Frequently
Asked Questions

The Britax Infant Car Seat Comparison Chart provides a breakdown of the similarities and differences between each of the rear-facing only Britax car seats.  

The Britax Willow/Willow S/Willow SC infant car seats should only be used rear-facing with children who weigh between 1.8 and 13.6 kg (4 and 30 lbs.) and who are 81.3 cm (32 in) in height or less. (US Note: As of December 5, 2024, ICS seats will have a height range of 43.18 - 81.28 cm (17-32 in), introducing a minimum height requirement.)

Yes. There is an extra belt path on the back of the seat for added security when the seat is installed without the base. Follow your user guide instructions to properly install the car seat without using the base.

In Canada, the carry handle MUST be locked in the upright position for travel.

Yes, these car seats meet the requirements of the FMVSS Side Impact Rule. (US Note that FMVSS 213a compliance is required to be met on or after June 30, 2025.)

No, not when installing with a lap-shoulder belt using ClickTight. However, if using a lap-only belt, it MUST be locked according to your vehicle’s owner manual. 

You may use either mode of installation. Choose the one that provides the most secure installation, but do not use both modes simultaneously.

No, they are not compatible with previously manufactured Britax base models. Refer to the Britax Infant Car Seat Base Compatibility Chart for details.

No, they are not compatible with previously manufactured Britax infant car seat models. Refer to the Britax Infant Car Seat Base Compatibility Chart for details.

They are compatible with the Brook™/Brook+/Grove™ modular strollers, as well as the Britax B-Free™ and B-Lively® single strollers when used with the appropriate adapter. Please review the Stroller Compatibility Chart for more information.

Customize with the RightSize® system, which includes adjustable points at the hips, shoulders, and between the legs for a perfect fit. Follow your user guide instructions to adjust the harness system to achieve the proper fit.

Britax does not recommend the use of crotch rolls with any of our car seats, as they can interfere with the proper positioning of the harness. For additional lateral support, rolled receiving blankets may be placed on either side of the child, but this should only be done if the car seat’s existing inserts do not adequately support the newborn. Given the advanced design and multiple inserts in current Britax infant car seats, additional side rolls are generally unnecessary. Always follow the user guide for proper fit and positioning.

The best infant car seat will be the one that fits your vehicle, fits your baby, and is easy for you to install and adjust correctly every time. Ensure the seat specifications meet your current needs by reading all product labels and the user guide. It’s smart to review your vehicle user’s manual as well for child restraint use.

Both the Poplar & Poplar S convertible car seats combine the patented ClickTight® installation system with a 43.2 cm (17-inch) slim SpaceSaver™ design, helping to ensure an easy and secure fit in your vehicle. The Poplar S offers additional features such as a removable head pad and an upper body support pillow. The Britax Convertible Car Seat Comparison Chart provides a breakdown of the similarities and differences between each of the convertible and all-in-one Britax car seats. (US Note: These seats will have a minimum height range for rear-facing and forward-facing modes with the December 5, 2024, regulatory updates.)

At 43.2 cm (17 in) wide, these car seats are designed to fit 3-across* in most vehicles without compromising on safety and comfort. *Britax cannot guarantee 3-across installation fitment in all vehicles.

The length is approximately 72.39 cm (28.5 in) when reclined on a flat surface, though this may vary depending on the vehicle's seat angle and other factors. 

The Poplar weighs 12.34 kg (27.2 lbs.), while the Poplar S weighs 12.70 kg (28 lbs.).

Yes, the lower infant insert is required for children weighing 10 kg (22 lbs.) or less in a rear-facing position. Do not use it for children over 10 kg (22 lbs.) or in a forward-facing position.

The ReboundReduce stability bar helps minimize motion in the event of a crash when used in rear-facing mode. It is required in Canada for all convertible and all-in-one car seats when used rear-facing. 

Adjust the recline angle to a more upright position to help ensure the base makes proper contact with the vehicle seat. If you still cannot achieve proper contact, try a different seating position or contact customer service.

Both car seats offer a one-handed, quick-adjust headrest and harness system, eliminating the need for rethreading as your child grows.

