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Verywell Family / David Hattan
A booster seat is a vital piece of gear that reduces the risk of nonfatal injuries in vehicle crashes by 45%, particularly among children ages 4 to 8.Children should transition to a booster seat once they max out theirforward-facing harness seats'height and weight limits.
Booster seats are designed to “boost” your child so theyfit properly in a vehicle’s seat belt.Some feature a high back with a headrest, while others are backless. Regardless of the style you choose for your family, consider your vehicle, the space in your back seat, if you’ll travel with the unit, and whether you would like aLATCH attachment system(lower anchor and tethers for children).
To find the best booster seats, we researched safety guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). We also spoke to parents and medical professionals. With this guidance in mind, we researched top-rated booster seats and considered theirdesign, installation, ease of use, durability, safety features, and value.We then narrowed our list down to 19 booster seats that met our criteria and sent them home with our parenting editors to use with their children, ages 4 to 8, and in their personal vehicles.
Our editors continue to use these booster seats to help us gauge their durability and longevity. We will update this list as we gain additional insights to ensure we recommend the best booster seats for kids.
Best Overall
Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Backless Booster
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Amazon
Compact, lightweight, and portable
No installation necessary
Comfy and durable
Must remove/reinstall a screw to adjust armrests
Key Specs:
Convertible:No (backless) |Installation:No installation required |Weight and Height Range:40 to 100 pounds, and 43 to 57 inches tall |Recommended Age:4 to 10 years old |Dimensions:15 x 17 x 8.6 inches |Product Weight:5.1 pounds
Why We Recommend It
The Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Backless Booster tops our list for its simple yet sturdy design, portability, and easy cleaning. This backless booster is for kids ages 4 to 10, weighing 40 to 100 pounds and measuring 43 to 57 inches tall, and provides just enough of a boost for children to ride safely with the vehicle’s seat belt.
The Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Backless sits directly on the vehicle seat, islightweight (5 pounds) and portable, and requires zero installation—you just put it on the seat and you're done!
The seat feels sturdy and high-quality, with plenty of room to grow. The kiddos who used this backless booster seat described it assuper comfy—more than their previous seats—thanks to thicker padding and adjustable armrests. Plus, its compact size doesn’t take up too much space. In fact, during our testing period, we had two adults sit beside the booster seat on two separate two-hour road trips, and they reported that there was enough space and they felt comfortable for both rides.
We found the process of changing the position of the armrest slightly inconvenient: you have to remove a screw, press a button on the base, and reinstall the screw. On each side of the seat, you’ll also find a hide-away cup holder that folds into the base when not in use.
Aremovable, machine-washable seat padmakes for easy cleanup every time. Unsnap buttons on the underside of the base and unhook tabs on the top of the seat to remove the padding. Wash the seat pad in cold water with gentle soap on a delicate cycle and drip dry. Shake crumbs and other loose debris out of the seat and use a vacuum for the rest.
Kids loved this backless booster, praising its plush seat pad and dual cup holders that keep water bottles and snacks handy. One kiddo said this booster seat is nearly comparable to her comfy mattress. The $29 price tag is the cherry on top.
Price at time of publication: $29
Best Travel
Cosco Kids Rise Backless Booster Car Seat
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Amazon
Super light (2 pounds)
High armrests for easy seat belt access
Machine washable/dryer safe seat pad
Lacks cup holders/adjustable armrests
Key Specs:
Convertible:No (backless) |Installation:No installation required |Weight and Height Range:40 to 100 pounds, and 43 to 57 inches tall |Recommended Age:Not listed |Dimensions:Not listed |Product Weight:2 pounds
Why We Recommend It
Impressivelylightweight and portable, the Cosco Kids Rise Backless is the best booster seat for travel. It weighs only 2 pounds and requires no installation, so you (or the kids) can transport it from car to car effortlessly.
This backless booster reaps the same weight and height requirements as the Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Backless: 40 to 100 pounds and 43 to 57 inches tall. Despite its wide base for growing kids, it’s not bulky andworks as a three-across booster seat in most vehicles．Additionally, it easily fits in the overhead bin on a plane.
The overall design of the Cosco Rise Backless isbasic and uncomplicated．它功能厚垫不像TurboBooster 2.0 Backless, but none of our kids complained about comfort. Plus, the fabric is available in solid colors and patterns, like black, pink, and “ripple,” a fun pattern with variations of blue and circle-like shapes.
We appreciate the machine washable seat pad for when—not if—messes strike. The company says you can wash the seat pad separately in cold water on a gentle cycle. It’s also safe to tumble dry separately on low heat for 10 to 12 minutes.
While the armrests aren’t adjustable, they sit higher for more convenient seat belt access for kids, and there's also a seat belt adjuster to ensure proper positioning. This Cosco backless booster lacks cup holders, so you’ll want to keep that in mind.
