From birth car seats: What you need to know
From what to look for and the latest on the market in from birth car seats
What to look for
The most important thing to consider when buying any car seat is safety. Make sure the one you choose conforms to ECE Regulation 44.04 (or R 44.03) or to the new i-Size regulation, R129. Look for the ‘E’ mark label on the seat.
Look for good side impact protection, a comfortable carry handle and covers that are removable and washable. Make sure the seat is comfortable and snug, many come with a special newborn insert to use in the early weeks.
All from birth car seats are rear-facing, and will fit your baby past their first birthday. Virtually all models can be used as a travel system too, which means that you can click them onto your pushchair’s chassis for convenience. From birth car seats can often come as part of a bundle with a pram or pushchair.
Need to know
Make sure you choose a seat that’s compatible with your make and model of car. You can check this with your retailer or on the manufacturer’s website.
From birth car seats are usually suitable from birth to 13kg (29lbs). Try and keep your child in a safer rear-facing seat for as long as possible, but not if their head is only beginning to poke over the back of the seat.
From birth car seats can either be fitted with a seatbelt or Isofix. Some models require a base to slot into which costs extra.
Checklist
- Check for the ‘E’ mark to ensure it meets safety standards
- Think about whether you want to buy a car seat as part of a travel system
- Make sure that you choose a car seat that’s compatible with your car