Replace your infant car seat when your baby outgrows the weight or height limits, or when the seat is damaged or expired

An infant car seat is designed for babies from birth to roughly 30 to 35 pounds, depending on the model. Once your child reaches the maximum weight or height listed on the seat's label, it no longer protects them properly in a crash. Most babies outgrow infant seats between 12 and 24 months old, though larger babies may reach the limit sooner.

You will also need to replace the seat if it has been in a moderate or severe car crash, even if it looks fine. The internal structure can be damaged in ways you cannot see. Check your seat's manual for your manufacturer's specific crash replacement policy—some offer discounts on a new seat after a crash.

Every car seat has an expiration date printed on a label on the back or bottom. Most seats expire 6 to 10 years from the date of manufacture. After that date, the plastic degrades and the seat should not be used, even if it has never been in a crash.

Key Takeaways

  • Check the weight and height limits on your infant seat's label; once your baby reaches either one, move to a convertible or forward-facing seat.
  • Infant car seats expire 6 to 10 years from manufacture, regardless of use, and should not be used after that date.
  • If your car seat was in a moderate or severe crash, replace it even if there is no visible damage.
  • A convertible car seat can be used rear-facing longer than an infant seat, often until age 3 or 4 depending on the model.
  • Keep your receipt and the seat's manual so you can document the purchase date and understand the manufacturer's crash policy.

How to find your infant seat's weight and height limits

The limits are printed on a label permanently attached to the seat itself, usually on the back or underneath. Look for text that says "Maximum Weight" or "Height Limit" followed by a number. Write these down or take a photo so you can check them at your baby's doctor visits.

Your baby has outgrown the seat when they reach either the weight limit or the height limit—whichever comes first. Height is measured from the top of the baby's head to the bottom of their feet while sitting in the seat. If your child's head is within one inch of the top of the seat shell, they are at or near the height limit.

Do not rely on age alone. A 15-month-old might still fit comfortably in an infant seat, while another 15-month-old might already exceed the weight limit. Every baby grows at a different pace.

What to do when your baby outgrows the infant seat

Move your child to a convertible car seat or a forward-facing car seat. A convertible seat can be used rear-facing first (and usually holds children longer in that position than an infant seat does), then turned forward-facing once your child meets the forward-facing requirements. A forward-facing-only seat is used from the moment your child outgrows the infant seat.

Before you buy a new seat, check whether it fits in your vehicle. Some seats are wider or taller than others, and a seat that does not fit properly cannot protect your child. Many retailers allow you to test-fit a seat before purchase, or you can check the manufacturer's website for dimensions.

Install the new seat according to the manual that comes with it. The installation method depends on whether you use the vehicle's seat belt or the LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children). If you are unsure whether the seat is installed correctly, many fire departments and hospitals offer free car seat inspections.

Understanding car seat expiration dates

The expiration date is printed on a label attached to the seat. It is usually located on the back of the seat, on the bottom, or on the side. The date is based on when the seat was manufactured, not when you bought it, so check this before purchasing a used seat.

Manufacturers set expiration dates because plastic degrades over time when exposed to heat, cold, and sunlight. After the expiration date, the seat's structure may not perform as designed in a crash. This is true even if the seat has never been used or been in a crash.

If you have a second child, you can reuse your infant seat only if it has not expired and has not been in a crash. Keep the manual and receipt so you can verify the purchase date and expiration date.

What happens if your car seat was in a crash

After any car crash, assess the severity. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines a moderate or severe crash as one where the vehicle was not drivable, the airbags deployed, or there was injury to anyone in the vehicle. If any of these explore, the car seat should be replaced.

For minor crashes—such as a low-speed fender-bender with no injuries and a drivable vehicle—many manufacturers say the seat can continue to be used. However, check your specific seat's manual, because policies vary. Some manufacturers are more conservative and recommend replacement even after minor crashes.

Keep your receipt and the seat's manual so you can contact the manufacturer if you are unsure whether a crash qualifies for replacement. Some manufacturers offer discounts on a replacement seat after a crash.

Choosing between a convertible seat and a forward-facing seat

A convertible seat can be used rear-facing first, then switched to forward-facing once your child is old enough and heavy enough. Rear-facing is safer for young children because it supports the head and neck during a crash. Most convertible seats allow rear-facing use up to age 3 or 4, depending on the model, which means your child can stay rear-facing longer than in an infant seat.

A forward-facing-only seat is used from the start in the forward-facing position. It is typically lighter and more portable than a convertible seat, which can be helpful if you move the seat between vehicles frequently. However, it does not offer the extended rear-facing period that a convertible seat does.

Your choice depends on your situation. If you plan to have more children and want to use the same seat for multiple kids, a convertible seat is more economical. If you need a lighter seat for frequent transfers between vehicles, a forward-facing seat may be more practical. Both types are safe when installed correctly and used according to the manufacturer's instructions.

How to store or dispose of an expired or damaged car seat

Do not donate or sell an expired or crash-damaged car seat. Someone else might use it without knowing it is unsafe. Instead, remove the cover and padding, cut the straps, and mark the seat clearly as unusable before placing it in the trash. This prevents someone from finding it and attempting to use it.

Some retailers and manufacturers have take-back programs for old car seats. Check with the manufacturer or your local waste management facility to see whether a recycling or disposal program is available in your area. A few retailers offer discounts on a new seat when you bring in an old one for disposal.

If the seat is still within its expiration date and has not been in a crash, you can donate it to a local charity, shelter, or family in need. Include the manual and any documentation of the purchase date so the recipient knows the seat is safe to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an infant car seat past the expiration date if it has never been in a crash?

No. The expiration date is based on plastic degradation over time, not on use. Even an unused seat should not be used after the expiration date printed on the label. The internal structure may not perform correctly in a crash.

What if my baby is still small but has reached the height limit?

Once your child reaches either the weight limit or the height limit, they have outgrown the seat and need to move to the next size. Height is the limiting factor for many babies. Do not keep your child in an infant seat once they have reached the maximum height, even if they weigh less than the weight limit.

Is a used infant car seat safe to buy?

A used seat is safe only if you know its full history: the purchase date (to verify it has not expired), whether it has ever been in a crash, and whether all the original parts and manual are included. If you cannot verify these details, buy a new seat instead. The cost of a new seat is worth the certainty.

Do I need to buy a new seat right away if my baby is close to the limit?

You have time to shop and find a seat that fits your vehicle, but do not wait until your child has already exceeded the limits. Start looking when your baby is within a few pounds or inches of the maximum, so you have a new seat installed and ready before the infant seat is no longer safe to use.

Can I use an infant car seat in a taxi or rideshare vehicle?

Yes, but check the rideshare company's policy first. Some services provide car seats, while others require you to bring your own. If you bring your own, make sure it is properly installed according to the manual. Do not rely on the driver to install it correctly.