This booster seat logged many miles from flights, taxi rides, rental vehicles, and everyday use in our test. It’s held up against drops and bumps and shows no signs of wear and tear. It’s a great backless booster seat for travel, and its low cost is easy on the wallet.
Price at time of publication: $14
Best With Belt Positioning
Chicco GoFit ClearTex Backless Booster Car Seat
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Amazon
Seat belt positioner stays put
杯何lders fold into themselves
Built-in carry handle
Easier to put belt positioner on with the child in the seat
Key Specs:
Convertible:No (backless) |Installation:No installation required |Weight and Height Range:40 to 110 pounds, and 38 to 57 inches tall |Recommended Age:Minimum of 4 years old and can sit relatively still in same seated position |Dimensions:15 x 17 x 8.5 inches |Product Weight:6 pounds
Why We Recommend It
If you feel more comfortable using a booster with a belt-positioning system, the Chicco GoFit ClearTex Backless Booster is a great option. It featuresbuilt-in lap belt guides and a shoulder belt clipthat help ensure a correct fit with the vehicle’s seat belt.
This backless booster seat has a slightly higher weight limit (40 to 110 pounds) and a lower minimum height limit (38 to 57 inches) than the Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Backless and Cosco Kids Rise Backless. The company recommends the booster for kids at least 4 years old, who can sit relatively still in the same position during a car ride.
Weighing 6 pounds, the booster seat isn’t difficult to carry. It’s alsonarrow enough to function as a three-across booster seator be placed next to a backseat passenger without overcrowding them.
Because there’s no LATCH system to install, you can simply place this backless booster onto the vehicle’s seat. The only part that took us a couple of minutes was getting the shoulder positioner onto the seat belt (tip: It’s easier with the child in the seat). We appreciate how the positioner stays on the vehicle seat belt even after the child gets out of the car, so you don’t have to reattach that piece every time. However, if you prefer a booster seat with a LATCH system, theChicco GoFit Plusoffers that installation method.
One of our favorite features of this Chicco backless booster is its integratedergonomic handle for portability．It’s easy to grab and it distributes the seat’s weight evenly while carrying it between cars or through the airport.
While the armrests don’t adjust, they’re cushy for added comfort. Parents and kids alike will love the removable, dishwasher-safe cup holders that fold into themselves to save space. Additionally, the seat is a breeze to clean—simply toss the seat pad in the washing machine (cold water on delicate cycle with mild detergent, then hang dry).
Price at time of publication: $50
Best 2-in-1
Chicco KidFit Zip Air Plus 2-in-1 Belt Positioning Booster Car Seat
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Amazon
Converts to backless booster
Seat padding zips on/off
Removable footrest provides additional comfort
Kids console doesn’t stay in firmly
Key Specs:
Convertible:Yes (high back and backless) |Installation:LATCH |Weight and Height Range:40 to 100 pounds (high back) and 40 to 110 pounds (backless) |Recommended Age:Minimum of 4 years old and can sit relatively still in same seated position |Dimensions:20 x 17 x 26 inches |Product Weight:11 pounds
Why We Recommend It
如果你正在寻找一种可兑换助推器,goes from high back to backless, you’ll love the KidFit Zip Air Plus 2-in-1. There’s a slight variation in the weight limit for each mode: high back is for kids 40 to 100 pounds, while the backless mode is for kids weighing 40 to 110 pounds. All riders must be between 38 to 57 inches tall for both modes. Because this is a 2-in-1 booster seat, it features a higher weight of 11 pounds and a larger size, but it never felt heavy or oversized during testing.
While this Chicco booster seat requires some assembly, it’ssimple and quick to put togetherthe first time (approximately 10 minutes). Installing it in a vehicle using the LATCH connectors takes about the same time.
Thisbooster seat feels very sturdyand has a few features that our kiddos love. A zip-on cushioned leg rest provides additional support and comfort for kids (it can also be removed to save space). In addition to two cup holders that fold in (to save even more space), kids really like the bonus console that detaches and holds items like snacks, toys, or sunglasses. The only downside is that the console doesn’t stay firmly in place, though it never fell off during testing.
All fabrics, including the seat pad and armrest covers, are removable via zippers and are machine washable. Putting the padding back on is surprisingly easy and everything fits perfectly, making the booster look like new again.
The Chicco KidFit Zip Air Plus 2-in-1 is a good value for a family needing options. It’s a seamless transition from car to car and it's just as effortless for kids to buckle themselves in (before you double-check their work, of course).
