When Rob and I did our initial shopping for a car seat we thought we were SO SMART to opt for a car seat rated to 35 pounds. We got the Graco SnugRide 35.
“Yes, it’s heavier, but she will be able to use this seat for years!” Based on her weight projection, it was looking like it would take her to her 3rd birthday. Sweet!
What we DIDN’T consider was the height limitation on the seat (32 inches). Unless Ellie was really short and fat, there is no way she’s going to last in that seat up to 35 pounds.
Looking at the growth charts further, Ellie will likely outgrow her seat when she hits 23 pounds (which will be about 19 months old).
MORAL OF THE STORY: You should get one of the smaller rear-facing seat for less money and less WEIGHT. I swear I’m getting carpel tunnel syndrome from taking ours in and out of the car.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s a great car seat and I love Graco (and it’s many accessories that the carseat fits into), but I’m wishing we got one of their smaller/lighter ones. Let’s compare for a second…
- SnugRide Infant (accommodates up to 22lb & 29in; Weight w/o base = 7.5 lb)
- SnugRide 30 (accommodates up to 30lb & 30in; Weight w/o base = 7.5 lb)
- SnugRide 35 (accommodates up to 35lb & 30in; Weight w/o base = 9.7 lb)
Looks to me like the SnugRide 30 would have been our better bet. Hindsight is 20/20.
I’m already starting to look into what we should get for Ellie next (even though we probably have another year). I’m really liking the Graco Argos 70. It’s range starts at 20 pounds and eventually it turns into a regular booster and then a backless booster when she’s ready. I figure that should cover us pretty well. I also like that you don’t have to re-thread the shoulder straps to adjust them; there is a handle that you use to move them up or down. More research and consideration would be good… will keep you posted.
Anyone have any sage advice of the car seat/booster seat variety?
When I go outside today, I will let you know what we use. It’s rated , i believe from 5lbs to 80lbs and can be used rear or non rear facing. And it converts to a booster . But I can double check on the brand for you. Seriously , talk about a huge purchase as they will be in it till they are probably 8 years old! OMG 8 years old? seriously .
Thanks, that would be great!
I have a car seat that looks just like the one you are considering. I don’t know if it’s the same model but it sure does look like it (minus the color). I find it hard to tighten the seat belt. I think the seat belt works better now that I have the base buckle on the last slit (it seems to move easier). I would actually go try it and see if you can get it to work properly without having to strain to tighten the thing. Put Ellie in it and test it out before spending all that money and wishing you went with another model!