Image: MomJunction Design Team
When you take your little one out in a car, the main concern regarding travel would be safety. But with the best car seats for 6-year-olds, you can worry less and travel safely, as they can accommodate your child safely by letting you elevate and adjust the seat. They also help adjust protection belts (such as seat and lap belts). We have compiled a list that you can consider before buying and picking one from varying seat boosters.
Top Picks
11 Best Car Seat For 6-Year-Olds in 2024
1. Best Removable Back: Evenflo Big Kid Highback 2-in-1 Belt-Positioning Booster Seat
The car seat includes a removable back support option, a ready-to-use vehicle belt, and an extra boost for comfortable seating in the vehicle. In addition, it has a dual cup holder to keep snacks and drinks from spilling all over the place. The product is well-known for its comfortable padding system, making it appropriate for long journeys. This mom-approved seat booster is also easy to clean and machine-washable. Besides, the lightweight seat is simple to transport. To make an informed decision before buying, you can check out this video of a reviewer’s experience.
Pros
- Removable back for additional ease of use
- Quality elastic cup
- Narrow seating provides extra comfort
- Includes belt clip to ensure safety
Cons
- Padding could be thin
- Lacks latch connectors
Review:
According to a tester, “The Evenflo Booster Car Seat proved to be a solid choice for my kids. Its affordability and secure fit make it a valuable option. However, I feel comfort on long trips could be improved for older children.”
2. Best Durable: Safety 1ˢᵗ Grow and Go All-in-One Convertible Car Seat
The three-in-one car seat booster can be used in a rear-facing position for newborns. Tested to ensure the baby’s utmost comfort, it has two grow-with-baby pillows. The harness secures the child and the seat in rear and forward positions, providing complete protection. The height adjustment on this safe and effective car seat is simple. This product also includes a headrest cushion in all sizes. You can use the belt-positioning booster feature if your child has outgrown it and is ready for a car seat belt. Click here to check out this YouTuber’s unbiased review.
Pros
- Can be installed with the vehicle’s belt
- Study and durable
- Offers adequate padding
- Comes with a good harness system for extra safety
- Machine-washable
Cons
- Lacks headrest
Review:
A reviewer mentions, “The Safety Grow and Go Convertible Seat keeps my baby safe and secure on the road. While installation and adjustments can be a bit challenging, its cushioning and adaptable design are truly remarkable.”
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Do not miss out on this product that has earned 25,548 positive reviews on Amazon.
3. Best Machine-Washable: Diono Radian 3R, 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat
The convertible seat is designed to fit almost any space and has a steel core for maximum safety. It has rear and forward-facing options, making it suitable for newborns to children aged six years. Constructed to offer proven performance, it is mechanically engineered with high-strength steel and a reinforced steel core. This FAA-approved and aircraft-certified product provides maximum protection and comfort. In addition, this car seat is designed to take up as little space as possible. Here’s a video by one of the reviewers to help you get a better understanding of the product.
Pros
- Machine-washable cover
- Adheres to federal safety standards
- Easy to carry
- Adjustable cushion system
Cons
- Cover may not be durable
- Installation could be tricky
Review:
A user says, “The Diono Radian Convertible Car Seat has impressive build quality and safety features. I was amazed by the durability and versatility. However, I encountered some challenges due to its weight and tricky instructions.”
Did You Know?4. Best Lightweight: Mifold Hifold Fit-and-Fold Highback Booster Seat
The travel booster seat has up to 243 individual settings and is equipped with unique multi-fit technology. The hi-fold technique aids in quick folding into a compact and convenient size. Its multi-fold system folds down to a convenient and compact size for storage and travel. This mommy-approved portable booster seat is not only lightweight but also comes with convenient straps for proper positioning. It can be adjusted in four different areas: the seat, the body, the head height, and the width.
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight expanded polyethylene foam for impact resistance
- Portable and compact design
- Up to six impact-protection zones
- High level of adjustability
Cons
- May lack padding
- Seating area could be smaller than usual
Review:
As per a user, “The Mifold Hifold Highback Booster Seat fits well between car seats in my Toyota Corolla. Its slim design makes shoulder strap placement and self-buckling easy and secure. Great for travel, though comfort could be improved.”
