The best baby car mirrors to keep a close eye on your youngster

best baby car mirrors
@MOTHER&BABY

by Emily Gilbert |
Updated on

When you’re travelling with your baby, it’s natural to want to keep a close eye on them at all times. After all, your little one’s comfort and safety are your top priorities, especially when you’re behind the wheel. That’s where baby car mirrors come in – they are an absolute game-changer for parents on the go. These clever accessories give you peace of mind by letting you see your baby without having to turn around or take your eyes off the road.

Typically, baby car mirrors attach easily to the headrest of your rear-facing car seatand provide a wide-angle view of your little one. This means you can quickly check that they’re safe, happy, and comfortable throughout the journey, whether it’s a short trip to the shops or a longer drive. For any parent who’s ever felt that pang of worry while driving, having a baby car mirror is like having an extra set of eyes dedicated to your baby – helping you stay calm and focused while still being connected to your little bundle of joy.

Best design: Brica by Munchkin Baby In-Sight Car Mirror – Available to buy on Amazon • Best budget: Halfords Backseat Baby Mirror – Available to buy from Halfords • Best eye-catching design: Royal Rascals Baby Car Mirror – Available to buy on Amazon

How we tried and tested these baby car mirrors

To fully evaluate these baby car mirrors, each one was tested by parents over the course of a month with their children aged between 0 and 7 years old. They considered various factors including how easy the mirrors were to use, since kids need something simple and straightforward they can engage with independently. The parents also assessed durability, adjustability, viewing angles, and installation process to ensure each mirror fits securely and stays in place during the journey. We paid close attention to the weight of each mirror, as a lightweight design can make installation easier and reduce strain on the car’s headrest.

Car suitability was another important consideration, with testers checking how well each mirror fits different types of vehicles, from compact cars to larger family models, ensuring compatibility no matter what you drive. Price was carefully evaluated as well, comparing the cost against features and overall value to help you find the best option within your budget. We asked parents to rate each mirror out of 5, providing honest feedback based on real-world use.

Some mirrors were tested primarily at home, while others were taken on holiday, giving us insight into their portability and performance in different settings. By thoroughly examining these key aspects, we’ve been able to provide a detailed and reliable comparison, offering you the most comprehensive firsthand feedback from parents just like you.

The best baby car mirrors

Best overall baby mirror

Expert rating:
4.5
ONCO Baby Car Mirror for Back SeatAmazon
Price: $18.99
Alternative retailers
Walmart$26.67View offer

The ONCO Baby Car Mirror for Back Seat was awarded Silver for Best Safety Product at the Mother&Baby Awards 2024.

This 100% shatterproof baby car mirror is designed to give parents peace of mind and ensure the safest drive possible. Built for rear-facing car seats, it attaches securely to the back-seat headrest with adjustable straps that keep it firmly in place, no matter how bumpy the ride gets. With its clear, wide view and 360-degree rotation, you can always find the perfect angle to see your baby.

Many parents have found this mirror to be a game-changer. One customer was especially impressed by the size, clarity, and overall quality, noting how the mirror offers multiple viewing angles from the rearview mirror, a direct glance, and even the passenger sun visor. This setup made it easy for both parents to check in on their child from different positions in the car, with crystal-clear visibility every time.

Compared to other brands, especially those from supermarkets, this mirror stands out for its reliability and superior build. Thanks to its three different attachment options, it stays securely in place without slipping, making it a dependable essential for every car ride. If you're looking for a baby mirror that truly delivers on safety and visibility, this one comes highly recommended.

Read our full ONCO Baby Car Mirror for Back Seat review.

Pros

  • Shatterproof
  • Adjustable rotation
  • Safety first
  • Award-winning 
  • Easy to install

Cons

  • Doesn't fit in all cars
  • Expensive
  • One colour
<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Dimensions: </p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>24.5 x 7 x 17.5 cm</p>
<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Weight:</p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>349g</p>
<p>Car seat suitability:</p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>Rear-facing</p>
Material:<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Acrylic</p>
  • The 360° rotation allows you to modify the mirror’s angles with minimum effort to fit your and your babies needs.
  • Choose between 3 different attachment options to ensure your mirror firmly stays in place and won’t wobble during car journeys. The adjustable straps are easy to install and remove.
  • Designed to keep you and your baby safe.

2.

Brica by Munchkin Baby In-Sight Car Mirror

Best design

Expert rating:
4.0

If you're looking for a baby car mirror that not only helps you keep an eye on your little one but also keeps them entertained during the ride, the Brica by Munchkin is a fantastic choice. Available in a variety of themes and colors, including fun animal designs that gently swing with the motion of the car, it adds both function and charm to your journeys. For nighttime drives, there's even a version with a built-in night light to soothe and comfort your baby in the dark.

