5 Best Car Seats for Really Tall Babies in 2023
Children are no longer legally required to use a child car seat once they reach a height of 135cm or a weight of 36kg. This legal limit is typically reached by children around the age of 12 years old, but it may vary for those who grow at different rates. Some tall children may reach this limit as early as 7 years old, and although they may be above the recommended age for using a car seat, parents of tall children may still prefer to use a car seat for their child’s safety. In such cases, a taller car seat that can accommodate a child’s height is available. Some car seats on the market go up to 160cm, providing an extra 25cm of headroom and longer use of the safety car seat. Investing in one of these seats can be an excellent option for parents with tall, slim, and young children as it will last them as they continue to grow and develop stronger bones.
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What to Consider When you Buy Car Seats for Tall Babies?
If you’re looking to buy a car seat for a really tall child, there are a few things you should consider:
- Height and weight limits: Look for car seats that have high height and weight limits. Some car seats are designed to accommodate taller children, so look for those that go beyond the average height and weight limits.
- Adjustable features: Look for car seats with adjustable features such as adjustable headrests, shoulder straps, and seat belts. This will ensure that the car seat can be adjusted to fit your child’s height and weight, even as they grow taller.
- Harness system: Look for car seats with a five-point harness system, which is recommended for children up to at least 18kg. This will provide optimal protection and support for your child.
- Compatibility: Check to ensure that the car seat is compatible with your car’s seat belt or ISOFIX system.
- Comfort: Ensure that the car seat is comfortable for your child, with sufficient padding and support. A car seat that is too tight or uncomfortable can be a distraction and can cause discomfort on long journeys.
By taking these factors into consideration, you can find a car seat that will keep your tall child safe and comfortable during car rides.
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We have chosen the best 5 car seats for really tall children.
Diono Monterey 2XT Latch 2 in 1 High Back Booster Car Seat with Expandable Height & Width
Diono is a well-known manufacturer of car seats that are both safe and durable, and the Monterey 2 is no exception. This car seat is suitable for children from 4 years old to 160cm, which is equivalent to the height of an average 17-year-old.
The headrest of the seat can be adjusted to 11 different positions, which can change the height by up to 16.5cm, and the width of the seat can also be expanded by up to 50cm. The Monterey can be fitted using the ISOFIX connector or the car’s 3-point seat belt and can be easily folded down for storage. Additionally, it comes with two cup holders.
A mother who reviewed the Monterey on MFM gave it a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars and described it as a safe and practical car booster seat. She found it sturdy, comfortable, with excellent side impact protection, and suitable for children from pre-school to secondary school as it can be adjusted to fit them as they grow.
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Pros:
- The Diono Monterey 2XT Latch 2 in 1 High Back Booster Car Seat is suitable for children from 4 years to 160cm, which is equivalent to the size of an average 17-year-old. This means that it can be used for a longer time, making it a cost-effective option for parents.
- It has an adjustable headrest with 11 different positions, which can change by up to 16.5cm in height. Additionally, the width of the seat can be expanded by up to 50cm, ensuring that it can provide a snug and safe fit as your child grows.
- The car seat comes with two cup holders, making it a convenient option for parents and children on the go.
Cons:
- The Diono Monterey 2XT Latch 2 in 1 High Back Booster Car Seat may be a bit heavy and bulky, which could make it difficult to move from one vehicle to another or to store when not in use.
- While it does come with an ISOFIX connector or a 3-point seat belt for installation, some users have reported difficulty with installation, particularly when using the seat belt method.
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Graco Milestone 3 in 1 Car Seat, Infant to Toddler Car Seat
The Graco Milestone is a car seat designed to be used in multiple stages and will accommodate your child’s growth from birth until they are at least 12 years old. It can be used in a rear-facing position until your child weighs 13kg, which is typically around 12 to 15 months of age. Additionally, the Milestone features a one-step headrest and harness adjustment and can be installed using the car seat belt.
According to a review by one of our MFM reviewers, she appreciated the Milestone’s one-step headrest and harness adjustment feature, as well as its ease of installation. She found it safe and comfortable and appreciated that she wouldn’t have to purchase a new car seat every few years. Overall, she found it to be a great choice for busy mothers.
Pros:
- Versatile: The Graco Milestone 3 in 1 Car Seat can be used as an infant car seat, a rear-facing toddler car seat, and a forward-facing toddler car seat, making it a versatile option that can grow with your child.
- Easy to install: The car seat can be easily installed using the car’s seat belt or the InRight LATCH system, which ensures a secure and tight fit in your car.