5. Best Backless Design: Graco Turbo Booster Car Seat
Manufactured by a trusted brand, the Graco Turbo backless booster car seat is suitable for children between the ages of four and ten. With height-adjustable armrests, the seat ensures your children are comfortable and safe. This product with a backless design provides no interference and helps secure your child in place. The baby-friendly seat has a weight limit of up to 100lb.
Pros
- Backless option
- Cushion is machine-washable
- Hideaway cup holders
- Removable cushion
- Plastic parts can be cleaned with soap and water
Cons
- May not tether to the car with a latch
- Cushion may be a bit uncomfortable on long trips
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has earned its stripes, with over 5,941 reviews on Amazon.
6. Best For Easy Installation: BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Car Seat
Bubblebum inflatable travel car seat and booster has received safety certification from Federal Motor Safety Standard 213 (FMVSS of USA) and comes with a seat belt positioning clip for proper seat belt fit. The material used in this tried-and-tested product is long-lasting and provides extra security. The memory foam adds comfort and structural integrity, while the three-car seat positions reduce the likelihood of slouching.
The portable booster seat is narrow, compact, and light, making it simple to transport. The innovative carrying design is portable and convenient, making it a trusted choice for many parents. In addition, it includes a quick blow-up technique.
Pros
- Easy-fit belt for all children
- Comfortable seats
- Quick and easy installment procedure
- Compact and portable to fit in a purse
- Adheres to Federal safety standards
Cons
- May not come with a latch system
Review:
One of the parents says, “We used the BubbleBum Inflatable Booster Car Seat for our UK trip. It’s easy to inflate, install, and transfer between cars.”
Quick fact7. Best Two-Layer Protection: Chicco KidFit 2-in-1 Belt-Positioning Booster Car Seat
Chicco booster car seat has duo-guard protection and up to ten adjustable positions to ensure your child’s safety. The height adjustment features allow you to adjust not only the waist but also elevate the neck area. In addition, it includes a high-quality latch connector to keep the seat in place. The seat has double padding for maximum comfort. The two-position backrest mimics seat positioning and offers a good grip.
Pros
- Machine-washable for easy cleaning
- Sturdy design
- Two layers of protection
- Contoured seat with double-foam padding
Cons
- Could pose issues with the seat belt adjustment
Review:
A reviewer writes, “I’m really pleased with the Chicco KidFit Booster Car Seat. Its easy assembly and installation, lightweight design, and comfortable feel make it a fantastic choice. My child loves it too. The cup holders are a convenient feature. Sadly, the quick-release latch is not as handy as I thought. Nevertheless, a great investment in terms of safety and comfort.”
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The tried-and-true product has earned over 1,022 good reviews on Amazon.
8. Best For Long Rides: KneeGuard Kids Car Seat
The car seat can be adjusted in multiple ways to provide comfortable rides. In addition, the seat booster comes equipped with latch technology to ensure that the seat is positioned correctly. If your car does not support a latch, a clip-on system is available in the seat.
Pros
- Ideal for long rides
- Comfortable seating saves children from backache
- Ergonomically designed footrest to prevent painful knees
Cons
- May not be easy to install
9. Best Adjustable: KidsEmbrace High-Back Booster Car Seat
The car seat is highly adjustable, thanks to the high back booster. You can effortlessly adjust the headrest to fit all positions. In addition, the product includes an adjustable shoulder belt to ensure the child’s safety. Further, this quality-tested, portable car seat is simple to clean, and the covers are machine washable.
Pros
- Comfortable for long rides
- Lightweight and easy to carry around
- East installment
- Adjustable headrest positions
- Includes a cup holder
Cons
- Padding might be slippery
Review:
According to a tester, “The KidsEmbrace High-Back Booster Car Seat is a hit with my grandson. Its character-themed design delights him. While I love how lightweight it is, he’s more excited about the cup holder and transition. However, I do think the seat is not sufficiently padded.”
