Baby Car Seat Cushions provide comfort as well as increased safety. Long car trips and uncomfortable seats are no fun for anybody, let alone a child who already asks “are we there yet?” every five seconds.
However, it’s highly likely that you’ll come across cushions that claim they’re safe for the car when they really aren’t. As important as comfort is, safety should be your number one priority.
In general, after-market accessories like cushions and car seat toys aren’t recommended for safety reasons. Despite this, there are car seat cushions on the market that are considered safe, and as your child gets older, the safety risk decreases (source).
Based on our testing, we believe Janabebe is the best car seat cushions for infants, since it’s hypoallergenic, and provides ample head and neck support. While the unicorn cushion is best for older children.
However, depending on the age of your child, one cushion on our list may not be as ideal as another. After you review our top choices, you may read about the different cushion types, how to use them safely, and what to look out for when shopping for those.
Below to simplify your search we listed Top 3 Baby Car Seat Cushions
1.Eddie Bauer Infant Head Cushion – Grows with your Baby
2.Nuby Reversible Infant Pillow – Ideal for Both Summer & Winter
3.JANABEBE Infant Cushion – Hypoallergenic
Baby Car Seat Cushions
1.Eddie Bauer Infant Head Support – Grows With Your Baby
![10 Best Baby Car Seat Cushions [Plus Toddlers & Kids] 1](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=carseatsmom0e-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=B01DLPA67W "10 Best Baby Car Seat Cushions [Plus Toddlers & Kids] 1"){kind=small}
It’s also considered a 2-in-1 cushion, which means it can grow with your little one. This is nice because you’re ensured to get a few years of use with it.
The padding is plush enough to give added comfort but thin enough not to cause airway obstruction. It also has a head and neck support pillow to keep your infant’s head in place when the car is in motion.
Its cover is made with a blend of polyester and cotton with 100 percent polyester filling. The cushion is also machine-washable which is nice because, let’s face it, babies are a living mess.
What We Like
- Cute design
- Easily washable
- Grows with your child
- Easy to place in the car seat
- Snaps in place for security
What We Don’t Like
- Not ideal for sweaty babies
- Doesn’t accommodate newborns well
2.Nuby Reversible Infant Pillow – Ideal for Both Summer & Winter
![10 Best Baby Car Seat Cushions [Plus Toddlers & Kids] 2](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=carseatsmom0e-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07JMK7965 "10 Best Baby Car Seat Cushions [Plus Toddlers & Kids] 3"){kind=small}
Its warm side is made of terry cloth and the reverse is smooth polyester. The head/neck support pillow is detachable as well, so you can remove it once your little one outgrows the need.
If your little one is tall but not quite ready for no head support, this baby car seat pillow is also adjustable. Because the pad is also waterproof, it’s ideal for inevitable diaper leaks.
It also comes in three different designs, so you’re sure to find one that compliments your baby’s car seat. Installation is fairly easy with this one. The harness straps fit over the sides and there’s a hole where the buckle can be fed through to keep it in place.
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Amazon.com
Amazon.com
What We Like
- Reversible to be weather-friendly
- Waterproof
- Different designs to choose from
- The headrest is adjustable and detachable
- Easy to place into the seat
What We Don’t Like
- Might be too cushy for newborns
- Side supports are big/may not be suitable for older babies
3.JANABEBE Infant Cushion – Hypoallergenic
![10 Best Baby Car Seat Cushions [Plus Toddlers & Kids] 5](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=carseatsmom0e-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=B01MSQY8LO "10 Best Baby Car Seat Cushions [Plus Toddlers & Kids] 9"){kind=small}
It’s very cushy on the sides but is thin enough to keep your baby in a safe breathing position in their seat.
The fabric is breathable and has hypoallergenic properties. This makes it a good contender for little ones with sensitive skin.
The entire cushion comes in three pieces: one for the head, one for their back and one for their underside. The separate pieces make it easier to place in your infant’s car seat and each piece hooks together with velcro.
The fact that they separate also means that the cushion has the ability to grow with your child. The cushion is machine-washable as long as you do so in cold water. It’s not recommended to be run through the dryer, so hang-drying is best. If you need to iron it for any reason, you can do so on the mild setting.
