New parents quickly realize how awkward it can be to safely situate a kid in their car seat—especially if the vehicle is on the small side. And if your little one is wiggly or uncooperative? Good luck. Of course, if you had the foresight to invest in a rotating car seat, you may not have to deal with this daily struggle at all. These innovative models actually swivel around, so you can buckle baby in and gently lift them out without contorting your body or straining your back.

So do you actually need a swivel car seat—and, more importantly, are they safe? Find the answers to those questions below, then browse our picks of the game-changing rotating car seats available now.

In this article:
What is a rotating car seat?
Are rotating car seats safe?
What to consider when buying a rotating car seat
The best rotating car seats

What is a Rotating Car Seat?

A rotating car seat—also known as a swivel car seat—has a fixed base and a seat that spins up to 360 degrees. This innovative swivel feature gives parents easy access to their child, as they can strap baby in and remove them from the seat without climbing inside the car. Better yet, some models also let you transition the car seat from rear-facing mode to a forward-facing position with the press of a button (no re-installation necessary). Rotating models offer many of the same features as traditional convertible car seats, and are typically installed using a LATCH base system or a seat belt path.

Are Rotating Car Seats Safe?

Yes, as long as it’s installed correctly, and is suitable for your child’s age and weight, rotating car seats are safe to use. Car seats that swivel are subject to the same federal safety standards as other car seats. Before a particular model hits the shelves, it’s tested to ensure that it meets National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) guidelines.

What to Consider When Buying a Rotating Car Seat

Choosing the right car seat for your child can be an arduous task, and different types have different benefits and drawbacks. Here are some factors to consider before deciding on a rotating car seat.

Rotating mechanism. The best rotating car seats have a smooth swivel mechanism, and some options can even be operated with one-hand.
Price. Rotating car seats are relatively new to the US market and are equipped with state of the art technology. But as with any new innovation, this comes with a hefty price tag. Swivel car seat prices start at over $300, and high-end models can cost anywhere up to $650.
Convenience. No doubt about it, rotating car seats are the most convenient option out there. Why? Thanks to the swivel function you can turn the seat 360 degrees to face you as you buckle baby in or remove them from the seat. This is less physically taxing, and is particularly helpful for folks with a disability or mobility issues.
Longevity. Swivel car seats are typically convertible, and can be used in a rear-facing or forward-facing position, meaning you can use it from day one well into toddlerhood. However, it’s important to note that many car seats that rotate have a lower weight limit than their non-swivelling counterparts, meaning that you may need to switch up the seat configuration sooner.
Size. Rotating car seats tend to be slightly larger than traditional models, as the swivel mechanism adds an extra component to the base. In addition, given that the car seat is designed to swing outward for easy access, this type may not be the best option for families that require multiple car seats or booster seats.

The Best Rotating Car Seats

Now that you’ve gotten to grips with what a rotating car seat actually is, take a moment to look at the five game-changing options on the market. Each product has been vetted by The Bump team and meets the mark in terms of safety, convenience and comfort.

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Plus, more from The Bump:

The Best Infant Car Seats

Best Travel Car Seats for Your Next Trip

How to Install a Car Seat Safely

Car Seat Safety