10. Best Leak-Proof Valve: Hiccapop UberBoost Inflatable Booster Car Seat
This car seat takes less time to adjust because it is made with UberBoost technology, which inflames the seat in the blink of an eye. In addition, it has a double-thick vinyl seat, a non-slip silicone seat, and seat belt loops. The backless booster seat has a comfortable and contoured design. According to testers’ experiences, it is a safe and convenient option for children.
Pros
- Leak-proof valve
- No-skid silicone bottom
- Three-point seat belt harness
- Cover fabric with a heavy-duty zipper
Cons
- May not be appropriate for long rides
Review:
A user says, “The Hiccapop UberBoost Booster Car Seat is practical choice for my kids, especially for its convenience and safety during rideshare trips. Its easy setup and compact storage make it perfect for travel use. I just love how secure the positioning is. However, I find it mildly disappointing as it took several attempts to adjust the inflation level to improve comfort.”
11. Best Stability: Clek Olli Backless Booster Car Seat
This booster car seat provides stability and ensures your child’s safety. In addition, it has a consistent belt fit system that sits comfortably on the body. Further, this mom-tested car seat includes additional padding for added comfort and a carrying strap and quick-release system, making it easy to transport.
Pros
- Offers additional stability
- Consistent belt fit
- Thick layer of padding
- Quick-release strap
Cons
- Slightly expensive
Review:
According to a parent, “The Clek Olli Backless Booster Car Seat works just fine for my kids. It seamlessly fits in my car seats and the latch modification works well. Installing is a breeze, ensuring proper seat belt positioning. The only downside is that the cup holder can be installed only on one side of the seat.”
How To Choose The Right Booster Car Seats?
Before choosing the right booster car seat, consider the following factors.
- Comfort: This is a critical factor for children. If they are comfortable, the trip will become their most cherished memory. Always double-check the padding and seating system to ensure compatibility. It is critical to inspect the shape of shell seat boosters.
- Latch system: Select a seat booster with a latch system. With this system, the seat’s positioning remains rigid and does not slip. However, some clip-on options can also meet the requirement.
- Price: When making a purchase, it is crucial to consider whether the product is a good value for money. Products with numerous features may be worthless if they are of no use to you. Therefore, understand your needs and then narrow down your option.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What type of car seat should a six-year-old be in?
Your six-year-old child should ride in a forward-facing seat with a harness. However, if the child outgrows the forward-facing seat, switch to a travel booster seat with a harness and tether (1).
2. Is six years old too old for a car seat?
Children should ride in car seats until they reach 12 years of age. Your child should even outgrow a booster seat to stop using a car seat (2).
3. Does my six-year-old need a 5-point harness?
Yes, some children need a five-point harness in a forward-facing seat when they haven’t still outgrown the manufacturer’s height and weight requirement. It is recommended to use a five-point harness until the child has outgrown the harness (3).
Why Trust MomJunction?
Wedetso Chirhah reviews children’s products, electronics, automobiles, and more. He follows an intensive research process to bring the most relevant list of products to the readers. In this article, he has created a list of the best car seats for 6-year-olds with pros and cons to help you choose the safest car seat. The list also includes a buying guide to help you understand the various factors for a better purchasing experience.
Investing in the best car seats for 6-year-olds will help ensure your child is seated safely during car rides. These car seats allow you to adjust the harness so that your child is comfortable and safe. The best seats feature latch systems and are easy to put on and stay secure. Furthermore, they are well-padded to ensure your child does not experience discomfort. Your rides will be more convenient and enjoyable when you get the right car seat for your child.
Infographic: How To Choose The Right Car Seat For A Six-Year-Old?
Car booster seats have various safety features, such as protection belts, to keep the child safe during a car ride. However, to ensure their optimum comfort and security, refer to the following infographic to learn about the factors to consider when purchasing a car seat.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Car Seat Recommendations for Children
https://www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/carseat-recommendations-for-children-by-age-size.pdf - Car Seats: Information for Families
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/Pages/Car-Safety-Seats-Information-for-Families.aspx - Harness or Booster: When to Make the Switch!
https://csftl.org/harness-or-booster/
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