Lift the harness release button, pull the harness straps forward, squeeze the harness height adjuster on the headrest, slide to the desired position, and ensure the headrest is locked into position.

Harness pads MUST be used for children weighing 10–18.1 kg (22–40 lbs.) rear-facing and 11.3–29.5 kg (25–65 lbs.) forward-facing. Harness pads may be used for children under 10 kg (22 lbs.) rear-facing if proper positioning can be achieved. 

No, the harness pads should not be permanently removed.

Use the buckle slot closest to your child but not underneath them.

Yes, either the cup holders or the included cup holder caps MUST be used during travel for proper functionality and safety.

Yes, you can purchase replacement cup holders and cup holder caps by contacting customer service.

The serial label is on the lower back of the seat shell.

The rear-facing mode can be used for children weighing between 2.3 and 22.7 kg (5 and 50 lbs.) or until the child’s head is 2.5 cm (1 in) below the top of the headrest. The height range for rear-facing mode is from 45.7 to 124.5 cm (18 to 49 in), ensuring that the child remains within the safety limits for optimal protection. (US Note: As of December 5, 2024, the One4Life will have a height range from 76.2 cm to 124.5 cm (30-49 inches), introducing a new minimum height requirement.) 

Use the forward-facing harness mode for children who weigh between 10 to 29.5 kg (22 and 65 lbs.) and whose height is 124.5 cm (49 in) or less.

The booster mode is suitable for children who weigh between 18.1 to 54.4 kg (40 and 120 lbs.) and whose height is 111.8 to 160 cm (44 to 63 in). 

The infant insert can be used with infants weighing 9.1 kg (20 lbs.) or less. Do not use with infants weighing more than 9.1 kg (20 lbs.). 

Use only the "B" recline position when the car seat is in booster mode. 

Use rear-facing for children who weigh between 2.3 and 22.7 kg (5 and 50 lbs.) and whose height is 45.7-124.5 cm (18-49 in). 

Additional Requirements: 

• The upper body support pillow may be used only for children 2.3 - 9.1 kg (5 - 20 lbs). 

• The lower infant insert must be used for children 10 kg (22 lbs) or less. 

• The tether must NOT be used in rear-facing mode. 

• LUAS installation should not be used for children over 15.9 kg (35 lbs). 

Use forward-facing with a harness for children who weigh between 10 and 29.5 kg (22 and 65 lbs.) and whose height is 124.5 cm (49 in) or less.   

Additional Requirements: 

• The child must be able to walk unassisted. 

• LUAS installation should not be used for children over 18.1 kg (40 lbs). 

• The anti-rebound bar must be removed for forward-facing. 

• The V-shaped tether strap must be used in forward-facing harness mode. 

• The upper body support pillow and lower infant insert cannot be used in forward-facing mode. 

• The V-shaped tether strap must be used in forward-facing harness mode. 

• The upper body support pillow and lower infant insert cannot be used in forward-facing mode. 

No, do not use LUAS if: 

• Your child weighs more than 15.9 kg (35 lbs) and the car seat is in rear-facing mode. 

• Your child weighs more than 18.1 kg (40 lbs) and the car seat is in forward-facing harness mode. 

Use in booster mode only with children who weigh between 18.1 and 54.4 kg (40 and 120 lbs.) and whose height is between 111.8 and 160 cm (44 and 63 in). Britax strongly recommends children should ride in harness mode until they exceed the weight or height limits specified.

Additional Requirements: 

• Use only the vehicle’s lap and shoulder belt system when restraining the child. 

• The harness should be stored when using as a booster seat. 

• NOTE: You may install the One4Life Slim in booster mode using the lower connectors.  

The One4Life Slim is designed to offer a more compact fit with its 44.5 cm (17.5”) SpaceSaver™ design. It’s designed to fit 3 across without compromising on trusted Britax safety and premium comfort. The One4Life Slim is also easy to clean thanks to the smooth and accessible shell and base. The car seat cover features premium fabrics that are naturally flame retardant and safe to machine wash and dry. *Britax cannot guarantee three-across fitment in all vehicles. 