Price at time of publication: $160
最好的无靠背的
Diono Solana 2 with Latch
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Amazon
Retractable dual cup holders with snack compartments
Sleek look
Easy to clean
Short armrests
Key Specs:
Convertible:No (backless) |Installation:LATCH |Weight and Height Range:40 to 120 pounds and 38 to 63 inches tall |Recommended Age:Not listed |Dimensions:16.1 x 18.5 x 9.4 inches |Product Weight:6.6 pounds
Why We Recommend It
For kids who are eager to transition out of their car seats, a backless booster is a great compromise. We particularly like the Diono Solana 2 with LATCH because it has ahigher weight and height limitfor growing kids (40 to 120 pounds and 38 to 63 pounds tall) to ride safely longer and comes in three color options: black, blue, and pink. This booster seat feels light at 6.6 pounds, making it convenient to transfer when needed.
Like the Chicco KidFit Zip Air Plus 2-in-1, the Diono backless booster can be installed using theLATCH system．Two connectors latch into your vehicle’s lower anchor bars and tighten via two pull straps on the front of the seat. It took us approximately 10 minutes to install the seat the first time, but once you get the hang of it, it’s quicker and easier to install.
We appreciate the sleek and modern style of the Diono Solana 2. The kids in our test also liked the booster seat’s retractable dual cup holders with extra snack compartments.
The seat features two armrests, but they’re short and non-adjustable. On the plus side, they likely won’t intrude on a nearby backseat passenger. Another feature of the seat kids love is thedeep, padded cushioningthat’s comfy for any car ride. Plus, the seat pad is one full piece and a breeze to remove and clean in the washing machine when necessary.
The Diono Solana 2 with LATCH remains in beautiful condition well after our initial four-week testing period. We love how easy it is to clean, how lightweight it feels, and that it takes up minimal space in the back seat—even with another car seat on the other side. The seat is a good value for its high quality, especially for families who travel often or need a booster seat that’s not a challenge to store.
Price at time of publication: $60
Best High Back
Nuna AACE Booster Seat
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Pottery Barn
Color indicators on LATCH connectors
Height-adjustable headrest and recline positions
Expandable seat
Overall shape is wider (but doesn’t feel bulky)
Key Specs:
Convertible:Yes (high back and backless) |Installation:LATCH |Weight and Height Range:40 to 110 pounds, measuring 38 to 60 inches tall (high back) and 50 to 120 pounds, measuring 38 to 60 inches tall (backless) |Recommended Age:Minimum of 4 years old (high back) and minimum of 5 years old (backless) |Dimensions:14.6 x 21.5 x 26 inches (lowest position of high back) and 15 x 22.5 x 33 inches (highest position of high back) |Product Weight:15.6 pounds
Why We Recommend It
The Nuna AACE Booster Seat grows with your child via two booster conversions: high back and backless. While we like this Nuna booster seat in both modes, we particularly love it as a high back booster because of itsheight-adjustable headrest, large shoulder width for extra room, and expandable seat witheight recline positions.
Children can use this pick as a high back booster if they’re at least 4 years old, weighing 40 to 110 pounds, and measuring 38 to 60 inches tall. For backless riding, children must be at least 5 years old, weighing 50 to 120 pounds, and measuring 38 to 60 inches tall. This booster seat isn’t the heaviest we tested, but it weighs 15.6 pounds.
Installing the Nuna AACE Booster Seat is impressively simple; we didn’t even need the manual (but we checked just in case afterward). Pull a handle on the front of the seat to release the metal frame with the rigid LATCH connectors (meaning no straps) on the back of the seat and connect to the vehicle’s lower anchor bars. One of our favorite features of this Nuna booster seat is thecolor indicators on each LATCH connector.When locked in place, the color indicators change from red to green to ensure a secure installation. To convert the high back into a backless booster seat, eject the seat base and pull the high back out.
We love the sleek look and solid construction of this Nuna booster seat. It reaps a nine-position height-adjustable headrest—via a one-handed handle—to accommodate growing kids. A cool feature of the adjustable headrest is that it widens the shoulder area during adjustment.
An eight-position recline (high back only), built-in armrests, and expandable seat ensure kids of all ages and sizes are comfy. Under the armrests and headrest, you’ll findcolored belt path indicators to help kids learn where the seat belt should go.While the booster seat comes with a single cup holder rather than two, it clips into openings on either side of the seat.
Thanks to the smooth, padded fabric, you can use your hand to wipe off crumbs or other debris. Remove the seat covering for messes that absorb into the material by unfastening a few buttons and clips. Toss it in the washing machine with mild detergent and run it on a delicate cycle before hanging it to dry. We appreciate how the seat cover didn’t shrink or change quality after we washed it a few times to eliminate sunscreen residue, deeper food debris, and more. To clean the shell of the booster seat, the company recommends using mild detergent, water, and a soft cloth and air drying.
