Best car seat group 1, 2 and 3: This way your child drives safely
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A good car seat is indispensable for every parent, it is not only mandatory but you also want to buy a SAFE one for your child.
Here you can read what to consider when buying a car seat, which car seats are the best and what those groups mean exactly.
In this article we will make sure that you see the forest again between all the car seat trees.
This way you can make the right choice and your child will always be safe in the car.
Which car seats are safe, comfortable and beautiful?
My advice is to buy one that is adjustable and can grow for a long time, and this one by Lionelo Sander is adjustable, goes along in all groups (from group 0 to 3) and can also be placed in a reclining position so that your baby can sleep peacefully from time to time (believe me, REALLY a godsend!).
But everyone has different needs and a different budget, so in this article we will discuss all our favorite car seats.
Here are all the best car seats in an overview. We then go into detail about each car seat in the different categories.
| Car seat models | Images |
| The Best Car seat Isofix group 1: Chicco Oasis 1 Evo |  (view more images) |
| The Best Car seat Isofix groups 2 and 3: Maxi-Cosi RodiFix Air Protect Nomad |  (view more images) |
| The Best Car seat backwards: Maxi Cosi Axiss - Nomad |  (view more images) |
| Best car seat swivel group 0 to 3: Xadventure Quickfix |  (view more images) |
| The Best Car seat with reclining position group 1, 2 and 3: Lionelo Sander Top Tether |  (view more images) |
| The Best Light weight Car seat group 1: Disney LUXURY Cosmo SP Mickey |  (view more images) |
| Best Lightweight Car Seat Group 2 and 3: Safety 1st Child safety seat |  (view more images) |
| Best adjustable car seat: Nania BeLine SP Skyline Black |  (view more images) |
| The Best Car seat for toddlers: Nania Racer |  (view more images) |
| Best side protection group 0 and 1: Nania i-Max |  (view more images) |
| Best i-Size car seat group 2 and 3: Besafe iZi Flex Fix i-Size |  (view more images) |
Because here we will be talking about three different groups of car seats (R44 norm: groups 1, 2 and 3) and also with different characteristics, we have divided the information into various categories such as:
- car seat with Isofix for group 1
- car seat with Isofix for groups 2 and 3
- car seat Maxi Cosi
- car seat backwards group 1, 2 and 3
- and so on
In this video, VeiligheidNL shows you how to find out whether your car is suitable for Isofix and how you can fasten it:
We will explain in detail with each product why we think this is such a good product and what you should take into account when purchasing the right car seat for your child to guarantee 100% safety and comfort.
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Buy at Bol.comWhat we discuss in this comprehensive post:
- 1 Best car seats rated
- 1.1 Best Car seat Isofix group 1: Chicco Oasys 1 Evo
- 1.2 Best Isofix car seat group 2 and 3: Maxi-Cosi RodiFix Air Protect Nomad
- 1.3 Best Reverse Car Seat: Maxi Cosi Axiss - Nomad
- 1.4 Best car seat swivel group 0 to: m 3- Xadventure Quickfix
- 1.5 Best car seat with reclining position group 1, 2 and 3: Lionelo Sander Top Tether
- 1.6 Best Lightweight Car Seat Group 1: Disney LUXE Cosmo SP Mickey
- 1.7 Best Lightweight Car Seat Group 2 and 3: Safety 1st Child Safety Seat
- 1.8 Best Adjustable Car Seat: Nania BeLine SP Skyline Black
- 1.9 Best Car Seat for Toddlers: Nania Racer
- 1.10 Best side protection group 0 and 1: Nania i-Max
- 1.11 Best i-Size car seat group 2 and 3: Besafe iZi Flex Fix i-Size
- 2 Car seat compulsory in Europe
- 3 Maxi-Cosi or car seat?
- 4 What about those groups of car seats?
- 5 Is a car seat allowed in the front of the car?
- 6 What are the requirements for a car seat?
- 7 The best car seat for your child
Best car seats rated
Now let's take a closer look at all the seats:
Best Car seat Isofix group 1: Chicco Oasys 1 Evo
Today many car seats are secured with Isofix as this is the new standard for securing car seats securely.
This car seat is suitable for children from 9 to 18 kg and is mounted with a 5-point belt.
The headrest can be fixed in 6 different positions and the backrest in 5 different positions. Also on the sides of this one Chicco seat provide the seat protection.
