06:21 AM

they just did a bit on the early show about carseats, it must be the same one that was on nbc last nigt.

car seat safety (http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/01/05/earlyshow/living/parenting/main2332600.shtml)

basically, a bunch of seats did not pass the consumer reports tests:
chicco keyfit
peg perego primo viaggio SIP
compass 1410
evenflo embrace
britax companion
graco safeseat
safety 1st designer
combi centre

consumer reports is recommending that these 2 be recalled:
- evenflo discovery b/c it failed to comply with the govt crash test standards
- eddie bauer comfort - b/c none of the techs could install it securely in any vehicle they tried

these were the only 2 that passed:
- baby trend flex-loc adjustable back
- graco snugride with EPS

they tested the seats in crashes of 35 mph...scary what could happen at higher speeds! and the guy mentioned that the center was the safest spot for the seat (assuming you can get a proper fit there) b/c in all of their side impact crashes the seats moved around too much.

ETA: emschwar i didnt see your links before i posted this, but i'll keep it here in case someone wants a quick summary. interesting though, in your consumer reports link they mention how a lot of the seats didnt do well when attached with the LATCH system. this wasnt mentioned at all.

Sophia

01-05-2007, 06:33 AM

consumer reports is recommending that these 2 be recalled:
- evenflo discovery b/c it failed to comply with the govt crash test standards
- eddie bauer comfort - b/c none of the techs could install it securely in any vehicle they tried

The other one they recommend a recall for is the Eddie Bauer Comfort Seat because the poor base design makes it very difficult to install correctly. I just saw a similar story on GMA. They said customers can request a new base (redesigned) from the company.

Rico'sAlice

01-05-2007, 06:41 AM

I'll come back and edit some links in soon, but just had to say that Consumer Reports drives me crazy with their car seat reviews. I have trouble basing a decision on their reviews when they are so non-transparent about their research.

-----
ETA:
Consumer Reports issued a Safety Alert regarding its testing (including a new side impact test) in their February, 2007 issue. As with their previous tests, Consumer Reports does not release any details about their methods or relate their crash protection ratings to a real-world risk of injury. Some models were reported to have serious failures (breakage or separation) in their testing, so consumers should be advised to consider this information before making a purchase. Since there is no mandated side impact testing requirement in the USA, it is certainly possible for a carseat to exceed all government standards yet still perform poorly in a side impact. It is also possible that Consumer Reports' testing is flawed in some manner, as statistics have shown that rear-facing seats of all types are extremely effective and fatalities in rear-facing restraints are very rare. (bolding mine) Article continues with more good info on CR's methods.
NHTSA and Consumer Reports® Child Car Seat Ratings (http://www.car-safety.org/guide.html#cr)

And some threads at Babybargains
http://www.windsorpeak.com/dc/dcboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=13&topic_id=54032&mode=full
and http://www.windsorpeak.com/dc/dcboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=13&topic_id=54030&mode=full&page=

danalou

01-05-2007, 06:44 AM

I would have to agree with Rico'sAlice!! I am so confused right now as I had the Peg system on my registery and I am now worried about my decision. I am curious what RO's feel about this report as you never know how to take Consumer Reports.

jimmysgirl424

01-05-2007, 07:39 AM

I came in here getting ready to post about the Consumer Reports thing and was so happy to find it already being discussed. Interesting stuff. The Graco Snugride was already at the top of my list of choices, so when the time comes, I think that one will make my registry.

I need some help. My DH is fighting me on buying a car seat base and I don't know how to counter his arguements. I see that Target, Walmart and Babies R Us all have car seat bases on their lists of registry recommendations, but I don't really know what the base is for. (this will be our first baby) What is driving me INSANE is that DH's reasoning on not having a base is that his sister never had one for his nephew...who is now 17 years old!! Forget the fact that the same sister ALSO has a five year old. He just doesn't understand the necessity of a base and I'm not informed enough to tell him why it is needed. Can someone please give me a crash course here? :o :confused:

Jenyfer9

01-05-2007, 07:43 AM

I need some help. My DH is fighting me on buying a car seat base and I don't know how to counter his arguements. I see that Target, Walmart and Babies R Us all have car seat bases on their lists of registry recommendations, but I don't really know what the base is for. (this will be our first baby) What is driving me INSANE
They're talking about an extra base for your carseat, ie, if you have a second car that the infant seat will go in. We never needed an extra base (just the one that came with the infant seat was fine for our needs), but many people need an extra base because someone else will be driving the baby around on a regular (or not so regular) basis. So the question you need to ask yourself and your dh... do we only want to rely on one person/vehicle to transport our baby? Also keep in mind that the infant seat is only used for a short time (although the higher height/length limits are changing this somewhat), so if you work, you might be on maternity leave for some or much of the time when you might need the extra base. It's all a matter of personal preference.

mgrace

01-05-2007, 07:47 AM