Car Seat Size Calculator

The AAP recommends keeping children rear-facing until at least age 2, or until they reach the maximum weight or height limit of their rear-facing car seat. Many convertible seats allow rear-facing up to 40-50 lbs. Rear-facing is significantly safer in crashes.

Children can stop using a booster when they pass the 5-step seat belt fit test: 1) back against seat back, 2) knees bend at seat edge, 3) lap belt across upper thighs, 4) shoulder belt across chest/shoulder, 5) child can maintain position for entire trip. This typically happens around 4'9" tall and 8-12 years old.

A correctly installed car seat should not move more than 1 inch side-to-side or front-to-back at the belt path. The harness should be snug (can't pinch excess webbing at the shoulder). Many fire stations and hospitals offer free car seat inspections.