All One4Life Slim and select One4Life covers feature SafeWash® fabrics, which are naturally flame-retardant (no added FR chemicals) and safe to machine wash and dry. The One4Life Slim covers are different in that they feature premium soft knit fabric with additional woven mélange accents that are made from recycled polyester. 

The One4Life Slim is designed to grow with your child and offers up to 10 years of use from birth through high-back booster mode. Discontinue use of the child restraint if it is older than ten (10) years from the manufacturing date.

The 44.5 cm (17.5”) seat is designed to fit 3 across without compromising on trusted Britax safety and premium comfort. However, Britax cannot guarantee 3-across installation fitment in all vehicles. 

Secure the car seat using the vehicle’s lower universal anchorage system (LUAS) OR with the vehicle seat belt, but never with both. In forward-facing harness mode, always use the tether strap in addition to the lower anchors or seat belt.

Yes, in harness mode (both rear-facing and forward-facing), up to 7.6 cm (3 in) of the base can hang over the front edge of the vehicle seat. However, the base must remain flat and parallel to the vehicle seat.

Adjust the car seat to a more upright recline angle to ensure enough of the base is in contact with the vehicle seat. This helps the car seat perform correctly in a crash.

No, do not use the top tether with rear-facing installations.

Yes, the head restraint cover must be unfolded for children weighing 9.1 kg (20 lbs) or more.

The upper body support pillow may be used for rear-facing children who weigh between 2.3 - 9.1 kg (5 - 20 lbs). Do not use the pillow if your child weighs more than 9.1 kg (20 lbs).

Yes, the lower infant insert must be used for children weighing 10 kg (22 lbs) or less when rear-facing. Do not use the insert if your child weighs more than 10 kg (22 lbs).

No, do not use the upper body support pillow or lower infant insert when the seat is forward-facing.

The durable car seat cover is safe to machine wash and dry. The shell is designed to give you effortless access to harder-to-reach spaces, making cleanup quick and easy. Simply wipe down the seat and shell with a damp cloth. The slide-out cupholders are dishwasher safe for convenient cleaning.

The anti-rebound bar is required for use when installing the seat rear-facing, but it must be removed for forward-facing installations.

Use the buckle slot that is closest to, but not underneath, your child when installing the car seat.

The minimum requirement is set to avoid promoting forward-facing too early. It’s recommended to transition from an infant car seat to a rear-facing convertible car seat before using a harness-2-booster. (Note: As of December 5, 2024, the Britax harness-2-booster seats will also have a height range from 76.2 cm - 124.5 cm (30-49 in), introducing a new minimum height requirement.) 

Your child may be ready to transition to a belt-positioning booster seat when they have outgrown the forward-facing harness in their car seat by reaching the maximum height or weight limit, typically around 29.5 kg (65 lbs.) or 124.5 cm (49 in) tall. However, it’s essential to ensure your child also meets the minimum requirements for booster mode—consult your car seat user guide. Even if they outgrow the harness height before reaching 18.1 kg (40 lbs.), they must still weigh at least 18.1 kg (40 lbs.) to safely transition to a booster. Additionally, your child should be mature enough to sit still and upright throughout the entire car ride. The vehicle’s seat belt should also fit properly, meaning the lap belt lies low across the hips and the shoulder belt crosses the chest and rests on the shoulder. The child should also be able to sit with their back against the booster high-back or vehicle seat, knees bent comfortably at the edge of the seat, and feet flat on the floor (or close to the floor for shorter legs). Ensuring that these criteria are met is crucial for your child's safety.

A child is ready to transition out of a belt-positioning booster seat when they can sit comfortably in the vehicle seat with the vehicle lap and shoulder seat belt fitting properly without the booster. This means the lap belt should lie snugly across the upper thighs, not the stomach, and the shoulder belt should cross the chest and rest on the shoulder without cutting into the neck. Additionally, your child should be tall enough to sit with their back against the vehicle seat, knees bent at the seat edge, and feet flat on the floor. This typically occurs when the child is around 144.78 cm (4' 9") tall and between 8 to 12 years old, though the exact timing can vary based on the child's size and the vehicle's seat belt fit. It’s essential to ensure your child is mature enough to sit properly throughout the entire car ride without slouching or leaning.