You mount the seat with the direction of travel. You can remove the cover from the seat and wash it at 30 ° C.
So this is no longer normal seat belts. You simply have to click the car seat onto the hooks that are located between the backrest and the seat in the back of the car.
Cars sold from November 2014 are required to have ISOFIX. Isofix is usually found in the back seat, and less often in the passenger seat.
The car seat is designed for children from 9 to 18 kg. Both the backrest and the headrest can be adjusted in several positions.
Your child is also well protected on the sides.
You mount the seat forward, so with the direction of travel. You attach the seat with a 5-point belt and you can also wash the cover at 30 ° C.
The seat ensures that your child is always in the correct position, 100% safe and comfortable.
View this group 1 chair here at bol.com
Best Isofix car seat group 2 and 3: Maxi-Cosi RodiFix Air Protect Nomad
Our favorite in the Isofix group 2 and 3 category is the Maxi-Cosi RodiFix Air Protect Car Seat Nomad Sand 2019.
This soft car seat has AirProtect that provides extra protection for the head and neck. You install the seat in the direction of travel, with a 3-point belt.
The chair has a rest position and can be used by children from 4 to 12 years of age.
The AirProtect technology protects your child's head and neck extra well.
AirProtect is a system that softens the force of an eventual impact by means of shock-absorbing foam that is contained in an air cushion with holes.
The seat is fastened by means of the seat belt and Isofix. The seat feels soft and you can mount it forward.
The chair also has a so-called rest position, so that your child can take a nice nap during the car ride.
The chair has a nice price and lasts a long time; it is suitable for children from 4 to 12 years old.
Thanks to the EasyGlide belt hooks you are able to use the 3-point belt correctly, for the utmost safety for your child.
The chair complies with ECE R44 / 04 safety standards.
View this Rodifix here at Babypark
Alternative car seat for Isofix group 1 2 and 3
A cheaper alternative with Isofix for the two car seats just discussed and which is suitable for groups 1 to 3 (9 months to 12 years old) is the Titanium baby car seat Niklas Group 1,2,3 ISOFIX Anthracite.
The car seat is secured with Isofix and also has a 5-point belt for ultimate safety.
If your child still belongs to group 1, then you use the seat with the 5-point belt. In group 2 you can raise the headrest a little and you only use the 3-point belt.
When your child is in group 3 and weighs approximately 22 to 36 kg, remove the backrest so that only the seat that you use with the car's 3-point belt is left.
Best Reverse Car Seat: Maxi Cosi Axiss - Nomad
In the Maxi-Cosi group, the Maxi Cosi Axiss Car Seat - Nomad Blue is our number one.
This comfortable chair is intended for children from 4 months to approximately 4 years old. Comes with adjustable rest positions and can rotate 360 °.
Neck and head are well protected. The harness has 7 positions. Install backwards for up to 2 years, then forward.
Has a 5-point seat belt and is easy to mount with Isofix and Top Tether.
The chair complies with i-Size standards and can be used by children from 4 months (61 cm) to approximately 4 years old.
This Maxi Cosi car seat can rotate 360 °. You attach the seat very easily with Isofix and Top Tether.
During the first two years of your child's life, it is best to mount the car seat backwards (against the direction of travel).
Then you can mount the seat in the direction of travel.
With the various resting positions, your little one always travels comfortably. There is also guaranteed protection for the neck and head.
The harness has 7 positions and the headrest is also adjustable. The seat also has a 5-point safety belt.
The only downside is that this car seat may be difficult to move to another vehicle. The seat complies with the ECE R44 / 04 and i-Size safety regulations.
Best car seat swivel group 0 to: m 3- Xadventure Quickfix
We think the Blij'r Daan - Children's car seat - 360 degrees rotatable is the best in the swivel car seat category.
This Blij'r Daan car seat can be rotated 360 °, is suitable for all groups (0-36 kg) and is mounted with Isofix. Can be mounted both forwards and backwards.
Offers protection on the sides and works with a 5-point harness. The ImpactBlock offers extra protection for the head on the side.
The backrest can be adjusted in 3 positions, the headrest in 7 positions.
The chair is suitable for groups 1, 2 and 3 (0-36 kg) and can be rotated 360 ° (without detaching it).