Price at time of publication: $250
Best With LATCH
Peg Perego Viaggio Flex 120
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Amazon
Adjustable backrest, headrest, and side wings
High-quality feel and look
Rigid LATCH feels secure and is easy to use
杯何lders have no base (vehicle seat is the base)
No armrests (a con for some families)
Key Specs:
Convertible:No (high back) |Installation:LATCH |Weight and Height Range:40 to 120 pounds, measuring 39 to 63 inches tall |Recommended Age:Not listed |Dimensions:22 x 17.25 x 26.75 inches (unfolded) and 23.5 x 17.25 x 9.75 inches (folded) |Product Weight:14 pounds
Why We Recommend It
While we have other booster seats with LATCH systems on our list, our favorite is the Peg Perego Viaggio Flex 120 becauseit's a dream to install with its rigid LATCH connectors.The manufacturer recommends this booster seat for kids weighing 40 to 120 pounds and measuring 39 to 63 inches tall. The seat weighs 14 pounds, which is about right for its size, yet doesn't feel heavy.
It's important to note that this Peg Perego seat is only a high back booster and does not convert to a backless booster—but don't let that discourage you; this pickwowed us during testing.
The Peg Perego Viaggio Flex 120 features a rigid LATCH similar to the Nuna Aace. To install it, you need to push a yellow handle on the front of the seat to eject the metal yellow LATCH connectors on the back of the seat. The LATCH connectors seamlessly click into the vehicle's lower anchor bars, so you don't have to fumble with straps or tightening. Once you click the connectors into place, push the same yellow handle at the front of the seat to push the seat back. Anindicator on the LATCH arms turns red to green when the connectors properly lock into placeon the anchor bars—a feature we love for peace of mind. The only part that took us some time during the installation was finding the manual in a hidden compartment on the seat's base.
We love how the Viaggio Flex 120 compactly folds after you uninstall it via a strap on the back of the seat. The headrest features a tab that connects to the base to keep the unit from unfolding during travel or transfer to another car. Two cup holders fold into the car seat's base to save space. However, we don't recommend them for small drinks because there's no base in the cup holders. Instead, the vehicle seat is the base.
The booster's additional features are also impressive, including the five-position recline and adjustable backrest, headrest, and side wings—all of which you can easily operate via one button or handle.
According to the company, all upholstered covers (the seat cover, backrest, and headrest) are safe to machine wash (maximum water temperature 87 degrees Fahrenheit).
Price at time of publication: $300
Best Narrow
Chicco KidFit ClearTex Plus 2-in-1 Belt-Positioning Booster Car Seat
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Amazon
Converts from high back to backless
Rigid LATCH is easy to install/optional
10-position headrest
Challenging to snap in armrests
Tedious to remove cover for washing
Key Specs:
Convertible:Yes (high back and backless) |Installation:LATCH or seat belt |Weight and Height Range:40 to 100 pounds (high back) and 40 to 110 pounds (backless), measuring 38 to 57 inches tall |Recommended Age:4 years old |Dimensions:17 x 17 x 26 inches |Product Weight:10 pounds
Why We Recommend It
Whether you need to accommodate other car seats or passengers, the Chicco KidFit ClearTex Plus 2-in-1 fits the bill. Despite its 2-in-1 design, which converts from a high back to a backless booster, this pick reaps a narrow size of 17 x 17 x 26 inches. We were even able to use the unit as athree-across booster seatfor several weeks when one of our editors welcomed a new baby earlier than the arrival of their three-row SUV.
Children must be at least 4 years old for both booster modes and weigh between 40 to 100 pounds for high back riding and 40 to 110 pounds for backless riding. Regardless of the booster mode, children should also be between 38 and 57 inches tall.
The overall installation of this Chicco booster seat is simple, except for putting on the armrests. We had to turn the unit upside down and apply force to the seat to snap in the armrests. Following that hiccup, installation was a dream. A button on the front of the seat releases the LATCH connectors in the back to secure the lower anchor bars. Pull a strap on the seat’s base to tighten, and you’re good to go.
If LATCH connectors aren’t your forte, that’s OK—they’re optional, according to the company (but there’s nowhere to store them). You can opt to use the seat belt only instead. Either way, the only part of installation that concerned us during testing was removing the back for backless mode. We were afraid of snapping a plastic connector, but it proved durable and held up through multiple conversions with no breakage or tear.
A10-position headrestgrows with kids, though you may have to tinker with the adjustment to get a proper fit for the seat belt. Once you find a secure and comfy fit, use the colored paths under the armrests and headrest to guide the lap and shoulder seat belt into place.
Double foam padding, a two-position backrest, and two removable cup holders will make kids feel like they’re riding in the actual vehicle seat. The cup holders collapse when you need a narrow fit and can be removed for cleaning in the dishwasher.
While the Chicco KidFit ClearTex Plus 2-in-1 has a removable and machine-washable cover, it’s tedious to remove. The elastic loops are tiny, and the plastic hook pieces are difficult to engage. We recommend removing the entire fabric for big messes (like potty accidents, car sickness, etc.) rather than snack dust or other light clean-up.