- Comfortable: The Graco Milestone 3 in 1 Car Seat has multiple recline positions and a comfortable cushioning system that ensures your child is comfortable during long car journeys.
Cons:
- Heavy and bulky: The Graco Milestone 3 in 1 Car Seat is relatively heavy and bulky, which makes it difficult to move from car to car or store when not in use.
- Limited weight capacity: The car seat can accommodate a maximum weight of 45 pounds in its forward-facing mode, which may not be sufficient for some parents who want to keep their child in a five-point harness for longer.
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Recaro Monza Nova IS
The Recaro Monza Nova IS is a high-back booster car seat that is designed for children weighing between 15 and 36 kg (approximately 3 to 12 years old). It features integrated speakers in the headrest, allowing children to listen to music or audiobooks through a Bluetooth connection to a mobile device.
The Monza Nova IS also has side impact protection, which helps to keep your child safe in the event of a collision. It has a height-adjustable headrest and a recline function, ensuring that your child is always comfortable on long journeys. The car seat is secured using the car’s three-point seatbelt, and it also has an integrated ISOFIX connection for added stability.
One of the benefits of the Recaro Monza Nova IS is its Bluetooth connectivity, which can help keep children entertained on long car journeys. The adjustable headrest and recline function also ensure that children are comfortable and safe.
The car seat’s side impact protection is also a key safety feature. However, the Monza Nova IS is relatively expensive compared to some other high-back booster seats on the market. Additionally, some parents have noted that the integrated speakers can be a distraction for children, which could be a safety concern.
Pros:
- Safety features: The Recaro Monza Nova IS has advanced safety features like side impact protection and a sturdy frame that make it a reliable car seat option for parents who prioritize their child’s safety on the road.
- Comfort: This car seat is designed with soft padding and adjustable headrest and armrests that make it comfortable for children to sit in, especially during long car rides.
- Long-lasting: The Recaro Monza Nova IS can accommodate children from 15 to 36 kg (approximately 3 to 12 years old) making it a long-lasting investment for parents.
Cons:
- Price: The Recaro Monza Nova IS is on the expensive side, making it less accessible for some families on a tight budget.
- Installation: Some parents have reported difficulty in installing the car seat, which can be time-consuming and frustrating, especially for first-time users.
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Maxi Cosi RodiFix AirProtect (AP)
The Maxi Cosi RodiFix AirProtect (AP) is a high-back booster car seat that offers exceptional comfort and safety for children from 3.5 to 12 years old. The innovative AirProtect technology provides advanced side impact protection, reducing the risk of head and neck injury in case of a collision.
The seat features a comfortable recline function, and the headrest and backrest are easily adjustable to accommodate your growing child. The RodiFix AP also has built-in ISOFIX connectors that provide a stable and secure installation in the car.
One of the main advantages of the Maxi Cosi RodiFix AP is its ease of use. The car seat is lightweight and easy to install, and the removable cover is machine washable, making cleaning a breeze. The seat also has a convenient belt guide that ensures correct installation of the seat belt, and the seat belt tensioner keeps the seat securely in place.
However, the Maxi Cosi RodiFix AP is relatively expensive compared to other booster seats on the market, and some parents may find it too bulky to move between cars. Additionally, some children may find the seat too narrow, which can be uncomfortable for longer journeys.
Pros:
- Safety: The Maxi Cosi RodiFix AirProtect (AP) features advanced AirProtect technology which offers superior side-impact protection for your child’s head and neck. This is an important safety feature that can give parents peace of mind while driving.
- Easy to install: The car seat is designed with easy installation in mind. It has an easy to use ISOFIX system that allows for quick and secure installation in the car.
- Comfort: The RodiFix AirProtect (AP) has a comfortable seat cushion that can be easily removed and washed, ensuring your child is comfortable throughout the journey.
Cons:
- Cost: The Maxi Cosi RodiFix AirProtect (AP) is one of the more expensive car seats on the market, which may not be affordable for some parents.
- Limited recline positions: The car seat has limited recline positions, which may not be ideal for children who need to sleep in the car.
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Graco Junior Maxi Plus Group 2/3 Car Seat
The Graco Junior Maxi Plus Group 2/3 Car Seat is a high-back booster seat designed for children weighing between 15-36 kg. It can be easily installed using a car’s 3-point seat belt system and has adjustable armrests and a headrest that can be easily adjusted as your child grows.
One of the standout features of the Graco Junior Maxi Plus is its comfortable and padded seat cushion, which is machine washable for easy cleaning. It also has built-in cup holders on either side of the seat, making it easy for your child to access drinks or snacks on longer journeys.
