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The latest recommendations from the National Highway Traffic Safety Authority state that children should ride in a car seat or booster until they turn 12 or meet specific height and weight requirements, outlined by each state. Ensure your child is securely strapped in for every car ride with the proper car seat.
Name | Average price | Type | Item weight (lbs) | Max weight limit (lbs) | Max height limit (in) | Purchase |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Graco Contender 65![]() | $120 | Convertible | 15.2 | 65 | 49 | Buy now |
Graco 4Ever 4-in-1 Convertible![]() | $200 | All-in-one | 23 | 120 | 57 | Buy now |
Maxi-Cosi Mico Max Plus ![]() | $300 | Rear-facing | 20 | 30 | 32 | Buy now |
Britax DualFit Harness-2-Booster ![]() | $170 | Booster | 22 | 100 | 58 | Buy now |
Chicco Booster ![]() | $50 | Backless booster | 5 | 110 | 57 | Buy now |
Diono Radian 3RXT ![]() | $300 | All-in-one | 28 | 120 | 57 | Buy now |
All infants, toddlers and children must ride in the proper type of car or booster seat until they reach a certain height and weight. Specific car seat regulations vary by state, so check with your state’s department of motor vehicles or local authorities to find this information. However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Authority offers its own age guidelines for children up to age 12.
This table provides a general timeline to help you decide what type of seat your child needs, based on his or her age. The transition periods will vary based on your child’s height and weight and your state’s specific laws.
0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Rear-facing | |||||||||||||
Front-facing | |||||||||||||
Booster | |||||||||||||
Seatbelt |
Choose the right type of car seat for your child based on the latest age, weight and height guidelines.
Most car seats expire six years after the date they were manufactured. Look for the expiration date printed on the manufacturer’s label on the side or base of the seat. If you can’t find it, call the manufacturer to be sure.
Car seats expire because the plastic, nylon and other materials used to make them can wear down over time, potentially putting your child at risk in the event of an accident. If buying a used car seat, check the expiration date to see how much use you’ll get out of it before it expires. Your money may be better spent on a new seat, especially if you’re looking into an all-in-one model for long-term use.
Consider these important features when shopping for a car seat:
Before hitting the road, check to make sure your vehicle and car seat are safe and secure for the ride. These are just a few basic safety tips to keep in mind:
A properly-installed car seat is one of the most important parts of your car ride with your little one. Compare some of the top options and be sure to purchase the correct type for your child’s age, weight and height.
Ready to buy? Compare top car seats
Searching for more baby essentials? Compare top high chairs or use our guide to find the right stroller.
We conducted online research to compare the price, type, size and overall features of some of the most popular car seats and booster seats currently available. We also factored in our own personal experiences and third-party product reviews.
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