While this cushion works best with Maxi-Cosi car seats, it will fit well in other brands too. If you’re unsure if it will fit, it’s always worth contacting your car seat manufacturer.
What We Like
- Plenty of designs to choose from
- Super comfy, but still safe
- Easy to install in seat
- Hypoallergenic fabric
- Fits in most car seats
What We Don’t Like
- Side pillows are thick
- Doesn’t meet flame retardant standards
4.Brica Cool Cuddle Head and Body Support – Keeps Baby Cool
It’s made of 100 percent polyester and is designed to be breathable. The fabric wicks away moisture, which is really handy for keeping baby cool.
![10 Best Baby Car Seat Cushions [Plus Toddlers & Kids] 7](https://carseatsmom.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Brica-Cool-Cuddle-Head-and-Body-Support-for-Car-Seat-optimized.jpg "10 Best Baby Car Seat Cushions [Plus Toddlers & Kids] 12")
The head support is adjustable as well to ensure the product grows with your little one. The support is contoured for a most ergonomic fit too so you know you’re getting a product that is comfortable for your baby. These are designed to work with both three and five-point harness systems and will comfortably fit in most standard car seats.
What We Like
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- Has cooling properties
- Fabric is breathable
- Ergonomic fit
- Adjustable head support
What We Don’t Like
- Doesn’t work on narrow car seats
- Material pulls easily after washing
5.Lebogner Head and Support Pillow – Great for Cold Weather
![10 Best Baby Car Seat Cushions [Plus Toddlers & Kids] 9](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=carseatsmom0e-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=B01N2RGY2B "10 Best Baby Car Seat Cushions [Plus Toddlers & Kids] 15"){kind=small}
We recommend against the seat belt covers because these covers are generally not considered safe. Specifically, we recommend the head and support pillow because it’s contoured to fit your toddler’s body.
It’s made of a plush fleece which is nice for the wintertime, but may not be ideal if you live in a warmer climate. This pillow is designed to fit most standard car seats and the head support is adjustable and detachable as your child grows.
It’s also designed to fit all harness systems. The Lebogner head and support pillow comes with a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee and is supposed to be easy to install into your child’s seat. The fabric is machine-washable but should be hang-dried.
Amazon.com
What We Like
- Machine-washable fabric
- Has three different styles
- Satisfaction guarantee
- Adjustable and detachable head support
- Can wipe clean if needed
What We Don’t Like
- Too long for some car seats
- Not ideal for warmer climates
6.Unicorn Seat Belt Cover Cushion – Best For Older Kids
![10 Best Baby Car Seat Cushions [Plus Toddlers & Kids] 12](https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=carseatsmom0e-20&language=en_US&l=li3&o=1&a=B07RGNMX2G "10 Best Baby Car Seat Cushions [Plus Toddlers & Kids] 21"){kind=small}
I do want to make sure to mention that this product should only be used with big kids who no longer need a booster seat.
The pillow can be worn around the neck or to the side and helps prevent a sore neck from unexpected car naps. To secure it to the seatbelt, you simply detach the velcro and then reattach it over the seat belt strap. The pillow is considered “one size fits all” and is made of cotton and polyester.
What We Like
- Several ways to use it
- Good for big kids and adults
- Helps prevent a sore neck
- Very soft and comfortable
- Easy to install onto the seatbelt
What We Don’t Like
- May fit loosely on the seatbelt
- Very bulky
Different Types of Cushions
You’re going to need to cater your choice to your child’s age and needs. There are several types of cushions that work for certain age groups. There are also different styles that cater to specific needs.
Infant Support
While most infant car seat carriers come with extra cushion support, sometimes they just aren’t up to par. There are plenty of infant support cushions available that provide extra cushion for delicate babies. These supports are typically designed as a car seat cushion insert. They fit right into the seat and your baby lays right on top.
It’s especially important to be mindful when looking for an infant cushion, though. Because newborns and infants are still learning how their body works, they’re more susceptible to choking and suffocation. When looking, try to find an infant cushion with firm cushioning that doesn’t give easily to pressure. You’re going to want to find one that won’t cover your babe’s nose or mouth if they happen to turn their head to the side.