Price at time of publication: $100
Most Comfortable
Maxi-Cosi RodiSport Booster Car Seat
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Amazon
Adjustable headrest and recline
Bright red seat belt guides
Feels sturdy and secure
Only one cup holder
Key Specs:
Convertible:Yes (high back and backless) |Installation:LATCH or seat belt |Weight and Height Range:40 to 100 pounds and 43 to 57 inches tall |Recommended Age:Not listed |Dimensions:18 x22 x 18.5 inches |Product Weight:13 pounds
Why We Recommend It
如果你的家人花了很多时间在车上,the super comfortable Maxi-Cosi RodiSport might be a good fit for you. It converts from a high back belt-positioning booster seat to a backless mode for kids weighing 40 to 100 pounds and measuring 43 to 57 inches tall. We appreciate the spacious size for growing children that doesn’t feel bulky or take up too much space.
Despite instructions that aren’t intuitive,the rigid LATCH installation of the RodiSport is seamless.The seat arrives in two pieces (the back and the base) that click together in seconds. It took us about 10 minutes to install this booster in the back seat the first time, but now the process barely takes us two minutes. The company says the LATCH connection is optional, but we think this installation method makes the booster feel more sturdy and secure.
孩子们骑的共识这嘘声ter seat during our test was clear: They all thought it wassuper comfortable—and now we understand why. A seven-position headrest, multiple recline options, padded material, and armrests allow for a better fit and added comfort as kids grow. Like the other booster seats on our list, you push a handle on the top of the headrest to make it move up or down.
We appreciate the bright red seat belt guides beneath the armrests and under the headrest to help kids know where their seat belt goes. While kids missed having two cup holders (there’s only one), they didn’t struggle to fit or keep drinks in it.
Removing the seat cover of the Maxi-Cosi RodiSport is just as easy as cleaning it. The plush fabric is safe for the washing machine and washes beautifully without changes or wear and tear. The single cup holder is also removable and top-rack dishwasher safe.
Price at time of publication: $180
Best With 5-Point Harness
Britax Grow with You ClickTight Plus Harness-2-Booster Car Seat
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Amazon
Use from 25 to 120 pounds
LATCH or seat belt installation with tether
Machine washable and dryer-safe cover
Bulky
Cumbersome to remove five-point harness
Key Specs:
Convertible:Yes (5-point harness and high back) |Installation:LATCH or seat belt |Weight and Height Range:25 to 65 pounds and 34 to 49 inches tall (harness) and 40 to 120 pounds and 44 to 63 inches tall (belt-positioning high back) |Recommended Age:Minimum of 2 years old for forward-facing harness |Dimensions:21 x 23 x 25 inches |Product Weight:26 pounds
Why We Recommend It
The Britax Grow With You ClickTight Plus Harness-2-Booster transforms from aforward-facing harness to a belt-positioning booster seat.Children weighing 25 to 65 pounds and standing 34 to 49 inches tall can ride with the five-point harness, or they must weigh 40 to 120 pounds and stand 44 to 63 inches tall for belt-positioning booster mode. It's important to note that Britax recommends the booster mode only after a child outgrows the harness mode.
There are two ways to install the Britax Grow With You ClickTight Plus: LATCH and tether or seat belt and tether. Britax recommends families use the top tether at all times to help improve the seat's stability. The installation is simple using either system, but removing the five-point harness is cumbersome (you have to remove the back cover to expose the harness clips).
Following installation, theBritax booster seat feels solid, secure, and stable.While its large size isn't three across-friendly, it provides plenty of room for kids to grow. The booster seat boasts an easy-to-adjust nine-position headrest and two recline options to help you find the most comfortable fit for your child. Kids will love having two cup holders with built-in snack areas. Moreover, they'll appreciate the padded headrest, seat, and armrests for additional coziness.
While you need to unhook the fabric cover for a full cleaning, you can safely toss it in the washing machine and dryer. You don't even have to remove the harness to take off the cover. There aren't many nooks and crannies to worry about, either. Note: The company recommends periodically cleaning the harness buckle to ensure proper operation (thoroughly rinse with warm water, but do not soak).
The Britax Grow With You ClickTight Plus is the third-highest-priced booster seat we tested, but it's important to remember that you're paying for two seats in one. Plus, it's a great quality product, so you can expect it to last a long time.
Price at time of publication: $350
Best With Lap Belt Positioner
UPPAbaby ALTA Booster Seat
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Amazon
Quick installation
Padded headrest adjusts to 7 positions
Removable cup holder is dishwasher safe
Large and wide
Key Specs:
Convertible:No (high back) |Installation:LATCH |Weight and Height Range:40 to 100 pounds and 38 to 57 inches tall |Recommended Age:Not listed |Dimensions:20 x 19 x 25.5 to 33 inches |Product Weight:16.6 pounds
Why We Recommend It:
The UPPAbaby Alta Booster Seat boasts afeature no other booster we tested has: a lap belt positioner.这种特殊的作品帮助孩子40到100磅38 to 57 inches tall find a proper fit easier.
