Understand how and when to transition your child to a booster seat after they outgrow a forward-facing 5-point harnessed car seat.
When a Child Is Ready for a Booster Seat
A child may move to a booster seat only when they have outgrown the forward-facing harness limits of their car seat.
This includes when the child exceeds:
- The maximum weight limit for harness use
- The maximum height limit for harness use
- Any other harness restriction listed in the instruction manual
A child must remain in a harnessed car seat until all harnessed limits (such as weight, height, or other manufacturer restrictions) are exceeded, and the child meets the minimum age requirements for a booster seat.
How Booster Seats Work
Booster seats are designed to position the vehicle seat belt correctly over the strongest parts of a child’s body.
The booster does not restrain the child directly. Instead, it helps ensure:
- The lap belt sits low across the upper thighs
- The shoulder belt crosses the center of the chest and shoulder
- The child sits upright and properly positioned in the vehicle seat
Types of Booster Seats
Booster seats generally fall into two categories:
- High-back boosters
- Backless boosters
Some car seats may transition from harnessed use to booster mode. Always follow your instruction manual for how and when each mode can be used.
Proper Seat Belt Fit in a Booster Seat
When using a booster seat, the vehicle seat belt must fit correctly:
- The lap belt must sit low and snug across the upper thighs, not the stomach
- The shoulder belt must lie across the middle of the shoulder and chest, not the neck or face
- The child must sit upright for the entire ride without slouching or repositioning the belt
If proper seat belt fit cannot be achieved, the child should continue using a harnessed car seat.
When Not to Use a Booster Seat
A booster seat should not be used if:
- The child is still within the limits of a car seat with a 5-point harness
- The vehicle seat belt does not fit properly across the child
- The child cannot sit properly positioned for the entire ride
In these cases, a car seat with a 5-point harness should continue to be used.
If You Need Help
If you are unsure whether your child is ready for a booster seat, refer to your car seat instruction manual first.
If additional help is needed, contact Customer Care. Our team can help guide you based on your specific car seat model and usage requirements.