How do I know my seat is installed correctly?

Less than one inch of side-to-side movement at the belt path, and the recline angle matches the seat indicator. Every fire station and many hospitals offer free install checks.

When do I replace a car seat?

After any moderate-or-worse crash, on the expiration date stamped on the shell (usually six to ten years), or if any structural part is cracked.

Car Seats

Infant, convertible, and all-in-one car seats. Safety scores, install notes, and the fit-finder.

The best infant car seats for the first yearSee the full comparison

Guides for this topic are publishing soon.

Car Seats: frequently asked questions

How do I know my seat is installed correctly?: Less than one inch of side-to-side movement at the belt path, and the recline angle matches the seat indicator. Every fire station and many hospitals offer free install checks.
When do I replace a car seat?: After any moderate-or-worse crash, on the expiration date stamped on the shell (usually six to ten years), or if any structural part is cracked.

More in Baby Gear

StrollersFull-size, travel, jogger, double. Tested over real miles, terrain notes included.Baby CarriersWrap, ring sling, soft-structured, and hiking carriers. Hip-healthy picks and the learning curve for each.Travel GearTravel systems, lightweight strollers, and the gate-checking trick that saves your seat.