Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 vs. Safety 1st Turn and Go 360 DLX: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 and the Safety 1st Turn and Go 360 DLX.

Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to feel confident that you're choosing the optimal car seat for your family's needs and budget. Let us know if you have any other questions!

At A Glance

Our Thoughts

When considering the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 and the Safety 1st Grow and Go 360 DLX car seats, several key factors differentiate both. The common denominators are their 3-in-1 functionalities, accommodating children from infancy through toddlerhood, and even reaching up to a booster seat stage. However, individual attributes, such as design, safety considerations, and unique features, indeed set them apart. Both seats have a 10-year expiration period, allowing for extended usability, and very importantly, both meet federal safety standards.

Safety is an undisputed priority, and in this regard, the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 stands out. It features Graco's ProtectPlus engineering, a safety testing system that includes a steel-reinforced frame and energy-absorbing EPS foam, offering robust protection. Moreover, it allows a maximum forward-facing weight of 65 lbs compared to Safety 1st's similar maximum, and a slightly more extended rear-facing weight limit of 40 lbs which is also similar to Safety 1st's maximum. This feature indicates that your child can stay in the safer, rear-facing configuration for slightly longer.

However, the Safety 1st Grow and Go 360 DLX’s trademark rotation feature provides a notable advantage. Parents that have frequent pick-ups and drop-offs may find the seat rotation for easier loading and unloading highly beneficial. This feature might also be appealing to caregivers who face back or mobility challenges as it minimizes physical strain during daily routines. Still, there have been some reported issues with the mechanism's smoothness when a child is in the seat, a crucial point that might require hands-on testing before making a final decision.

In terms of comfort and ease of maintenance, both models are quite competitive. They offer machine washable fabrics, adding to their convenience for busy parents. But, the Graco SlimFit3's Rapid Remove cover technology might edge out slightly over its counterpart by promising faster and easier removal for cleaning.

Overall, the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 appears to be the more reliable and versatile choice thanks to its meticulous safety design, adaptability, and easy cleaning. While its installation process might be standard, the high level of safety engineering makes up for this. This seat might be ideal for families who value safety above all else and need a slim, versatile car seat to fit alongside siblings in the backseat.

On the other hand, if easy access and minimal physical strain during pick-ups and drop-offs are your top priorities, the Safety 1st Grow and Go 360 DLX might be the way to go. However, make sure to test the rotation mechanism and make sure it operates smoothly to your satisfaction before committing, particularly since it carries a heftier price tag.