The ISOFLEX system secures the booster seat to the vehicle, preventing it from becoming a projectile when not in use and stabilizing it during a crash. 

The lower connectors secure the booster seat to the vehicle, preventing it from becoming a projectile when unoccupied and providing stability during a crash.

In booster mode, the vehicle seat belt restrains the child, and the LATCH/LUAS system provides stability to the seat. The LATCH/LUAS does not bear the crash forces, so it does not contradict the vehicle manufacturer’s maximum anchor weight limit. 

No, the seat should not be reclined in booster mode as it was tested and certified for use only in the upright position.

Use with the backrest for children who weigh between 18.1 to 54.4 kg (40 and 120 lbs.) and whose height is between 111.8 and 160 cm (44 and 63 in).

Use without the backrest for children who weigh between 21.8 and 54.4 kg (48 and 120 lbs.) and whose height is between 116.8 and 160 cm (46 and 63 in).

Use the Skyline/Highpoint as a backless booster only in seating positions with a vehicle head restraint and when proper vehicle belt placement can be achieved.

Britax recommends that you secure the booster seat to the vehicle using the lower connectors or by fastening the vehicle seat belt across the unoccupied booster seat. This helps position the seat for use and reduces the chances of the booster becoming a projectile when not in use.

Britax strongly recommends that children be restrained in the rear seating positions, as it is statistically safer.

To help ensure the vehicle seat belt is properly positioned when using the Skyline/Highpoint, the lap belt should be worn underneath the armrest and rest low on the child’s upper thighs (pelvis area) to keep it securely in place. The shoulder belt should cross the midpoint of the child's chest, rest snugly on the shoulder while avoiding the neck, and sit under the armrest on the buckle side. This positioning will help ensure that both the lap and shoulder belts provide optimal protection in the event of a crash. 

Secure the booster seat to the vehicle using the lower connectors or by fastening the vehicle seat belt across the unoccupied booster seat.

Discontinue use of the booster seat if it is older than ten (10) years from the date of manufacture or has been involved in a severe crash.

Not all Britax infant car seats are compatible with the Britax modular strollers. Refer to the Stroller Compatibility Chart for detailed information.

Not all competitive brand infant car seats are compatible. For more information, refer to the Britax Brook/Brook+/Grove Modular Stroller Compatibility Chart.

The Brook/Brook+/Grove modular stroller canopies are treated with PU (polyurethane) and a NON-fluorine based acrylic finish for water resistance. This treatment meets all global testing protocols for safety and durability.

No, the Brook/Brook+/Grove modular strollers are single strollers only.

The Zinnia bassinet material is a poly cotton blend.

It is recommended to spot clean the fabrics. For more cleaning tips, read this article.

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused by the discontinuation of the Vehicle Seat Protector. Britax does not approve of the use of non-Britax accessories with car seats, as this could affect the car seat's performance in a crash. No other accessories or seat coverings are approved as replacements. Your child's safety is our top priority, and we recommend following the car seat installation instructions to help ensure proper protection without the need for additional accessories.

Yes, the fabric can be spot cleaned with water and mild soap.

The allowable overhang for Britax car seat bases can vary depending on the specific model. Generally, the car seat base may overhang the front edge of the vehicle seat by a certain amount as specified in the user guide for each model. It’s essential to consult the user guide for your Britax car seat to determine the correct overhang allowance.

After the seat belt installation is achieved following applicable instructions and warnings, the locking retractor can be switched to the automatic locking mode if desired. DO NOT pull on the shoulder belt to get the next click out of the retractor.  If you locked the retractor or switched it to automatic locking mode during installation, Britax recommends you follow the below steps when uninstalling/removing the car seat from the vehicle:  

• Hold the shoulder belt with one hand so that the retractor does not start taking up the seat belt webbing;  

• Unbuckle the vehicle seat belt;   

• Open ClickTight;  

• Remove the vehicle seat belt completely from the car seat belt path; and 

• Release the vehicle shoulder belt.  

No, Britax does not recommend using both LATCH/LUAS and the vehicle seat belt simultaneously. You should use only one installation method—either LATCH/LUAS or the vehicle seat belt—as using both can interfere with the seat's ability to perform correctly in a crash.