Another advantage of this car seat is its lightweight design, making it easy to move between cars or store when not in use. It also meets the latest European safety standards, providing parents with peace of mind that their child is safe and secure while traveling.
One potential downside to this car seat is that it doesn’t have the added protection of a five-point harness system, which some parents may prefer. Additionally, some parents may find that the seat is not as cushioned as other models on the market, which could be less comfortable for longer journeys.
The Graco Junior Maxi Plus Group 2/3 Car Seat is a budget-friendly option suitable for children weighing 15 to 36 kg (around 4 to 12 years old). Here are three pros and two cons of this car seat:
Pros:
- Easy to install: The car seat is straightforward to install, and the adjustable headrest allows for a comfortable fit for growing children.
- Lightweight and portable: The lightweight design makes it easy to switch between different cars, and the backrest can be removed to convert the seat into a booster for older children.
- Cup holder and storage: The car seat has a built-in cup holder and storage compartment, which can be useful for keeping drinks and snacks handy during long car rides.
Cons:
- Limited padding: The car seat has minimal padding, which may not provide enough comfort for some children, especially during longer trips.
- No side-impact protection: The lack of side-impact protection may be a concern for some parents who prioritize safety features in their car seats.
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FAQs: Best Car Seats for Really Tall Babies
What if my baby is too tall for car seat?
If your baby is too tall for their car seat, you may need to switch to a different car seat that accommodates their height. Most car seats have height and weight limits, so it is important to make sure your child is still within the recommended range for their current car seat.
If your child has outgrown their infant car seat, you may need to consider a convertible car seat that can be adjusted to fit a taller child. Some car seats are designed to accommodate taller children, and may have higher height limits or adjustable headrests that can be raised to accommodate taller children.
It is important to make sure that your child is always properly restrained in a car seat that fits them correctly. A car seat that is too small or too large can be dangerous in the event of a crash. If you are unsure about which car seat to use for your child, you can consult with a certified child passenger safety technician or your pediatrician for guidance.
What is the highest height for car seat?
The highest height for a car seat varies depending on the model and brand. Some car seats can accommodate a child up to 63 inches (160 cm) tall or more, while others have a maximum height limit of around 57 inches (145 cm). It’s important to check the specifications of a car seat before purchasing to ensure it will accommodate your child’s height and weight.
If you have a particularly tall child and are concerned about finding a car seat that will fit them, look for car seats with adjustable headrests and backrests, or consider a booster seat with a higher weight and height limit. Keep in mind that while height is an important consideration, weight is also a crucial factor when it comes to selecting an appropriate car seat. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for the maximum height and weight limit of a car seat to ensure your child’s safety while travelling.
How do I know if my toddler is too tall for a car seat?
Most car seats have a height and weight limit specified in the manual. You can check the manual of your car seat to see the maximum height and weight it can accommodate. If your child’s height is approaching the limit or has already exceeded it, it might be time to switch to a larger car seat.
You can also tell if your toddler is too tall for a car seat if their head is protruding over the top of the seat, their shoulders are above the harness slots, or their ears are above the back of the seat. Additionally, if your child complains about being uncomfortable or feeling squished, it may be a sign that they have outgrown the car seat.
It’s essential to keep in mind that the safety of your child in a car seat should be a top priority. If you’re unsure whether your child has outgrown their car seat, it’s always best to consult the manual, seek advice from a certified child passenger safety technician, or contact the car seat manufacturer for guidance.
How tall should a seat be for a child?
The height of a car seat for a child depends on their age, weight, and height. Generally, the height of a seat should allow the child to sit comfortably and safely with their back against the seat and their legs bent at the knees over the edge of the seat.
For infants and young toddlers, rear-facing car seats should have a minimum height limit of 50 cm or 19 inches. For forward-facing car seats, the height limit varies but typically ranges from 65 cm to 80 cm (26 to 32 inches) or more, depending on the specific model and the child’s weight. Booster seats usually have a minimum height requirement of 110 cm or 43 inches, but this can vary depending on the model.
It’s important to always refer to the specific manufacturer’s guidelines for your particular car seat and to ensure that your child fits within the height and weight limits.
What age can a baby go into a bigger car seat?
It is recommended that babies remain in a rear-facing car seat until they are at least 2 years old or until they reach the maximum height and weight limit for their infant car seat. After that, they can move to a bigger car seat, which can either be a convertible car seat that can be used both rear-facing and forward-facing or a forward-facing car seat.
The exact age at which a baby can go into a bigger car seat will depend on their height, weight, and the specific car seat being used. It is important to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations for when to switch to a bigger car seat. It is also important to make sure that the car seat is properly installed and that the child is securely and correctly fastened into the seat at all times.