Parents love how this mirror transforms the travel experience. One parent tester shared how their baby, who usually cries at the start of every journey, was completely engaged by the swinging animals. While the fussiness didn’t disappear entirely, the mirror kept their little one entertained for a solid 30 to 45 minutes, especially after a nap, making car rides far more manageable.

With engaging features and thoughtful design, the Brica by Munchkin mirror is more than just practical. It's a travel companion that brings comfort to both parents and babies. Many say it’s well worth the investment for easier, happier journeys.

Pros

  • Fun design
  • Very large mirror

Cons

  • Some parents struggled to find the right postition
<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Dimensions:</p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>‎7.5 x 30 x 31cm</p>
<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Weight:</p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>440g</p>
<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Car seat suitability:</p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>Rear-facing</p>

Best budget

Expert rating:
4.5
Halfords Backseat Baby MirrorHalfords

Offered at a bargain price, this backseat baby car mirror from Halfords is a practical and reliable choice for parents. It attaches securely and easily to any headrest without obstructing your rear visibility, and features foam padding on the back panel to protect your car’s interior. With 360-degree rotation and a wide viewing angle, it allows you to keep an eye on your baby while driving.

One parent who purchased it for both cars shared how essential it quickly became for solo trips with their baby. They found the straps held it securely in place, and while the mirror is made of plastic with a bit of flex, the adjustability worked well and it provided a clear, consistent view. For the price, they felt it did a great job and wouldn’t want to drive without it.

This is a solid, no-fuss option that delivers on quality, visibility, and value, making it one of the best budget-friendly baby mirrors available.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Adjustable

Cons

  • Isn't fully flexible
<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Dimensions:</p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>9.5 x 22 x 24cm</p>
Car seat suitability:<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Front-facing and rear-facing</p>
Weight: 347g

Best for distracting babies

Expert rating:
4.5
Taf Toys Koala in Car Play CentreAmazon
Price: $31.99

This Taf Toys Car Play Centre combines a high-quality, baby-safe curved mirror with soft, engaging activity toys to keep rear-facing babies both visible and entertained on the go. It features a crinkling rainbow, rattling Kimmy the Koala, and Scotty the Snail with a gentle chime bell and teether. Designed to make car rides more enjoyable, the mirror can be adjusted to match your baby's height and easily attaches to the headrest.

One reviewer shared how initially the movement of the toys while driving felt a bit distracting, but their baby quickly became more confident and even began falling asleep within minutes—something that had been impossible before. They also appreciated the adjustability of the toys, which made it easier to cater to their baby's needs as they grew.

With multiple themes available and thoughtful design elements that soothe and engage, this mirror is a helpful addition for stress-free journeys with your little one.

Pros

  • Includes baby toys
  • Easy to fit

Cons

  • Static mirror
<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Product Dimensions:</p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>30 x 34 x 7.3cm</p>
<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Weight: </p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>460g</p>
‎0 - 8 years

Best size

Expert rating:
5.0

This baby car mirror installs in under a minute by simply attaching the straps to the headrest of a rear seat. Once in place, the hinge allows you to easily pivot the mirror until you find the perfect viewing angle to see your baby clearly. Its slender convex shape offers a wide-angle view, helping you keep an eye on your little one while driving and giving you peace of mind.

One parent shared how much they love this mirror, saying it allows them to drive with confidence while still being able to see their child in the back. Although the instructions suggest attaching it to the adjacent seat, their car only has two backseat headrests. Instead, they secured it to the same headrest as the car seat, and found that it worked perfectly. It stayed secure, their baby enjoyed looking at his reflection, and it made every drive easier and more reassuring. This mirror provides a smart, simple solution for safer travel with young passengers and comes highly recommended by parents who use it daily.

Pros

  • Wide-angle mirror
  • Adjustable straps

Cons

  • Some parents found it difficult to move
<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Dimensions: </p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>22 x 6 x 18 cm</p>
<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Weight:</p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>263g</p>
<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Car seat suitability:</p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>Rear-facing</p>

Best for all car models

Expert rating:
4.5
Diono easy viewAmazon
Price: $13.88
https://redirect.viglink.com?key=eb32892e8a408657289072c26bd927b5&prodOvrd=PCR&opt=false&u=DRZHQksDHUpPFkMeT1dZWlNKTR5UXQ4dXxJLfVtYDApPdlNLQB8zUQRDHQsABRpwWVtJGnECQBsxBV9XQxtIL1pASlZASF4ORh1qU1RFH35YU15cBB9lCwhPV0VNUVYKAQoMBFA%3D&x=v1&prdId=10618864039&barcode=VVIFBQ8OAFMMUQUBCQA%3D
Alternative retailers
Target$14.99View offer
Macy's$14.99View offer
QVC$19.82View offer

The Dioni baby car mirror is designed to give you the clearest view of your child, featuring an extra-wide frame and a convex lens for maximum visibility. Its 360-degree fully adjustable pivot makes it easy to find the perfect angle, and it fits securely in any type of car. This model has also earned awards for its design and performance, making it excellent value for money.

