How to choose a car seat for a child

When transporting children in a car, the safety factor comes first. For this reason, it was decided to develop special seats that can be securely attached to the interior of the car. This mount is strong and rigid, but the child will be comfortable in the seat. The product has a wide variety of options, which vary based on the weight of the passenger, how the device is secured, and the adjustments available.

The question of how to choose the right car seat for a child is really exciting for many modern parents. Realizing this fact, we decided to collect important parameters into one article so that the purchase process would not be accompanied by difficulties.

When choosing a chair, you should also rely on the technical parameters of the car itself, which attachment points are available. The information in the article will help you understand everything in more detail and make a smart purchase without risking the safety of your baby.

The main purchase criteria for a car child seat

There is no better way to protect your child in the event of an emergency while driving on the road than a child seat. If in the domestic field not all parents resort to such a purchase today, then foreign motorists have long ago introduced such a protective device into their everyday life. But even high-ranking foreigners can find themselves in a curious position.

Did you know that in 2008, actress Nicole Kidman was captured with a child in her arms while driving in a car. She was filmed by the ubiquitous paparazzi. Against the background of this news, many fans were outraged, believing that such behavior could not be called reasonable, and therefore disputes arose whether the actress should be forced to answer in accordance with the criminal code or to forgive her for the mistake.

Gradually, the culture of transporting children is gaining momentum in the territory of the Russian Federation. The main reason is deplorable statistics. The thing is that in case of road accidents, which are recorded at a speed of 50 km / h, the restraint device can exactly half to reduce the risk that the child will be hurt. For this reason, the desire of parents to understand the question of which car seat to choose for the child is the best, is relevant and natural.

But experts who are testing numerous tests of car child seats believe that the ideal option has not yet been created to date, but it is possible that you can find a completely appropriate seat for your baby. To understand which car seat to choose for a child, it is worth taking into account a lot of criteria, read information on the Internet, reviews from parents, watch videos of well-known crash tests in which models demanded in the market took part. In general, there are many things to do, but remember that the safety of the child is at stake, and therefore you should certainly not be lazy.

Mounting options

To date, there are 2 main options for fastening belts. It is a standard and ISOFIX. First of all, it is worthwhile to understand in advance whether it is worth choosing the Isofix option. It is possible that the usual machine straps will seem appropriate for you to use. The ISOFIX attachment is a specially designed rigid attachment system. This connection is represented as a pair of brackets that are located at the bottom of the car seat. They are inserted into special anchor brackets of the car body. Through numerous tests of products in case of road accidents, it was possible to understand that such options are safe. Indeed, ISOFIX is much more reliable than the standard solution.

Often, child car seats have other attachment points. As the manufacturers say, they are able to provide even more reliable protection for the baby. If this is a model with a retractable thrust element, then it is capable of ensuring the immobility of the automobile product, even if there is a frontal impact. But if we turn to the reviews on the Web, it becomes clear that the model is not always convenient in practice.

There is also a variation with anchor straps. Such chairs have additional fixing points, or they can be attached using a special strap equipped with a carabiner. The belt buckle can be placed either behind the seat headrest or on the luggage floor.

Let's look at another LATCH option. Often, this design is found in cars in America. In this case, the car seat is attached to the body itself, and not due to the brackets. There are special straps, hooks and locks. Before buying such a product, it is worth clarifying whether your car has such mounts, so that later there will be no misunderstanding.

A number of modern machines have safety latches, which is a requirement for them.

Child seat belts for cars

The child must be fastened using a non-standard seat belt, while the fasteners. Often, they can be made 1, 3 or 5 point. It is also possible that the fastening will be carried out at the expense of the safety table. All this is able to ensure that in an accident the load will be evenly distributed throughout the structure. Those. the child can be less injured.

Before buying, it is worth making sure that all locks are working, they are not broken and are convenient in practice. In the event of an accident, it may be necessary to release the child from the "captivity" of the belts as quickly as possible. It is also worth understanding that the belts should be such that the baby himself cannot unfasten them.

Car seat frame

A child seat for a car can be made of an aluminum or plastic frame. The first option has high strength properties. Those. in practice, it will also be safe, but at a higher price. True, modern manufacturers were able to produce high-quality plastic, and therefore car seats made of it are worthy competitors to their metal counterparts. Crash tests will be great proof that these are not just empty words.

Another option for a restraint device is a car seat that does not have a frame.The seat cover will be cheaper, more compact, but in an emergency it will not be able to protect the child from injury. A chair with a frame, be it aluminum or plastic, is much safer for the baby. It has a support that fixes the spinal column. The main load in case of a threat in the form of an accident or sharp braking will be transferred to the frame.

Backrest and headrest

An equally important parameter is the anatomy of the back. Those. this part of the chair must repeat exactly all the bends and bulges of the child's spine. This criterion is important if the child travels frequently. For the crumbs that need regular rest, you need to provide the device with a tilt adjuster. Due to this, the car seat will become a berth. Since the baby should be protected from the danger that threatens from each side, inspect those models where there is a large headrest, deep side elements.

