Try getting one of the clip on vibrators for the bassinet. DD loved sleeping in the bassinet with that turned on. And don't shy away from letting them fall asleep in your arms. I did that and my DD is a happy 7 year old, not spoiled at all. When she was a little older than newborn, we'd leave her in the carseat for short naps but not for long-term stays. The other thing she liked was taking naps in the little hammock chair; it also had a built-in vibrator.

I also started with the Snugride, and loved it. I upgraded when she was about 11 months because she also outgrew her's before her first birthday. I started with the Triumph because of the high ratings. I used it for a week and a half, and returned it. The straps kept getting twisted on me, and the way to retract the straps I found cumbersome. I would struggle with it getting her in AND out, because of the straps. Also, I didn't like how the buckle was so high up. I returned it, and got the Cosco Alpha Omega. Similar to the Snugride, there is a button in the front to adjust the straps. Very easy to use. As she grows, there is a 2 handed lever above her head. You turn and lift, so you don't need to rethread the straps. At the same time it adjusts the headrest. There is a removable cup holder, and two fold-up armrests. I used this seat rear facing until she was about 18 months old, and forward-facing until now (she is 25 months). I provided a link, I remember paying $160.00 for it, but this one is listed for 90 bucks at Amazon. There are several types, I bought mine at Toys 'r us. There is also an Eddie Bauer version. Good luck looking, when I shopped I pulled all the seats on the ground and let my kid jump in and feel it out! Then I researched reviews and made a decision. Beginning with the Triumph, I'm glad I ultimately settled on the Costco Alpha Omega. Christy :) Oh, another resource for finding opinions about products is Epinions.com. Here is a link that might be useful: Amazon Costco Alpha Omega Carseat

andermra..I've posted a link to a site with patterns for toddler and infant car seat covers. The pattern is 10 dollars....BUT...the lady will BARTER for things she needs instead of money. On the page, you will see "free patterns" listed on the left side of the page, part way down. Click on this, then scroll down that page to find what she will barter for. The pattern description says it will work on different kinds of car seats... Hope this has helped. Here is a link that might be useful: Car seat cover

Try a "vinyl repair" search. I saw a youtube video of vinyl repair, and kits are available too. Maybe check at an auto supply store for a kit. Or stop an auto upholstery place and ask for suggestions. Maybe they could replace a section for not too much $. I'm not a fan of duct tape as it doesn't hold well. There is a much better tape: Scotch plastic tape. It comes in colors and clear, different widths and sticks really well. Sometimes hard to find. I once used to fix an underwater aquarium part, and the tape held in the water!