We also appreciate how easy this booster is to install: it took us less than five minutes to install it using the rigid LATCH system. The two lower anchors swing out from underneath the seat and click directly into the anchor bars—no tightening necessary. We love the green and red indicators that let you know the anchors clicked in properly. The entireinstallation process was so simplethat we were initially confused by how quickly we finished.
This high back booster seat has a padded headrest and a cup holder that clicks into either side. The cup holder can be easily removed when you need to save space or clean it in the dishwasher. However, if you install the cup holder on the same side as the seat belt buckle, you have to pull the seat belt around the cup holder, which is awkward and extends the seat belt. We had no issues using the seven-position headrest, and kids appreciate the comfy armrests and lap belt positioner that helps keep the seat belt from riding up.
头枕和UPPAbaby Alta的座套are machine washable, but we found that brushing out the crumbs was enough to make the booster look like new. We didn’t have any challenges with cleaning the seat, and there were no deep or difficult-to-reach nooks and crannies. Plus, the plastic shell is a breeze to wipe down.
As for the size of the booster seat,it’s wide and big．We couldn’t fit an adult between this booster and another car seat in the back seat of a Chevy Cruze. Moreover, we couldn’t fold down the back seat center console for cup holders because it interfered with the seat. On the plus side, its big frame gives children tons of wiggle room for comfort.
The UPPAbaby Alta reaps a median price for booster seats, which is fair for its nice quality and great performance. The entire unit is in excellent condition after the initial testing period, with no wear and tear or other quality issues.
Price at time of publication: $180
Best 3-in-1
Graco Nautilus 2.0 LX 3-in-1 Harness Booster Car Seat
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Amazon
Forward-facing harness, high back, and backless
Narrow design saves space
Padded seating
Removing/reattaching back and harness is difficult
Harness system rattles without child in seat
Key Specs:
Convertible:Yes (forward-facing harness, high back, and backless) |Installation:LATCH or seat belt |Weight and Height Range:22 to 65 pounds and 27 to 49 inches tall (forward-facing harness), 40 to 100 pounds and 43 to 57 inches tall (high back), and 40 to 120 pounds and 43 to 57 inches tall (backless) |Recommended Age:Minimum of 4 years old |Dimensions:19.7 x 19.4 x 26 inches |Product Weight:17.4 pounds
Why We Recommend It
Once your kiddo outgrows their rear-facing car seat, they will need a forward-facing seat and then a booster seat—so why not kill two birds with one stone and save some money in the process? The Graco Nautilus 2.0 LX 3-in-1 transforms intothree modes of use: forward-facing harness, high back booster, and backless booster.Thanks to its three modes, kids (at least 4 years old) can use this seat for years (22 to 120 pounds). We appreciate that the booster seat doesn’t feel bulky and is narrow enough that it doesn’t take up too much room in the back seat.
Depending on the mode, installation is either LATCH or seat belt. Graco says securing the seat in booster mode with LATCH is safe, but only if the vehicle manufacturer allows it. We recommend reading over the booster seat and your vehicle manuals to ensure a proper installation. We installed the seat during our testing period using the LATCH system, which was easy peasy. The only tricky part was removing and reattaching the back and harness. We also found that the harness system rattles when a child isn’t strapped in, which was a minor inconvenience.
The Graco Nautilus 2.0 LX has several features for premium comfort, such as a 10-position headrest, a four-position recline, and padded seating. We had zero issues using any of the booster seat’s features; everything worked as it should, including the dual cup holders.
While there are several pieces to this booster seat, many of them are machine washable, like the headrest pad and upper and middle backrest pads. We think that the $190 cost is a good deal for a three-in-one design that will last for years to come.
Price at time of publication: $190
Booster Seats We Also Tested
- Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Highback Booster:We love how this pick easily converts from a high back to a backless booster and installs just as effortlessly. It feels light to carry and features height-adjustable armrests and a comfortable headrest. However, the headrest doesn’t have thick padding, and the overall unit doesn’t feel very sturdy.
- Safety 1st Store ‘n Go Sport Booster Car Seat:This Safety 1st booster seat doesn’t feature a LATCH system, so installation and transfer are a breeze. There’s also a storage drawer underneath the seat for small items, like sunglasses, a tablet, and more (which weandthekids loved). On the other hand, adjusting the headrest is challenging because you must take the whole seat out to reach a certain piece for adjustment. Moreover, we felt we might break the headrest when changing its height.