Especially for small babies, it is an advantage that this chair can rotate on its axis, you can easily lift your little one in and out of the seat.
The seat is mounted by means of the safe Isofix system.
The material of the seat ensures good air circulation, so your child will not sweat quickly.
Extra safety is added thanks to the 5-point belts and by means of a lap belt.
The ImpactBlock technology protects your child's head in the event of a side impact.
The backrest can be adjusted in 3 different positions and the headrest has 7 different levels.
This way you can let your baby or child sit upright or in a comfortable lying position.
You can mount the seat forwards but also backwards. The soft pads protect the delicate children's skin.
The car seat complies with the ECE R44 / 04 and i-Size standards.
View this car seat here at bol.com
Another swivel car seat
An alternative to the above car seat, unfortunately a bit more expensive, is the P'tit Chou Turner Car Seat 360 ° rotatable - Fabric.
If your budget is a bit lower, you can also buy a rotating car seat for the groups separately.
On the other hand, it is useful if you have one that grows with your child until the seat is no longer needed.
This car seat complies with ECE regulation 44/04. For group 0 you mount the seat against the direction of travel, and for groups 1-3 forwards.
The seat has Side Impact Protection for lateral protection. It also comes with Isofix mounting.
You can adjust the headrest and backrest in different positions, and the chair comes with a reduction cushion for the little ones.
The seat also has a 5-point belt.
Best car seat with reclining position group 1, 2 and 3: Lionelo Sander Top Tether
The Lionelo Sander Car Seat 0-36kg Isofix is our number one in the rear car seat category.
Car seat including reducer and other accessories. Suitable for children from 0 to 36 kg, is secured with isofix and can be rotated 180 °.
So it can be mounted both forwards and backwards. With Top Tether strap that provides extra safety during sudden braking.
With cushions on the sides and three sitting / lying positions. Cover washable at 30 ° C.
This car seat is also suitable for groups 1 to 3, and therefore children with a weight between 0 and 36 kg, and with an age up to 12 years.
It is a very versatile car seat with many great features.
There are a lot of good choices to be found, but slightly less variants with reclining position and we have looked at many customer reviews. There are a number of them on bol.com, but Lionelo, originally from Poland, is not yet well known in the Netherlands.
In the abroad there are also, just like on bol, a lot of positive reviews that mainly speak about the lying position.
Nice color and car accessories
The seat is secured with Isofix and can rotate 180 °. The car seat has a cheerful turquoise color and can also be purchased in other colors.
The nice thing about this car seat is that you get various accessories such as a reducer, a car storage folder and sun blinds.
The seat can be mounted forwards and backwards and has an additional Top Tether strap that provides more safety in the event of a collision or hard braking.
Comfortable for your child
A comfortable cushion is fitted to protect the baby's or child's head in the event of a side impact (ImpactBlock).
The seat also has three sitting or lying positions.
This seat, in combination with the sun blinds, ensures a wonderful, carefree car ride.
The seat is secured with a 3-point safety belt.
Also important: it is a product that has been approved by the best research institutions in Europe, namely the TUV.
The chair has passed various safety and quality tests. The cover is also washable at 30 °.
The seat has been approved by the TUV and meets the ECE R44 / 04 standard.
Check the most current prices and availability here
Another car seat that you can place backwards
An alternative to this car seat that can also be placed backwards is the Safety 1st Car seat 2-in-1 Sweet Safe.
This is suitable for groups 0 and 1. As discussed earlier, for the best safety you can purchase a rearward car seat for a child up to 2 years old.
After that, it is safe to mount the seat forwards.
This Safety 1st car seat can be mounted forward (for group 0) and rearward (for group 1).
You can place the seat in various comfortable reclining positions, both forwards and backwards. The seat also includes a reducer for babies and toddlers.
Car seat with reclining position group 1, 2 and 3
Is this not quite what you are looking for?
Then maybe the X-Adventure Car seat Born Lucky Kidz 123 Brown / Gray a better choice for you, which is about the same price as the Lionelo Sander car seat and also suitable for groups 1, 2 and 3.
This seat has a cover of artificial leather and feels soft. This cover is useful because you can easily clean it.
You can put the seat in different sitting and reclining positions and the headrest is also adjustable.
You mount the seat in the direction of travel.
The seat comes with a seat reducer, is attached with a 3-point belt and is also equipped with a 5-point belt.