Both LATCH/LUAS and the vehicle seat belt are safe installation methods when used correctly and independently of one another. The best method is the one that provides a secure and proper fit in your vehicle. Always refer to your vehicle's owner’s manual and the car seat manual to determine the best installation method for your situation.

You can help ensure your car seat is correctly installed by consulting a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST). They can assist you in selecting the right seat, using it correctly, and properly installing it. To find a CPST or a certified installation check station near you, visit the Transport Canada website.

No, current Britax car seats are not compatible with inflatable seat belts. If your vehicle is equipped with inflatable seat belts, we recommend using the Lower Anchorage (LUAS) system (within the weight limits) or installing the car seat in a position that does not have an inflatable seat belt. Always refer to your car seat manual for the most accurate guidance. The Ford Motor Company (Ford and Lincoln vehicles) Inflatable seat belt system is approved for use, in vehicles certified for the United States and Canada, with the following BRITAX models: Pioneer, Frontier CLICKTIGHT, and Pinnacle CLICKTIGHT harness-2-boosters. Any models not expressly listed above are not approved for use with the Ford Inflatable seat belt system or any other inflatable seat belt system. For more information regarding the installation of an above-noted approved model with Inflatable seat belts, please click here to contact Customer Service.

Using the top tether significantly improves the stability of the car seat and helps reduce the risk of injury by limiting the forward movement during a crash. In Canada, the use of the top tether is required for forward-facing Britax harnessed car seats. 

No, the top tether is not designed to be used with rear-facing car seat installations. The top tether is specifically designed for use in forward-facing harness mode to enhance safety.

When the top tether is not in use, store the excess webbing in the attached elastic strap or the tether storage compartment located on the back of some of the Britax car seats. This helps ensure the tether is safely out of the way and ready for use when needed.

If your car seat was involved in a moderate or severe crash, discontinue use immediately. For minor crashes, refer to the NHTSA guidelines to determine if the seat is still safe to use.

According to the NHTSA, a minor crash is one in which ALL of the following apply: 

• The vehicle was able to be driven away from the crash site. 

• The vehicle door nearest the car seat was not damaged. 

• None of the passengers in the vehicle sustained any injuries in the crash. 

• If the vehicle has air bags, the air bags did not deploy during the crash; and 

• There is no visible damage to the car seat. 

• NEVER use a car seat that has been involved in a moderate to severe crash. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions. 

The Date of Manufacture and Expiration Date for your Britax® car seat can be found on a label located on the seat itself. Typically, this label is placed under the seat, on the side, or on the back of the car seat shell. Refer to your car seat manual for the exact location.

The expiration date for your Britax car seat is generally 6 to 10 years from the Date of Manufacture, depending on the model. Refer to your car seat manual for the exact timeframe. It’s important to discontinue use of the car seat once it reaches its expiration date to help ensure your child's safety.

Expiration dates help ensure that your child is always using a car seat that meets current safety standards. Materials such as plastics and foams can degrade after the expiration timeframe, reducing the seat's effectiveness in protecting your child. Additionally, safety standards and technologies evolve, meaning an older seat may not provide the same level of protection as a newer model.

Once your car seat has expired, it should no longer be used. To prevent it from being used by someone else, Britax recommends dismantling the seat by cutting the harness and removing the cover, then recycling the plastic shell if possible. Some communities offer car seat recycling programs, or you can check with local waste management for proper disposal guidelines.

To find out which Britax car seats meet flammability standards without the use of added flame-retardant (FR) chemicals in their covers, please refer to our Naturally FR landing page. You can also find this information on the Comparison Chart.

Britax uses a tightly woven fabric construction that is naturally flame-retardant, which helps reduce your child’s exposure to certain chemicals. While all car seats MUST meet the same flammability standard, our approach avoids the need for added flame-retardant chemicals, offering a safer alternative. 

Yes, the tightly woven fabric construction of your naturally flame-retardant cover is safe for machine washing and drying. Since there is no added FR chemical treatment, you don’t have to worry about the agitation cycle breaking it down. For best results, follow the care label instructions and replace the cover after 30 washes to maintain optimal quality and prevent fading. 