- Cosco Kids Finale 2-in-1 Booster Car Seat:The Cosco Kids Finale is a basic 2-in-1 booster seat without bells and whistles. It’s quick to install, feels sturdy and lightweight, and is easy to clean, thanks to a removable and machine-washable cover. Plus, it converts from a forward-facing harness to a belt-positioning booster seat. The booster seat’s downfall is that it doesn’t feel high quality, and there are no adjustments to the headrest and armrests.
- Diono Monterey 5iST FixSafe:The machine washable and plush fabric, great durability, and folding capability of the Diono Monterey 5iST FixSafe are its saving graces. Unfortunately, the seat is heavy (18.7 pounds), was somewhat challenging to install, and felt inconvenient to carry around due to an awkwardly placed carrying handle.
- Clek Oobr High Back Booster Car Seat:We love the sleek, minimalist design of the Clek Oobr. The booster seat, which is a high back and backless booster, feels solid but lacks cushioning for kids. Moreover, some kids felt “squished” when using it in high back mode.
- Diono Monterrey 2XT Latch:While we love the LATCH installation and how lightweight this high back booster is, we were a little concerned that the back detached from the base when not installed (when we moved it from one vehicle to another).
How We Tested Booster Seats
To find the best booster seats, we began our research by studying AAP, NHTSA, and IIHS safety guidelines.We also spoke with parents and medical professionals, includingJessica Jermakian, DSc, Vice President of Vehicle Research for the IIHS;Heather Trnka, Injury Prevention Coalition Supervisor at Akron Children’s Hospital; andDenise Scott, MD, a JustAnswer pediatrician, to learn more about what to look for in a booster seat.
With this expert guidance in mind, we then researched dozens of booster seats available on the market and narrowed our list to the top 19 options that met all the safety guidelines. To ensure we’re recommending the best booster seats, we sent our picks to parenting editors to use at home with their children for an initial four-week testing period. Our editors used these booster seats in their own vehicles and assessed each one on several key attributes, including design, ease of installation, durability, ease of use, ease of cleaning, and overall value.
To kick off our testing, our editors unboxed the booster seats and examined them for flaws, loose threads, sturdiness, and quality. We also looked for special features, such as removable and washable covers, cup holders, armrests, a recline option, an adjustable headrest, and more. While some booster seats arrived fully assembled, others required the attachment of backrests, headrests, or cup holders. Next, we asked editors to watch videos from the NHTSA on booster seat installation tips before reading over manufacturer instructions.Then, we set a timer to determine how long it took us to install the booster seats according to the manual in vehicles of different sizes, such as a Chevy Cruze, SUVs, and minivans. We installed the booster seats using LATCH systems (when applicable) or seat belts. During the installation process, we noted any struggles or challenges, the overall size of the car seats compared to other seats in the vehicle, and safety features.
Before taking the booster seats on test drives, we made sure the children were buckled in safely. We also made additional adjustments to accommodate their size and needs, such as adjusting the headrest, recline, or armrests,
编辑和他们的孩子使用这些助推器席位s in their daily routines for an initial four weeks, driving to school, soccer practice, and even going on road trips. To better understand the kids' perspectives, we asked them if they felt comfortable in the seats and what they liked or didn't like about them. We also cleaned the booster seats according to each manufacturer’s recommendations at least once or as often as necessary. For convertible booster seats, we also converted them from the high back configurations to the backless modes, noting the ease or difficulty of the transition and if we needed help.
We’re still evaluating these car seats well beyond the initial four-week testing period to better gauge their performance and durability in the long term. Our editors continue to use them almost daily and provide feedback to ensure we’re recommending the best booster seats. We’ll update our list with current information on how the booster seats fare over the next six months and beyond.
What to Look for in a Booster Seat
Safety
Before transitioning your child to a booster seat, ensure they're ready for the change. According to our experts and the AAP, keeping your child in a forward-facing car seat is safest until they outgrow the weight and height limitations. Moreover, if their shoulders are above the top harness slots or the tops of their ears reach the top of the seat, they should transition to a belt-positioning booster.
Double-check a booster seat's age, weight, and height recommendations so you'll know if it will work for your child. Additionally, each state has age and weight requirements for car seats you need to follow. Unfortunately, sometimes these requirements are low, and children are safest when they max out their forward-facing seat. Dr. Jermakian says she often sees parents forgo the booster seat when it's inconvenient, such as carpooling. However, it's vital that kids use a booster seat on every trip until a vehicle seat belt fits properly, typically around 8 to 12 years old and at least 4 feet 9 inches tall.
To use a booster seat, children must use a vehicle's lap and shoulder belts. The lap belt should sit low across your child's thighs, while the shoulder belt should sit in the middle of the chest and shoulder (off the neck), according to our experts and the IIHS.