The backrest is breathable. The seat is approved according to European standards.
Best Lightweight Car Seat Group 1: Disney LUXE Cosmo SP Mickey
It is useful to have a car seat that is lightweight so that you can easily pick it up and move it.
We think the Disney Car Seat LUXE Cosmo SP Mickey 0 + 1 red and black is a good option if you are looking for a light car seat.
This chair can be mounted both forward (9 to 18 kg) and rearward (up to 13 kg) and is considerably lightweight.
Can be used for children from birth to approximately 4 years.
The seat has 3 adjustable positions, a 5-point harness and a 3-point harness system.
This is another car seat that can be mounted both forward (9 to 18 kg) and rearward (up to 13 kg).
With the help of the 3-point belt, you can easily place the seat in the car.
The seat also has various positions, including a nice sleeping position.
The chair is designed for babies from birth to toddlers up to 4 years of age.
Finally, the seat has a 5-point harness and you can adjust it to 3 heights.
View this Disney car seat here at bol.com
Another nice lightweight car seat
There is another alternative in this category that is a bit more expensive, but for all the right reasons. We are talking about the Cybex Juno 2-Fix Rumba Red.
This car seat has a number of special conditions, including the LSP System Plus system which provides linear protection on the sides for the head and shoulders.
The seat is attached with Isofix and the headrest can be placed in 8 different positions. The seat is lightweight and contains a light circulation system.
The cover is made of breathable fabric and can be washed at 30 degrees.
The chair is the Stiftung Warentest test winner of 11/2013 and ADAC (the largest automotive club in Europe) has awarded this chair twice with the highest rating in all test categories!
The seat comes with a safety cushion that provides the right protection for the neck.
The system works much like an airbag, reducing the shock of a collision.
The cushion conforms to the child's body and meets ECE R44 / 04 standards.
Best Lightweight Car Seat Group 2 and 3: Safety 1st Child Safety Seat
Lightweight car seat designed for children aged 3 to 10-12 (or weighing between 15 and 36 kg).
Headrest (6 positions) and backrest (2 positions) can be adjusted.
Installed with 3-point belt and fits all types of cars. The seat also has belt guides and the cover can be washed at 30 ° C.
For groups 2 and 3, the Safety 1st Child Safety Seat Road Safe is one of the best car seats that is lightweight.
The fold-out car seat has an adjustable headrest (6 positions) and backrest (2 different positions).
Designed for children between the ages of 3 and 10/12 (or weighing between 15 and 36 kg).
You can easily install the seat by means of a 3-point belt. The seat fits all types of cars.
The seat also has belt guides and the cover can be washed at 30 ° C. We also really like the color.
The ideal car seat when the budget is not that high but you still want to go for a safe option.
Another lightweight car seat option
A more expensive alternative to the lightweight car seat category is the Maxi Cosi Rodi XP2 Car Seat.
The backrest and headrest of this seat are adjustable in length and width. You mount the car seat with a 3-point belt.
Thanks to the SPS (Side Protection System) your child is extra well protected against collisions from the side.
The forward-mounted seat has been developed for children between 3.5 and 12 years old (15-36 kg).
The car seat is lightweight and the cover is washable.
In addition, the seat meets the ECE R44 / 04 safety standards.
The chair received the score 'Good' on the ANWB test and was awarded the 'Best buy' label by the Consumers' Association test.
Best Adjustable Car Seat: Nania BeLine SP Skyline Black
We have also selected our favorite from the Nania brand, namely the Nania car seat BeLine SP Skyline Black.
Car seat from Nania with adjustable headrest, 5-point harness, 3-point belt and with shoulder belt guide.
The car seat also offers protection on the sides. Intended for children weighing from 9 to 36 kg (and aged between 1 and 12 years).
This car seat has been developed for groups 1, 2 and 3. The manufacturers indicate that the seat is suitable for children from 1 to 12 years old with a weight of 9 to 35 kg.
The car seat comes with a safe 5-point harness and you mount the seat in the direction of travel.
The backrest can be removed from the car seat, so that you can also use the booster seat alone (recommended from 22 kg or more).
The headrest with belt guide is adjustable in various positions.
The wide armrests provide extra comfort. You can remove the cover from the seat and then wash it by hand.
The seat is installed with a 3-point belt and is approved according to the ECE R44 / 04 standard. The car seat also offers protection on the sides (Side Protection).