Head Stabilizers
Head stabilizing cushions are meant for toddlers and young children who have a habit of falling asleep in the car. These attach to the sides of a car seat and lay across your child’s forehead. They’re meant to keep your child’s head from bobbing forward when they fall asleep.
Neck Pillows
Neck pillows are usually U-shaped and wrap around the neck to provide extra comfort. These are good for older children and teens but should be avoided for babies and toddlers. Until your child has solid head and neck control and can hold their head up while sleeping in the car, you shouldn’t use one of these.
Cooling Pads
These are great if you live in a warm climate or have a generally sweaty baby. They’re designed to fit throughout the back of your child’s car seat and release a cooling sensation to prevent moisture. Usually, they’re filled with cooling gel, but others may use special breathable fabric.
Seat Belt Pillows
You need to be very careful with seat belt pillows. Car seatbelt cushions should only be used by older children or preteens. If they aren’t properly positioned, they pose a serious safety concern in young children. In some cases, seat belt pillows have caused children to slip out of their car seat in a crash.
Standard Cushions
If you’re looking for a cushioned car seat cover for an older child, a standard cushion is best. These attach right to the bottom of the car’s backseat and provide extra support
Price Comparison
Safety Guidelines for Car Seat Cushions
Because non-regulated products are so controversial, it’s important to make sure you’re choosing a truly safe product. There are some seriously vital things to keep in mind in terms of safety guidelines.
Infant Support Cushions
Like I mentioned above, it’s vital to be extremely mindful when looking at infant support cushions. Nothing should come between your baby and their harness. This can cause an undetected loose fit which can be detrimental in case of a car accident.
Also, head support cushions can push your infants head forward too far. This can cause their airway to become blocked. Before purchasing, check with your car seat manufacturer for a list of approved infant support cushions.
Headrests
Headrests for toddlers and small children are a popular choice among parents. However, they can actually cause more harm than good. In some cases, they interfere with the car’s side impact protection and can make head and neck injuries worse in case of a crash.
Shoulder Pads and Harness Covers
Shoulder pads and harness covers can be dangerous if not used correctly. In many cases, car seats will come with shoulder pads, but can only be used until a certain weight limit. Manufacturers will also have a list of approved after-market harness pads that they can give you. It’s important to follow these guidelines because too much padding can cause a loose harness fit.
Additional Safety Tips
Along with the listed guidelines above, there are a few other things you should bear in mind:
After-market products may void warranty
Unless you have expressed permission from the manufacturer, using an after-market product will likely void the seat’s warranty.
Nothing between the harness
Yes, I already mentioned this but it’s seriously important to remember. Nothing should come between your child and their harness.
Proper positioning
For your older children, seat belt attachment pillows can be okay as long as they’re properly placed. These shouldn’t go any lower than your child’s shoulder/neck area.
Buyer’s Guide
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It’s almost time to start shopping but before you do, there are some things to keep in mind while you look.
Age of Child
The age of your child is one of the most important things to consider. Buying a cushion that is age-appropriate will not only provide optimal comfort, but it maximizes the safety of your child as well.
Safety
Safety is, of course, the most important thing you should keep in mind. As long as you keep the safety guidelines we mentioned above in mind, you shouldn’t have an issue choosing a satisfactory cushion.
Ease of Cleaning
Kids are messy no matter what age they are. Because of this, it’s important to find products that aren’t going to be a huge hassle to clean. When looking at cushions, be sure to find ones that are machine-washable and dryer safe.
Price
And of course, keeping your budget in mind is key. You shouldn’t have to worry about spending a ton of money just to find something to keep your child comfortable. Luckily, cushions for kids are generally pretty affordable.
Easy Installation
Lastly, convenience comes into play. You’re going to want to choose a product that isn’t a total headache to install. This won’t be a major issue with cushions because they typically just attach right to the seat belt or car seat.
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Walmart.com
Walmart.com
Amazon.com
Amazon.com
Amazon.com
Riding Along in Comfort
Riding in the car shouldn’t make your child miserable. Car seat cushions are a nice way to ensure your little one’s comfort while on long rides. However, it’s important to bear in mind your child’s safety when shopping.
These products aren’t regulated by any government agency, which means they’re to be used at one’s own discretion. How do you feel about car seat cushions? Is there a good one we may have missed? Let us know!
