Graco Nautilus 3-in-1
Going up against other child restraint systems, the Graco Nautilus holds it own. It’s designed to hold kids 20 pounds up to 100 pounds, and has a five-point safety harness for children 20 to 65 pounds if needed. When the toddler hits 30 pounds it converts to a high-back belt-positioning booster seat, then to a backless booster at 40 pounds. Kids up to 57 inches tall will be comfortable in this seat.
To make it last it has a steel reinforced frame, which no doubt adds an extra measure of safety in case of a crash. It meets or exceeds U.S. Safety Standards including FMVSS 213, as well as testing standards for the New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Putting safety aside for a moment, the manufacturer remembered the convenience of the occupant by including wide armrests, a cup holder and a side storage compartment for snacks. The cost for the Graco Nautilus falls between $137.98 and $259.95.
Quick Specs
- Dimensions: 29 by 20 by 36.1 inches
- Weight: 19.5 pounds
- Seat Type: High Back Booster
- Features: Five-point harness, cup Holder, front adjusters, washable fabric
- Side Impact Protection: Yes
- NHTSA Ease of Use Rating: 3
Strengths
This seat is versatile and can convert to handle kids at whatever growth stage they’re at, whether it’s 20, 30 or 40 pounds. It’s been rigorously crash-tested and meets federal safety standards. In a worst-case scenario the steel reinforced frame will help keep the seat from folding up in a crash. Weaknesses Any children taller than 57 inches will have a hard time getting comfortable. Unlike the Sunshine Kids Monterey, this booster doesn’t fold down for travel. The seat is only about 12 inches wide, which is fine for younger kids but older toddlers may feel cramped. |
Prices
Valerie Baldowski is passionate about writing about everything from childrens safety and juvenile products to gardening tools. She is the mother of a high energy 8 year old child so she is accustomed to researching childrens products and services. Her writing and researching began at an early age… See more about Valerie |