From the age of about 3 years, the 5-point harness is no longer necessary, and you only have to use the 3-point harness of the car.
The seat comes with an inlay cushion for the little ones.
The extra cushions to protect the delicate baby skin make this chair even more comfortable.
Furthermore, the chair meets the ECE R44 / 04 approval and has also passed the ADAC test, which has much higher requirements. All this at a very low price.
Check prices and availability here
Another Nania car seat
For a Nania car seat of approximately the same price you can also opt for the Nania car seat BeLine SP ZigZag Light Gray.
This car seat is also suitable for groups 1 to 3, has a 5-point harness and a removable backrest for when the child grows up. You mount the seat forward.
The armrests provide extra comfort and you can also adjust the headrest. The seat offers optimal protection on the sides.
You install the seat with a 3-point belt (from the age of 3 you can remove the 5-point belt).
The chair has a beautiful design and we can call it a luxury chair. The colors are neutral and thus suits every car.
The chair comes with a baby cushion. The car seat is also universal and fits in all cars with a 3-point seat belt.
This seat offers more safety by means of the belt tensioners.
The seat meets the ECE-R44 / 04 standard and has passed the demanding ADAC test. It is recommended to wash the cover by hand.
Best Car Seat for Toddlers: Nania Racer
In the category 'car seat for toddler' we have chosen the Nania Car seat Myla SP as our favorite.
This car seat is suitable for children from 1 to about 12 years old, for groups 1,2 and 3 (weight 9 to 36 kg).
With a 5-point belt, it also offers side protection and even a tilt position. Installation in car with 3-point seat belt.
Cover can be washed at 30 ° C degrees, but it is recommended to clean it with a cloth instead of in the washing machine.
The chair is suitable for groups 1, 2 and 3, so that your toddler can use the seat until an older age.
The seat has been developed for children weighing from 9 kg to 36 kg and an age of approximately 1 to 12 years old.
The car seat comes with a 5-point harness that can be adjusted in height.
The seat offers protection on the sides, and has a comfortable headrest and backrest.
The headrest can be adjusted in various positions for extreme comfort.
Is your baby tired? Then you can put the seat in the reclining position. You attach the car seat using the 3-point belt that is in the car.
You should install the seat forwards.
When your child has reached a weight of approximately 15 kg, the 5-point harness is no longer necessary and in such a case you only use the 3-point harness.
You can then remove the harness from the seat.
It is useful to always read the manual carefully to understand exactly how to install the chair.
The cover can be washed at 30 ° C, but it is recommended to clean it with a cloth. The fabric can feel hard because of a washing machine.
The chair meets the ECE R44 / 04 standards. The chair also has fine (folding) armrests and the chair is available in different colors.
A budget option for a toddler car seat
A cheaper alternative in the toddler car seat category is the Titanium Baby Car Seat.
The car seat is suitable for groups 1, 2 and 3 and the seat can be mounted in the front or rear. You can remove the backrest from the seat.
You use the seat with a 3-point belt and the headrest is adjustable.
The cover of the chair is removable and can be washed at 30 ° C.
You use the 5-point harness for children in the first group class (group 1), and the 3-point harness for groups 2 and 3.
In addition, the seat has belt guides. It's a nice budget-friendly option that still looks very chic.
Best side protection group 0 and 1: Nania i-Max
Our number one i-Size car seat for smaller children (groups 0 and 1) is the Nania i-Size car seat Primo Carbonne.
This i-Size car seat is suitable for children with a height between 76 and 105 cm. With side protection and installation by means of Isofix.
Mounted in the direction of travel. With 5-point internal belt, seat can be in various positions. Comes with a soft pillow for a newborn.
Cover washable at 30 ° C.
What makes this one our favorite now?
The chair has been developed especially for children with a length of 76 cm to 105 cm, which corresponds to an age of about 1 to 4 years.
You install the seat with Isofix and always in the direction of travel (forward). The chair has a Top Tether system and the chair is equipped with Isofix connections.
The seat does not have an extra leg at the front (for space saving) and an extra belt that prevents the seat from tilting forward in the event of a collision.
The chair also offers very good lateral protection. You secure your baby or child with the 5-point harness (adjustable in height).
The headrest is also adjustable and the seat offers extra pads for babies.
