Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Elite is a car seat with slightly higher average score in most of the metrics for car seats. This car seat is within the budget, making it perfect for families who are thinking of spending less money for a car sear. This version of Graco is better than older models. It’s installed with thicker padding and soft fabric. Easy installation using your car’s belt and above the average crash-test score.
How We Picked Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Elite
We tested Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 by installing it in a standard sedan car. We evaluated all how easy it is to install and use, the comfort and quality it provides for your little ones, its stroller compatibility, and maintenance.
Ease of installation
The SnugLock technology provides a hassle-free installation using the LATCH or your vehicle’s seat belt. The car seat base has 4 recline position for an error free installation. This 4 recline position is also paired with a level indicator which makes it easy to find the right angle for installation.
Comfort/Quality
With comfort and quality, Graco is equal with other products that are on the same price range. Graco’s car seat has all around padding with thin and less supportive foam. The fabric is canvas and softer than those infant inserts that you can buy for the seat.
The canopy opens fine and is long enough. It has a peek-a-boo window with Velcro closure. One thing to note is that, it’s hard to keep it open while you are carrying and the handle is upright as both are the same height. For durability and lifespan, you get what you paid for. The overall finish and fit is not terrible for a budget-friendly car seat.
Stroller Compatibility
Generally speaking, Graco strollers are only compatible with Graco car seats. We have tested a few Graco strollers and most of them did not perform well in our reviews. Since Graco SnugRide SnugLock 25 is one of their latest models, we hope that these car seats will be more compatible with other strollers outside the Graco line.
While there are strollers and car seats that have universal adapters like Thule Urban Glide and Thule Infant car seat that can work with Graco, it is a worry for many parents that strap-in-place will not be used properly.
Care & Maintenance
SEAT PAD CLEANING: Machine wash with cold water and gentle soap. Put Machine on delicate cycle and dry by hanging. Do not bleach.
BUCKLE CLEANING: Place the buckle in warm water and shake it gently. While in the water, press the red button a few times. Do not submerge the buckle strap into the water. Use of soap, detergents and lubricants are prohibited.
HARNESS CLEANING: Wipe or wash the surface with damp cloth with mild soap. Do not submerge the harness and latch straps into the water.
Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Elite
We found Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Elite car seat to be easy to install and use, with easy maintenance and a reasonably priced at $200. The all around padding is soft and comfortable seeing our daughter always asleep in this car seat.
Hundreds of reviews from Amazon swear by Graco SnugRide SnugLock 35 Elite confirming that this ca seat is indeed easy to use and comfortable. There are also multiple reports that SnugLock technology protected their child during an accident.
While there are a lot of things that I like about this Graco, it’s still not the best, comparing it with other brands. It still has problems with the canopy handle collision, so if you have the budget, I would suggest to check out for other brands of car seats.
Nevertheless, if you are on a budget and are saving for other baby things, Graco SnugRide Snug Lock 35 is a good option with good crash results and easy installation.