Cover availability

This factor can affect the safety properties of the child during transportation. But this condition is also important for the passenger himself, since the baby can behave restlessly if there is an uncomfortable lining or poor material qualities are observed.

Car seat cover colors

Make sure the cover is made of quality material that will repel dirt and can be removed if necessary to wash. As a rule, the chair cover will be made on the basis of synthetic fabrics, having elements of natural fibers. But what to do if it is hot summer outside and the baby is constantly sweating. There are models that are equipped with cotton-based covers, which will increase the comfort properties for a young baby in the summer.

Safety standards and markings

If we talk about the properties of the reliability of the device as a whole, then we can draw one conclusion. Those car seats that have international certificates and special marks, for example, ECE R 44/04, are the safest.

This mark indicates that such restraints have successfully mastered crash tests and comply with the strictest standards that refer to the Unified European Standard in the 4th edition. Those. a car seat that has been certified will have the ECE R 44/04 label, which has a different look. The sign consists on the basis of obligatory notes. These are the European standard code, device type, group weight, country code number, certificate number, as well as the serial number of the device. The manufacturer itself can also be indicated.

It is important to know that the letter "E" and the number that is indicated in the circle speaks of the country where the device was issued a certificate. For example, if this is E1, then this is Germany, E 17 is Finland, and E4 is Holland.

For quality products that have a plastic case, the year of production may be applied. Such markings can be stamped or printed. Manufacturers put important information on the device. If the seat is fastened using standard car belts, then the algorithm for fastening the straps will also be indicated there. If this option is installed with your back in the direction of travel, then a warning sign will be placed in the headboard area.

When the device is installed in the direction or against the movement of the car, then the designation of the age or weight of the child must be indicated by the manufacturer. For example, the designation may refer to the fact that the product can be used from 1 year. Before purchasing, make sure that the marking of the child car seat corresponds to the necessary marks described above.

Also note that you need to familiarize yourself with the seller's documents, this must be a certificate of conformity.

Choosing a child restraint seat for a toddler: compliance with the certificate

In order to choose the right product for the child, as well as your car brand, you should familiarize yourself with the type of chair that is indicated in the certificate for it. As noted above, there are 3 types. Let's talk about them in more detail.

Universal certification

The device can be easily installed in machines that comply with ECE R14 and R16 standards. They are able to adjust the requirements for the installation of the product in the machine.

Semi-universal certification

In addition to standard safety measures, manufacturers also additionally equip chairs with different supports. It can be a telescopic limb. You need to check if this machine is included in the list of models that are compatible with it.

Special certification

In such a case, the restraints are certified due to their option and design. They can be used in strictly limited car models. Your vehicle must be marked on the list of models that fit it. But take into account that if the choice fell on a car seat that is universal, it is still worth checking your passport.

It is also important to determine the length of the standard straps in order to understand whether they are enough for fastening the baby. See how tightly and how well the device is attached to the back of the sofa. To do this, it is worth arranging a fitting for the car seat. Try putting your child in the car.

It will depend on the kid whether the design is suitable for this model or not. It is important that the child, when trying on this accessory, feels comfortable. If he likes a car seat, then on the road he will not be capricious, distracting the driver from what is happening on the highway.

List of the best car seat manufacturers: which brand should be preferred when buying

For the production of important products, you need to have a special license. All goods must pass crash tests and are labeled when it comes to the production of seats by a company with an excellent reputation. If the buyer does not have time to study the features of these products, and the purchase must be made as soon as possible, then it is better to pay attention to the products of those manufacturers who are respected by experts and consumers. We are talking about brands such as BritaxRomer, BabyCare, Cybex.

We analyzed information on the Web from consumers and professionals, studied crash tests and came to the conclusion that these companies can really be trusted.

Varieties of car seats on the market

Let the purpose of the car seats is the same, but they have differences due to the weight, age limits of the transported passenger. If the item is misplaced, it may not only provide a safety benefit, but also put the child at risk when transportation is scheduled.

Please note that it is worth relying on this information when buying so that you do not have to regret your irresponsibility in the future. Child safety comes first!

Car seats 0+

These are carrycots that are small in size. They have a slight bend in the center. They are designed for babies. They can be used from the moment of birth until the baby reaches 13 kg by weight.

The fixation system is represented by 3 points. It has straps as well as a large layer of padded lining. All this protects the baby's delicate skin from damage in those places where it is open. The headrest is great. It covers the back of the head, holding it securely. This is a rather important structural element due to the weak cervical vertebrae in infants. And at this age, the head of children weighs decently.

The design features of this group of chairs are distinguished by the presence of a carrying handle. This is a very convenient solution that makes it possible to get a child out of the car and back without taking him out of the seat.

The base is represented by curved slats, and when placed on the floor, it is possible to swing the child, like in a rocking chair.It can be separately mounted on the chassis so that it can be walked on foot. Often, such models are equipped with a hood, which is also an important plus.

The main advantages

• a light weight;
• complete set with Isofix mount;
• beautiful appearance;
• the ability to swing a child;
• you can walk on wheels;
• the headrest for babies is very tight;
• the inner straps are soft enough.