The seat complies with UN R129 regulations. You can put the chair in various positions and the cover can be washed at 30 ° C.
Pay attention! This car seat is only suitable for cars with Isofix hooks and Top Tether connections.
Best i-Size car seat group 2 and 3: Besafe iZi Flex Fix i-Size
In our last category i-Size car seat, we find the Besafe iZi Flex Fix i-Size Burgundy Mélange the most interesting and beautiful.
Car seat designed for children from 100 to 150 cm tall (corresponds to ages 4 to 12 years).
Mount with Isofix. Comfortable headrest that is adjustable in height. With this car seat, 3 seats fit next to each other in the car.
SIP (Side Impact Protection) for extra protection on the side.
And what an expensive car seat we realize, but for a number of good reasons.
The chair is made for children with a height of 100 to 150 cm, or between the ages of 4 and 12 years old.
This car seat is therefore suitable for groups 2 and 3.
You fix the chair with Isofix. What makes this chair unique is that it makes it possible to place up to 3 car seats next to each other on the back seat.
This is due to the detachable sides.
This way you always transport your child safely with two friends!
This car seat also has an extra safety system thanks to the belt guide that ensures that your child's hips and shoulders are always firmly secured and will not move even in the event of a collision.
In addition, the seat contains SIP (Side Impact Protection) for protection on the sides. The headrest is adjustable in height.
The chair is UN R129 certified and meets the i-Size standard.
Check the most current prices and availability here
Car seat compulsory in Europe
In most European countries, including the Netherlands, children up to 1.35 meters are required to ride in an approved seat in the car.
There are other countries where children up to 1.50 meters must be transported in a car seat, including Austria, Germany and Switzerland.
Always a car seat for up to three years
However, there are a number of exceptions to the rule: children from the age of three (not under that age!) May possibly sit in the back seat if the car has no belts on the back seat.
When an adult with three children is going on a car ride and there is room for only two car seats, the third child can ride with a belt, as long as it is older than three years.
Car seats go by weight
In general, car seats for groups 2 and 3 are tested with a maximum weight of 36 kg.
However, this does not take into account children who are overweight.
Even children who are not too heavy for their age can weigh more than 36 kg at any given time.
In case you have a child transport with a weight over 36 kg, it is advised to check whether the belt runs over the shoulder.
If this is not the case, it is more sensible to put a child on a booster seat or booster.
Maxi-Cosi or car seat?
When your child is born, you should immediately purchase a car seat.
Safety comes first, but user-friendliness and comfort are of course also important.
Can your child in a Maxi-Cosi?
How do you know whether your child can enter the car with a Maxi-Cosi or better 'loose' in a car seat?
The height of your child is decisive. If the head protrudes above the edge of the Maxi-Cosi, it can be dangerous in the event of a collision.
In such a case, it is better to transport a child in a car seat, and not in a Maxi-Cosi. The legs are allowed to dangle outside the Maxi-Cosi.
Be well prepared to look for a car seat
As a parent it is important to follow the rules of, for example, the Consumers' Association and not to get too much advice in baby shops.
Baby shops, of course, want to sell and parents are sometimes too soon inclined to transport children in a car seat instead of the Maxi-Cosi.
Children, if transported too early in a car seat, can be seriously injured by sudden braking.
What about those groups of car seats?
Car seats are divided into groups 44, 1 and 2 according to the R3 standard according to age.
However, the R44 standard is now gradually being replaced by the i-Size standard.
What ages are in group 1?
Group 1 means: a toddler from about 9 months old to 4 years and weighing from 9 to 18 kg.
The seats can be mounted forwards from this group, using Isofix.
However, it is recommended to let children ride backwards for as long as possible.
Often a group 1 seat is put forward in the car and fastened with the seat belt or Isofix.
The seat itself has a belt with which you can securely fasten your child.
For the little ones
If you purchase a car seat for the group 0+ (newborns), it is advised to also purchase a seat reducer.
Then you can be sure that your child rides 100% safely and is firmly secured in the seat.
When your child is no longer completely comfortable in the seat, you can remove the seat reducer. As a parent you have to be able to determine that a bit yourself.
Also read: educational toys for babies
What about groups 2 and 3?
Group 2 car seats are for children weighing up to 25 kilos and that generally corresponds to children up to 5 years.
In addition to car seats, booster seats also belong to group 2.
