Convertible car seats are a versatile purchase. With the ability to be used rear or forward facing, many parents appreciate the practicality of these child passenger restraints. Choosing a particular model that suits the family and the vehicle can be a daunting task. Parents may find these recommendations a helpful starting point.

What Parents Should Know About Car Seats

Above all the names and models listed here, the "best car seat" is one that meets current safety standards, is installed precisely according to the manufacturer's instructions, and is used properly every single time.

The other aspect parents should know about convertible car seats is that in the United States even though toddlers can be turned forward-facing at age 1 AND 20 pounds, it is not the safest choice. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), and countless Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPST), urge parents to keep their children rear-facing for as long as possible for added safety (CPSafety and AAP).