If you're preparing for a new baby or replacing gear for a growing child, you’ve likely noticed something frustrating: prices for car seats, strollers, and other baby gear are climbing—fast. Two major changes are driving these increases: sweeping new tariffs and updated car seat safety standards. Here’s what’s happening, why it matters, and how you can shop wisely in 2025.
Why Are Baby Gear Prices Increasing?
In early 2025, the U.S. government implemented a new round of tariffs on a wide range of imported products—including baby gear. Most strollers, car seats, and similar items are manufactured in China, which means as of this article publish date, these products are now subject to tariffs as high as 145%.
The stated goal of these tariffs is to encourage domestic manufacturing, but the reality is that few U.S. factories currently produce car seats or strollers at scale. Instead of boosting local production, these tariffs are simply driving up costs for manufacturers—costs that are now being passed directly to parents and caregivers.
More than 85% of car seats and 97% of strollers sold in the U.S. are imported from China. That means nearly every family shopping for baby gear in 2025 is affected.
Which Brands Are Raising Prices?
Many well-known brands have already raised prices or are planning to do so soon. Here’s what we know so far:
Already Increased:
- BOB
- Britax
- Cybex
- Doona
- Evenflo
- Mifold
- Nuna
- Römer
- Uppababy
Effective May 11:
- Maxi-Cosi
- Baby Jogger
- Graco
Retailers are already seeing a surge of shoppers trying to lock in lower prices before the hikes kick in.
What About the New Car Seat Safety Standards?
As if the price hikes weren’t enough, 2025 also brings a significant change in car seat safety requirements. A new side-impact protection regulation, FMVSS 213a, goes into effect for all car seats manufactured on or after June 30, 2025.
The new standard focuses on improving protection for children in side-impact crashes, particularly for those weighing up to 40 pounds or up to 43.3 inches tall. Manufacturers are updating or redesigning their car seats to meet the new rules, including:
- Reinforced side-impact protection features for smaller kids
- New forward-facing minimum is 26.5 pounds
- Boosters will now have 40 pound/43.3" minimums
- Most infant seats will have 30 pound/32" maximums
It’s important to note: car seats made before June 30 are still legal to sell and use, but not all will meet the new safety standard.
What This Means for You
Right now, you're shopping during a transitional period. There are two types of car seats available:
- Seats that already meet FMVSS 213a
- Seats that do not meet the new standard but still comply with current legal requirements
The lower-priced seats available today are often from the second category. That doesn't mean they’re unsafe—but they may lack the newest advancements in side-impact protection. After June 30, you’ll see more FMVSS 213a-compliant models on shelves—but thanks to redesigns and ongoing tariffs, those seats are likely to cost more.
So, you’re faced with a choice:
- Buy now and save, knowing the seat is fully legal but may not offer the newest side-impact features.
- Wait for updated models, accepting a potentially higher price tag for the latest in crash protection.
How to Shop Smart Right Now
Here’s how to navigate this moment of change:
- Ask about compliance: Contact manufacturers or check product details to find out if a seat already meets FMVSS 213a.
- Buy before May: If you know what you want, shop soon to avoid the next round of price increases.
- Balance safety and budget: All car seats on store shelves today have passed the federal crash testing standards. But if the added side-impact protection is a priority for you, consider whether waiting is worth the extra cost.
- Check expiration dates: If you’re buying early and storing the seat, make sure the expiration won’t arrive before your child outgrows it.
- Use our Car Seat Finder Tool: Not sure where to start? Safe in the Seat’s Car Seat Finder Tool helps you choose the best seat based on your child’s age, size, vehicle, and budget. It’s like having a car seat buying guide personalized just for you.
To see a list of the car seats that already meet the new standards going into effect on June 30, 2025, tap here.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 baby gear market is being squeezed from two sides: steep new tariffs that make everyday items less affordable, and upcoming safety standards that require costly design updates. While these changes may feel overwhelming, informed decisions can help you shop smarter—and stretch your budget.
Whether you're buying your very first car seat or upgrading to a booster, it pays to stay ahead of the changes. If you’re feeling unsure, our team of certified CPSTs is here to help you navigate the options and make confident choices.
Need support? Book a 1:1 video consult with our certified experts.
Stay safe. Stay informed. And don’t let confusing policies derail your plans.