It is time for a group 3 car seat when your child weighs over 18 kg and when the head is above the edge of the seat.
Difference between groups 2 and 3
The only difference between groups 2 and 3 is that the group 3 seats are intended for children up to 36 kilos.
Groups 2 and 3 are often combined and are between the ages of 3,5 and 12, weighing between 15 and 36 kg.
With these seats, the child is fastened with the normal seat belt.
Ride without a car seat
When a child is sitting with the buttocks against the backrest and the knees fall over the edge of the seat, it is allowed to ride without a car seat.
In general, these are kids who are taller than 1.35 m.
Is a car seat allowed in the front of the car?
Children can be transported in the front and back, as long as it is done correctly.
As mentioned above, children under 1.35 meters must travel in a car seat and that is allowed in both the front and the back of the car.
Age also does not play a role in transporting children in the front or back, it is always allowed in principle.
As we mentioned before, the rules in other countries can be different. So always be well informed, especially when you travel.
Forward or backward
In the case of a baby or toddler in the front of the car, always place the seat backwards. This rule applies to children up to 15 months and is mandatory.
Forward is dangerous; small children are more likely to be injured in an accident because they have little control over their neck and head.
Car seat against the direction of travel?
It is recommended to let your child travel against the direction of travel, and preferably for as long as possible.
When a sudden stop or in an accident you can prevent or minimize damage to the head and neck.
PAY ATTENTION! If you want to transport your child in the front of the car, you have to take the airbag into account.
When an airbag is activated, it is forbidden to transport your child in a seat facing the direction of travel.
In addition, it is recommended that children under the age of 12 also do not travel in a seat with an active airbag.
What are the requirements for a car seat?
The rules associated with car seats are strict and for the year 2019 they are as follows:
- The standard is now Isofix for attaching the car seat, and no longer ordinary seat belts.
- There are two European quality marks that apply, namely the ECE-R44 standard (which was previously used) and the new i-Size approval (ECE-R129). The R44 standard, which you have already seen above, divided car seats into groups 1, 2 and 3. Car seats with i-Size are classified according to the height of children. In addition, these types of seats have been tested for collisions that come in from the side. Up to 15 months it is mandatory to transport children backwards with i-Size. In addition, i-Size car seats are clicked with Isofix.
R44 (old) vs i-Size (new)
The categorization of groups 1, 2 and 3 (ECE-R44 standard) is different for the i-Size.
Group 0+ is for the smallest with a weight up to 13 kg or a length of 75 cm.
Most of these seats need to be mounted backwards to provide extra support for the baby's neck and head.
The i-Size for children up to 83 cm (with an age of at least one year and 3 months) is comparable to group 0+ (0-13 kg) of the R44 legislation.
The i-Size (forward) for children between 60 and 105 cm (aged over 15 months) is comparable to R44 group 1 (9-18 kg).
The i-Size (forward) for children between 105 and 135 cm is comparable to groups 2 and 3 (15-36 kg) of the R44 standard.
An i-Size car seat has a recognizable orange label with information about which group the car seat is intended for.
The seat label also provides information about the car seat manufacturer. This is displayed in the form of an approval number.
The new i-Size standard
The R44 car seats can still be used as usual. However, R2019 car seats are no longer produced since 44.
In the Netherlands, the majority of manufacturers only sell i-Size car seats.
This can still be different abroad, so if you go on holiday with your little one outside the Netherlands, it is always important to carefully check the rules regarding car seats.
The best car seat for your child
Sometimes it seems very difficult to make a good choice between all car seat options.
Hopefully, we have clarified a few things for you here in this article and provided good options in each of the categories.
The most important things to consider when choosing a car seat for your little one are:
- The age and weight of the child (ie in which group it falls)
- The connection in the car (ISOFIX or seat belts)
- The safety features of the car seat
- Practical matters such as washability of the protective cover, rotatability and weight of the seat
- The budget you have to spend
- And ultimately whether your child feels comfortable in the chair
It is very important to choose the right seat for the weight, age and height of your child so that safety during a car journey is 100% guaranteed.
Also read: fun games to keep them busy in the car
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Joost Nusselder, the founder of Speelkeuze.nl is a content marketer, father and loves trying out new toys. As a child he came into contact with everything related to games when his mother started the Tinnen Soldaat in Ede. Now he and his team create helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with fun play ideas.