The main cons

• many covers are made of synthetic materials that irritate the exposed areas of the baby's body.

Car seats 1

This group is designed for children who weigh 9-18 kilograms. This is often 9 months - 4 years. If in the first months of life you can do without the frequent need to travel with your baby in a car, then this option will be a good purchase for long-term use.

Similar models have 5 fixation points for the inner straps. Since the baby at 1 year old begins to be active. He has the ability to get out of the chair altogether. The headrest has a freer shape than in the case of group 0+. At this age, a child should already be able to independently hold his head and watch what is happening around him.

As a supplement, the chairs have seat tilt adjustment. On the way, the child may stay awake or fall asleep. It is very convenient to do this in body positions that can be changed. As the baby grows, the height of the headrest should change over time. For this purpose, manufacturers decided to make this part movable so that it could be lifted as the crumbs grow older.

The main advantages

• duration of use;
• angle adjustment for tilt;
• change in height indicators in the area of ​​the headrest;
• 5-point fixation option;
• the covers are removed;
• construction weighs approx. 6 kg.

The main cons

• not all models are represented by Isofix mount;
• some products received low ratings in crash tests;
• the cost is high.

Car seats 2/3

No less popular car seats that can be used for large children 3 years old and up to 11 years old. These are approximate figures of 15-36 kilograms. The product is individual. It may also happen that you will be using it for more than 7 years. It will depend more on the weight of the child.

In accordance with the forms, these devices are presented in the form of stands that are able to give the correct position to the baby's body, which rests on the standard seat back of the car seat or as a full-fledged product equipped with armrests.

The main advantages

• Isofix mount;
• the ability to adjust the head restraints;
• there are cupholders in some models;
• the presence of comfortable anatomical pillows;
• adjustable width;
• appearance;
• set the correct position for the child's body.

The main cons

• lack of lying position;
• expensive models, if there is a back;
• heavy weight if you need to carry the chair.

Chair selection by group

The age and body characteristics of the baby play a big role when choosing a chair. Ideally, it is better to go with the baby to the store to make a fitting. He should be very comfortable in the chair, and not cramped or short.

It is good if you buy a design with a clear size margin. Otherwise, this will lead to the need to replace the chair with a larger version in the future, which is not far off.

If you purchase a chair through an online store, then you can focus on the classification by groups without trying on. But be careful when it comes to a universal model. These are car seats that have combined intermediate values ​​of 1 and 2, 1.2 and 3. They can be large for one-year-old children. This will eventually lead to the baby hanging out along the way. In another case, lateral protection will press against an older child from 8-10 years old.

The main criteria for the correct installation of the seat in the car

The main task of the restraint is to ensure the safety of the traveler. For these purposes, it is worth having an idea of ​​how to properly install the chair. Below we will consider the main criteria for this process.

So, keep in mind that you do not need to install the seat on a seat that has an airbag. In this case, you need to remove the option, and only then carry out the installation.

It is recommended to fix the chair on the back sofa. This is a safer place than the front. It is important that all instructions from the manufacturer are followed. The installation of the restraint must comply with regulations.

If the child has not reached the age of one year, then it is imperative to move him against the direction of the car. Such features of the anatomy of the baby and this rule should not be neglected.

It is important to install the car seat as tightly as possible. So that the swinging amplitude of the fastened device does not exceed 2 cm. In infant seats, categories 0+ and 0 + 1 +, which are installed so that the child is back of the head forward, the straps should start slightly below the level of the baby's shoulders. In this case, the head should not be lower than the edge of the product.

Considering seats “1” and universal seats, when the child is secured by the chair straps, the inner straps should start above the level of the child's shoulders. On Automotive Items 2 and 3, and Universal Models, the standard car strap must go through the middle of the child's shoulder. It is important that the head restraints are high. The child's head should not be raised above the top edge of the back of the restraint device.

It is important to know and observe all these nuances of chair installation. In this case, you can prevent the child from being injured in an abnormal situation.

Price issue: how much does a child car seat cost?

Prices vary not only by the name of the manufacturer, but this is a really important parameter. Models from firms from Europe that have all modern quality certificates will cost parents a decent amount. These are 6 thousand and 30 thousand rubles. But if your choice fell on Chinese products, then the cost will be 2-5 thousand rubles. The quality will be even lower.

Where to buy a quality car seat

There are really many options. You can visit a well-known supermarket in your city with children's goods. You can get acquainted with the technical properties of the chair, get a complete package of documentation and even touch the product with your own hands. But, as the experience of other parents shows, even in such reputable centers, consultants who know the product do not always work.

You can go to a specialized store. There will be a lot of assortment, and even of high quality, and due to the professionalism of the consultants, you can buy a really good copy. The plus is that it is possible to try on a chair with a child. But keep in mind that the cost in the center is usually overpriced.

Online stores are also allies in this matter. Don't be afraid to shop like this. If the product is not satisfied, then it can be replaced or returned. But keep in mind that the child will not be able to fit in this case. And there is no guarantee that you won't end up on a fake device. And this is not just not a bad purchase, but it can cost the child safety when driving.