最后,避免充气助推器席位,马y deform under the forces of a crash, explains Dr. Jermakian. Inflatable booster seats are less stiff; if a collision happens, you need a unit that's stiff enough to keep the seat belt across the pelvis and shoulder. Under the forces of a crash, inflatable boosters may cause a child's hips to slip under the belt, which can cause the seat belt to move into the soft areas of the abdomen and result in serious injury, Dr. Jermakian adds.
Booster Type
According to Heather Trnka, caregivers should look for a booster seat that fits their child, vehicle, and budget. The goal of all booster seats is to boost your child up so they fit properly with the vehicle’s seat belt. There are two main booster types: high back and backless. You may also see all-in-one car seats or combination seats. Below, we break down each booster type and who it’s for.
- High back:In addition to giving kids a boost, a high back option provides neck and head support (typically via a built-in backrest and headrest). A high back booster is best for vehicles lacking headrests and high seat backs. Some models, such as theNuna AACE, feature a LATCH system for installation, while others allow you to secure the seat via the vehicle’s seat belt.
- Backless:This booster seat gives kids the lift they need without a backrest. Instead, kids use the vehicle’s seat as the backrest. A backless booster, like theGraco TurboBooster 2.0 Backless Booster(our best overall pick), is much more compact and travel-friendly. It’s ideal for vehicles with headrests and for older children.
- Combination:A combination car seat transforms from a forward-facing harness car seat into a booster seat (thinkBritax Grow With You ClickTight Plus Harness-2-Booster Car SeatorGraco Nautilus 2.0 LX 3-in-1 Harness Booster Car Seat).
- All-in-One:These are for kids to ride in while rear-facing before converting to a forward-facing harness seat and then a booster seat. If you opt for an all-in-one car seat, Trnka recommends reading the labels on the seat’s side to determine when it’s safe for children to transition to booster mode.
Installation Method
Dr. Scott recommends checking your vehicle before buying a booster seat. Look in the back seat for both the lap and shoulder straps, headrests, the height of the seats, and airbags, as well as your vehicle’s manual to learn more about its booster seat requirements, she adds. Moreover, consider whether you’ll be transferring or traveling with the booster seat often. Booster seats are installed via two main methods: LATCH systems and seat belts. If a booster seat begins as a forward-facing harness and transforms into a booster seat, you may also have to use a tether.
LATCH systems come in two styles: straps and rigid LATCH. Most booster seats have a button on the unit you can press to release the LATCH systems. Rigid LATCH is full metal (rather than a moving strap that needs tightening), and connects directly to the vehicle’s lower anchors. For example, theDiono Solana 2features LATCH straps, while thePeg Perego Viaggio Flex 120boasts rigid LATCH. Regardless of which LATCH system you may prefer, you typically can’t use it in the middle of the back seat because most vehicles don’t have lower anchors there.
For car seats without LATCH systems, they rely on the seat belts children use to install. So essentially, there’s no installation method. The booster seat sits directly on top of the vehicle seat, and children use the vehicle belt to secure themselves and the seat. Dr. Scott says you should only use booster seats with both the lap and shoulder seat belts, not the lap belts alone.
Ease of Use
At some point in your kiddo’s childhood, they’ll learn how to buckle themselves in independently. While you should always check your child’s work before hitting the road, look for a booster seat that’s easy for children to use. Moreover, opt for a comfortable booster seat, especially if your family travels often.
Many booster seats, like theChicco KidFit Zip Air PlusandMaxi-Cosi RodiSport, feature colored seat belt paths so kids know where to put the vehicle belt for a proper fit. For older kids (and insistent young ones), look for a seat lightweight enough to carry from vehicle to vehicle. Lastly, consider a machine-washable seat cover for easy cleaning.
Cost
We tested booster seats from as low as $14 to as high as $370, with a median price of $173. Booster seats that are 2-in-1 or 3-in-1, meaning they transform from one mode to another, often reap a higher price tag. Backless booster seats typically cost less than high back booster seats because they’re only the seat portion of a full high back option.
According to Dr. Scott, the best booster seat for kids will depend on your car. She adds that when a unit is used properly, both types of booster seats are equally protective. Remember: A booster seat with a higher price doesn’t equate to easier use or better safety.
Why Trust Verywell Family
Katrina Cosseyis a commerce writer, enthusiastic shopper, and devoted mom. She spent several years in broadcast journalism but found her true passion in writing about the best products for families, pregnant people, and kids of all ages. She’s researched thousands of baby products, toys, gifts, and more and personally tested many of them. In her spare time, you’ll likely find her in the beautiful outdoors of Oklahoma with her husband and 3-year-old son. While Katrina’s son isn’t in a booster seat yet, she tested theGraco Turn2Mefor her son as part of Verywell Family’srotating car seat test．Turn2Me(一个一体化的汽车座椅)变换from a rear-facing harness to a forward-facing harness and high back booster. Katrina plans to buy a backless booster as a travel-friendly option and has her eyes set on theChicco GoFit ClearTex Backless Booster．
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