Gregory Robinson
Choosing the correct car seat for your child can be quite daunting, but it's extremely important in the event of a crash.
Car seats are compulsory for all children until they are 12 years old or 4ft 5in (135cm) tall.
The experts at Which? have compiled a list of tips for those who may be struggling to choose the correct car seat.
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Car seats made to meet the R129 i-Size regulations means the seat categories are based on different height measurements.
The categories are not set height groups and you will have to check the measurements of each seat to decide which car seat to buy and to estimate the duration of time your child can use it.
According to Which?, most i-Size baby seats will last from birth length to around 15 months, this equates mostly to 40cm to 85cm.
To measure your baby’s length, lie them down and keep their legs as straight as possible. You should take the measurement from the crown of their head all the way down to their toes.
Once your baby reaches the upper height limit of their seat, it’s time to buy a new one to ensure there are protected in a car accident.
The research by Which? suggests an i-Size baby and toddler seat should be suitable for a newborn until they reach 105cm, which is roughly up to four years of age.
The i-Size toddler and child category is adequate for kids between 61cm to 105cm, or 15 months to four years of age.
The i-Size child seat measurements are 100cm to 135cm, or four years old to 12 years old.
Another fantastic tip all parents and carers should know is a very clear visual cue that could tell you when it’s almost time to change a car seat.
If your child has outgrown their seat, the top of their head will be higher than the top of their car seat.
The head should be completely protected and if their head is partially uncovered, they may not be protected in a crash.