One parent who bought this for her little one, mentioned how effective the mirror has been, noting that its large size allows them to see their baby clearly and completely. They appreciated how securely it fits to the seat, eliminating the need to constantly readjust or worry about the mirror falling off the window. For them, it was a quick and simple one-time setup that worked perfectly from the start.

Reliable fit, with clear visibility, the Dioni mirror is a smart choice for parents who want safety and convenience on every journey.

Pros

  • Attaches to car seats securely
  • Shatterproof

Cons

  • Mirror marks easily
<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Dimensions: </p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>7.87 x 28.45 x 21.08 cm</p>
<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Weight:</p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>540g</p>
<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Car seat suitability:</p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>Rear-facing</p>

Easiest to fit

Expert rating:
4.5
Funbliss Baby Car MirrorAmazon

Rrp: $12.99

Price: $9.97

This extra-large convex mirror provides a wide-angle, shatter-resistant view of your baby while you drive. It is crash-tested and distortion-free, with a slim frame that complements any car interior. The adjustable strapping system makes installation quick and easy, taking only seconds to secure.

Some parents appreciate the generous size of this mirror, which allows for a clear view of the baby through the car’s rearview mirror. It’s also large enough for the baby to see themselves, helping to keep them entertained during the journey. The mirror tilts and swivels smoothly to the perfect position and stays firmly in place once tightened. Its high quality combined with an affordable price makes it a favorite choice for families looking for both safety and convenience.

Pros

  • Distortion free
  • Shatterproof

Cons

  • Doesn't magnify
<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Dimensions: </p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>25 x 28 x 10cm</p>
<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Weight: </p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>431g</p>
Car seat suitability:<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Rear-facing</p>

8.

Royal Rascals Baby Car Mirror

Best eye-catching design

Expert rating:
4.5
ROYAL RASCALS Baby Car Mirror for Back SeatAmazon

Available in black or safety yellow, this shatterproof mirror gives you a clear and reliable view of your precious little one. It fits any adjustable headrest perfectly and features a sturdy, anti-judder mount along with 360-degree rotation, allowing you to find the best angle with ease. Plus, every purchase includes a bonus safety sign. It’s no surprise this mirror is a bestseller.

One mum to a little girl recently shared her experience. Although her daughter wanted the black mirror, she chose the yellow version because of its safety benefits. The bright yellow color catches your eye in the rearview mirror, helping drivers focus more quickly and spend less time looking away from the road. While her daughter was initially mortified by the color, she later admitted it was the best mirror they had ever used.

Pros

  • Very eye catching
  • Anti-judder mount

Cons

  • Reflection is a little dark
<p>Dimensions: </p><meta charset="utf-8"><meta charset="utf-8"><p><strong>‎</strong>24.5 x 17.5 x 5cm</p>
<meta charset="utf-8"><p>Weight: </p><meta charset="utf-8"><p>347g</p>
Car seat suitability: <meta charset="utf-8"><p>Rear-facing</p>

Why do I need a baby car mirror?

In line with UK laws, parents can only use a front-facing car seat when their child is at least 9kg in weight. When your baby is still young and facing the back of your car, you may not be able to see what’s going on. This can be stressful if your baby isn’t comfortable in cars, or you want to keep an eye on them.

Even as your baby gets older and can switch to a front-facing car seat, it’s not recommended to look over your shoulder or change any mirrors in your car to view your child. No parents want to have to deal with extra stress on a journey or drive.

This is where baby car mirrors come in handy - so that you can always keep safety at the front of your mind for both you and your baby, even when your baby eventually grows out of a seat.

What types of baby car mirror are there?

There are two main types of car mirrors, which depends on what car seat you’ve already got in your car. Baby car mirrors are used with rear-facing seats or front-facing seats.

Baby car mirrors made for rear-facing seats will often attach to the headrest of the backseat. This means you can peer through your rear-view mirror to see your baby through the baby car mirror. You will have to adjust the angle of your baby car mirror so that you can see the best view for you. These mirrors can come in various shapes and sizes, so you just need to get the one that works best for your family friendly car and your baby.

When you have a front-facing car seat, there are baby car mirrors that you can attach to your rear-view mirror or visor so that you can have a better line of sight without changing the angle of your car mirrors.

How do I install a baby car mirror?

Installing a baby car mirror doesn't have to be as scary as it seems. Often, many mirrors will come with ties or straps to wrap around the car headrest, which you should be able to tighten. Make sure it's on securely so that it won't fall off or move around.

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