To clean your SafeWash cover, secure all hook and loop fasteners before washing. Machine wash on a delicate cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Tumble dry and remove promptly. Avoid ironing, bleaching, or dry cleaning. For the best results, and to prevent fading, replace the cover after 30 washes.

All Britax car seats with integrated 5-point harness systems are certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft when used in harness mode. Belt-positioning booster mode is not certified for use on aircraft. Follow your user guide instructions to properly install the car seat on an airplane.

Extended rearward-facing travel offers significant safety benefits by providing better protection for a child’s head, neck, and spine in the event of a collision. When a child is rear facing, the force of a crash is more evenly distributed across the entire body, reducing the risk of serious injury. Britax® recommends keeping your child in a rear-facing position for as long as possible within the car seat's height and weight limits.

Britax does not recommend using a secondhand car seat unless you are certain of its complete history. A secondhand car seat may have been involved in a crash, could have missing or damaged parts, or might not meet current safety standards. For your child's safety, it is best to use a new car seat or one that you are sure has never been compromised.

No, Britax car seats are designed, tested, and certified to meet the safety standards of specific countries or regions. Using a car seat from outside the country you live in may not provide the appropriate level of protection and could be illegal. See applicable guidance from Transport Canada here.

Yes. The seat is still structurally safe to use if the foam is positioned in the same place it was intended for. Sometimes taping the foam in place is suggested to prevent it from wiggling. Taping the foam does not compromise the safety of the car seat.

If your child unbuckles their seat or gets out of the harness, it’s crucial to address this behavior immediately for their safety. First, ensure the harness is snug and correctly positioned according to the car seat manual. If your child is old enough, clearly explain the dangers of unbuckling or escaping the harness, emphasizing that staying secure is essential for their protection in a crash. If this behavior continues, consider using behavioral strategies, such as positive reinforcement, or consult a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) for additional guidance.

No, we do not allow children to wear bulky winter coats or jackets while secured in a car seat. Bulky clothing can create a gap between the harness and your child's body, preventing the harness from fitting snugly and securely, which compromises safety. Instead, dress your child in thinner layers and cover them with a blanket after they are properly harnessed. This helps ensure the harness can be tightened appropriately, providing optimal protection.

The anti-rebound bar is required in Canada for rear-facing convertible & all-in-one car seat installations; however, it MUST be removed for forward-facing installations. Follow your user guide instructions to properly install the car seat with the anti-rebound bar.

Ensure that the child restraint and belts or straps do not interfere with the opening and closing of the vehicle door. Consult the vehicle user guide for installation guidance.

Always follow the care instructions provided in the manual and/or on the fabric label to help ensure proper cleaning and maintenance. All the naturally flame-retardant Britax car seat covers are safe to machine wash and dry. Learn more here.

If your vehicle does not have a LATCH/LUAS system, secure the child restraint using the vehicle’s seat belt according to the car seat's installation instructions.

No, we do not offer special snow tires for our strollers.

No. Britax car seats should be installed using only one installation method – either the vehicle’s seat belt and car seat tether (if anchor is available) or lower anchors. Always refer to the car seat user guide with any questions.

The use of non-Britax accessories (e.g., covers, inserts, toys, accessories, or tightening devices) is not approved by Britax. Using non-Britax accessories can affect the safety performance of the car seat in a crash and may void your warranty. For optimal safety and to maintain your warranty, always refer to your Britax car seat user guide or contact customer service.

Please visit our Warranty Policy page for more information, review the information contained within your user guide, or contact customer service.

You may download your user guide here or contact customer service.

It has come to our attention that there are websites fraudulently posing as Britax, which claim to sell our products at deeply discounted prices. Please beware that these sites are likely scams, as they are not authorized retailers. As part of our promise to be there from the very first day, we want to bring this to your attention. We also want you to know that you can find information for Canadian products on our website: https://www.britax.ca/. Our authorized retailer websites are searchable here: https://www.britax.ca/find-a-retailer. We urge you to reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns about the website you are viewing or ordering Britax products on here: https://www.britax.ca/contact-us. We are here to assist you.