Buying a car seat is one of the most important purchases you as a mum will ever make.
It is the one thing that will protect your infant when in a collision that could be fatal, and it is important you don't just pick up the first seat you see in the store.
Before you hand over any money, have a read of the following six points.
1. Safety
Car seats vary depending on price but they should all be exactly the same in terms of safety and protection. All seats must conform to the United Nations standard, ECE Regulation 44.04 (or R 44.03) or to the new i-size regulation, R129 - look for the E mark on all products.
2. The age it goes up to
Do check the age the seat will go up to so you can factor in how long you will have it for. While safety is paramount, no mum wants to have to buy a new seat every year to fit their growing child.
3. Adaptability
Is it easy to transport in and out of the car? Can it be adapted to go from forward-facing to rear-facing? Can you attach it to your buggy or pram? All of these things will make your life a lot easier. For example, the RECARO Zero.1 has a 360° rotating function which allows you to easily change the direction of the seat - it can be turned to face the door when securing or removing the child from the seat.
4. Buy new
New car seats will conform to all safety standards as set and will comply with the law of the land - a reassurance you won’t get with second-hand seats.
5. Comfort
While safety will always be paramount, you should also consider just how comfy the seat will be for your infant, especially if you are going to be travelling a lot. The Zero.1 provides optimum comfort with RECARO ergonomic seating foam, five recline positions and a six position height adjustable headrest.
6. Height- based or weight-based?
There are two types of seats available on the market: based on height and weight. Height ones like RECARO Zero.1 are suitable from birth up to 105cm while the weight based ones are dependent on the weight of the child. Make sure your seat is suitable for your child’s height and weight.
The RECARO Zero.1 will be launched across the UK in August; RRP £399.00.
