Choosing the right car seat for your child is an important part of ensuring safety and comfort during car journeys. Here you get an overview of the different car seat types and tips on how to make the best choice for your child's needs.
Baby protection
Suitable for: Newborn to approx. 12 months.
- Weight: 0–13 kg
- Length: 40–75 cm
The baby seat is specially designed for the very smallest and is always used facing backwards. It can also be combined with a base for easier assembly and moving between car and pushchair. A baby seat must be replaced when the child can sit independently or outgrows the weight or height limit.
Advantages:
- Safe placement for newborns.
- Compatible with many stroller models.
- Provides extra protection with infant inserts.
Child car seat
Suitable for: Children from about 6 months to 4–5 years.
- Weight: 9–25/36 kg
- Length: 60–125 cm
The car seat is the next step after the baby seat and can be used both rear-facing and forward-facing, depending on the model. It is strongly recommended to use the chair facing backwards as long as possible for increased safety.
Advantages:
- Adapted for both rear and forward facing use.
- Many models have a long service life.
- Several mounting options such as ISOFIX and belt mounting.
Booster seat & booster cushion
Suitable for: Children from about 4 years old up to 12 years old.
- Weight: 15–36 kg
- Length: 100–150 cm
The last car seat your child needs. It is used forward-facing and helps place the seat belt correctly over the child's shoulders and hips.
Advantages:
- Safe and comfortable for older children.
- Easy to mount and move between cars.
- Suitable for longer trips.
Assembly types
It is important that the car seat is fitted correctly to provide optimal protection. Here are the most common methods:
- ISOFIX mounting: A safe and simple system with metal fasteners that keep the seat firmly in place.
- Base mount: Perfect for baby restraints that are often used in various cars.
- Belt mounting: A flexible option if the car lacks ISOFIX mounts.
Placement in the car
- Rear-facing position: Recommended up to at least 4-5 years of age to reduce the load on the head and neck in the event of a collision.
- Forward-facing position: Suitable for ages 4 and up, but only used when the child has outgrown rear-facing seats.
- Back seat or front seat: Both are safe, but always disconnect the airbag when in the front seat position.
Tips for choosing the right car seat
- Age, weight and height: Choose a seat that matches your child's current and future needs.
- Compatibility with the car: Check that the seat fits the car's mounting system.
- Test the chair: Try different models to ensure that it is easy to assemble and that the child sits comfortably.
- Certification: Make sure the seat is approved according to ECE R44 or R129 (i-Size).
A car seat is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment for your child. By choosing the right model and using it correctly, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for all car journeys.
