Transporting newborns in vehicles requires special attention to safety. One of the main questions parents ask is: from what age can a baby be put in a car seat?
It is recommended to put a baby in a car seat from the very first days of life and to keep using it until the child reaches the age and size at which they can safely use a regular car seat. Many countries have rules requiring a car seat for children under 2 years old or until they reach a certain weight (for example, 9 kg or 13 kg). This is because a car seat provides extra safety for babies and young children during car journeys. The rules depend on each country’s legislation as well as on child safety recommendations.
In general, there are several types of car seats, which differ according to the child’s weight category:
Infant carrier car seat. This type of seat is designed for babies from birth to about 9–12 months or until they reach about 13 kg (depending on the model). It usually has a folding handle for carrying and a special safety harness.
Toddler car seat. This type is used for children from 9–12 months to about 4 years or weighing 9 to 18 kg. It is usually secured with the car’s seat belt or the ISOFIX system.
Booster seat. After the toddler car seat, you can move on to a booster seat. This type is suitable for children aged 4 and over, usually up to 12 years or until they reach the height or weight specified by the manufacturer. A booster raises the child so that the car’s seat belts can be used safely.
Always follow the car seat manufacturer’s instructions and local safety rules, as they may vary depending on the country, legislation and safety recommendations.
The basic safety principles to keep in mind include the following:
Age and size of the child. Use a car seat that matches your child’s age, weight and size. There are different types of car seats designed for different ages and weights. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions to find out which car seat is right for your child.
Correct installation. Install the car seat according to the manufacturer’s instructions and the traffic rules of your country. This may involve using the car’s seat belts or the ISOFIX system to secure the seat properly.
Direction of travel. Follow the recommendations on which way the car seat should face. Some car seats are designed to be used only rear-facing, which is safer for young children. Make sure the car seat is set up in the correct direction according to the manufacturer’s requirements.
Proper harness adjustment. Make sure the car seat harness is properly adjusted to your child’s size and body shape. The straps should pass through the correct attachment points and be tight enough to keep the child safe.
Front seat and airbags. Do not install a car seat on the front seat if the car has airbags that cannot be switched off. Active front airbags can be dangerous for a child if they deploy in an accident or even as a result of improper use.
If your car allows you to switch off the front passenger airbag, you may consider this option, but always check the vehicle and car seat instructions for use in this mode.
The safest place to install a child car seat is usually the back seat. If possible, install the car seat in the back and secure it according to the manufacturer’s instructions and safety rules.