How to choose the most suitable car seat for a newborn
Among the many products for babies, the car seat is a fundamental purchase to remedy as soon as possible. In fact, it is illegal to travel by car without a seat suitable for the weight and age of your child, which can protect him and even save his life in the unfortunate event of a car accident. Even if you don't drive or own a car, you should still consider buying a child seat to make your child travel safely in someone else's car!
First of all it is important to be aware of all the necessary precautions for the safety of children in the car, here are some tips:
How much does a baby car seat cost?
Infant seats cover a wide range of prices. In fact, it is possible to find them for less than 50 euros, although excellent characteristics and above all durability cannot be expected at such a low cost. Most car seats suitable for babies cost between 100 and 200 euros.
ISOFIX infant seats (ie those that clip directly into the car seat without a seat belt) tend to be more expensive than standard ones, but in general the more you spend, the more you are guaranteed a safe seat. Some seats can even cost 500 euros!
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The key features of a baby car seat
All infants up to 15 months of age or 12-15 kg in weight, if it is not possible to deactivate the front seat airbag, must travel in a rear seat in the opposite direction to that of travel. The i-Size legislation provides that car seats are classified by height and encourage the use of Isofix seats. For added safety, make sure your car seat has been tested for side impacts.
Infant car seats belong to the so-called Groups 0 or 0+ and are designed for the first 6 months of the baby's life. These seats usually have an inclined backrest for maximum comfort of the child, however we advise you to opt for a fully reclining seat that allows the infant to lie in a lying position, so as not to stress the still delicate neck and spine and not make difficulty breathing.
Which group of child seats do you need?
Infant seats are sold in "groups" according to the weight of the child. Group 0 car seats (up to 10 kg), Group 0+ (up to 13 kg) or Group 0 + / 1 (up to 18 kg) are suitable for a newborn. Group 0 and 0+ seats are smaller and easier to carry, and are often sold together with the pram or pushchair. Group 0 + / 1 is designed to be used backwards until the child is "1 year old", after which it can be used normally. Car seats in this group last longer, but are not compatible with a travel system.
Group 0 infant car seat
Group 0 car seats are suitable for newborn babies up to 6 months of age or up to 10 kg in weight. They are called "carrycots" and are often used as beds for the first months thanks to their comfort and versatility. They are perfect for making the baby travel in maximum comfort thanks to the lying position and the total protection given by the padding.
Buy it on AmazonGroup 0+ infant car seat
© Amazon.co.uk
The so-called "egg", unlike the carrycot, is suitable for newborns up to 13 kg in weight and can therefore be used for longer. This Group 0+ car seat allows you to cushion shocks without involving your child's head and limbs and can also be adjusted for a sitting or semi-lying position.
Buy it on AmazonGroup 0 + / 1 infant car seat
The Group 0 + / 1 car seat covers the needs of infants up to 18 kg in weight and can be used from birth to approximately 4 years of age. Of course, being so versatile, they are an excellent investment to ensure that your child can travel safely until he goes to kindergarten.
Buy it on AmazonMore features to help you find the perfect seat
Infant car seats come with a "three-point harness, with two straps encircling the child's shoulders and buckle between the legs, or a" five-point harness with additional straps for added safety. We recommend that you opt for a seat with pads on the straps for added comfort. Other features not to be underestimated are the removable and machine washable seat cover, the carrying handle that can be fixed in different positions, the sun visor and the indicators that show if the seat is correctly mounted.
An important factor in determining the choice of the best infant seat is its compatibility with your car. Some child seats are secured to the seat with the safety belt; these tend to be cheaper and are compatible with many cars, but they are often impractical and also do not guarantee maximum safety. Others have a base (often sold separately) that attaches to the seat with the seat belt; the presence of the base makes the assembly of the seat much easier and quicker, as well as ensuring greater safety, but it is not the best of comfort if you have to travel in a car other than yours. In general, ISOFIX car seats are easier to mount and offer greater protection.
Look also on alfemminile:
- Car seats: here are the best on Amazon!
- Guide to buying the best child seat
- Children in the car: transport safely
