Good and affordable child seat: Consumer tips
Many baby car seats have a suitable carrying handle. However, use outside the car is only recommended from the sixth month of life, as before that the baby's spine may be subjected to excessive strain. Size-adjustable baby car seats are advantageous as they can grow with the child for a certain period and thus remain in use for longer.
What different child seat systems are there?
For toddlers and children up to the age of twelve, there are various child seat systems. On the one hand, so-called harness systems are offered, which have their own harness system and often allow for several reclining positions. They are usually secured with a 3-point belt and a lap belt. The advantage of this system is the high comfort, but the seats are quite large. Additionally, operational errors occur quite frequently, and there is a higher risk of neck injuries. Rear-facing reboard systems, on the other hand, offer very good protection for the spine. However, it is often problematic when they are to be installed in small cars. The necessary additional belts also complicate installation. The newer impact body systems are compatible with 3-point and lap belts and provide support for the child via an impact body. The simple installation is a significant advantage, but the lack of shoulder fixation and lower comfort, which does not allow for a sleeping position, are disadvantages. In three-point systems, children are secured on a seat shell with the three-point belt. Often, this system consists of combination seats that are permissible for several weight classes. The universal applicability and the additionally easy installation are the plus of this system. However, it must be said that the seats are rather unsuitable for children weighing less than 15 kilograms. Furthermore, they cannot be used in seats with lap belts and do not offer a sleeping position. So-called booster seats may only be used with 3-point belts. Modern Isofix systems provide very good security in all areas, and incorrect installation is practically excluded. These child seats are very securely connected to the car via a plug connection. They also reduce body strain. However, they are relatively expensive and unfortunately only available for certain vehicle models so far.
What should be considered when buying a baby car seat and a child seat?
First of all, it must be ensured that the child seat or baby car seat is compatible with the car's design and the belt length. Other important criteria are the weight and size of the child. The seats are manufactured based on five weight classes, which indicate which is the right one for the child. Additionally, it is advantageous if the child seat is easy to install. It should be tilt-proof and not be able to slip. High-quality workmanship of the systems is essential, so only child seats that are marked with the current test mark (ECE 44-04) should be purchased. For baby car seats, it is advisable to choose a size-adjustable model, as they will last longer. Child seats should have side protections. It must also be ensured that the head is supported even when sleeping and that the seats are comfortable for the child. For simple booster seats, at least guide horns should be present to ensure correct belt routing. It is also sensible to pay attention to the cover material of the seat. This should be removable and washable, as well as overall easy to care for. It is also important to choose breathable covers to prevent unnecessary sweating. A fitting test before purchasing a child seat system is essential: only in this way can it be checked whether the system really fits the respective car and whether the child sits comfortably, well, and safely in it.
