Expecting a baby is exciting and slightly daunting too as you are bombarded with information on everything from sleeping, feeding, stimulating, and keeping your baby safe. It can be overwhelming and stressful trying to choose the best car seat for your baby, especially with so many options available on the market.

The infant car seat you will buy will need to keep your baby safe in the car from the day you leave the hospital until around 12-18 months of age. It is also in this period that your baby is the most vulnerable to injury if you were to be in an accident. Therefore, the infant seat you buy needs to be comfortable, supportive, and most importantly, SAFE.

In this article, we will give you all the facts so that you can make an informed decision to ensure that you get the safest infant seat that will work the best with your budget, lifestyle, and vehicle. We have also written individual, more comprehensive reviews on all our infant car seats, which are linked in this article. 

WHAT ARE THE SAFEST CAR SEATS FOR infants ?

The typical response in answering this question is “the safest car seat is whichever car seat fits your car and your baby the best”. While this is definitely true, there is much more to consider when deciding which car seat is best for your new baby. These are the factors to consider:  

1. YOUR BUDGET: HOW MUCH ARE YOU ABLE TO SPEND?

Unfortunately the safest seats are usually expensive, although expensive does not always mean safest! Before you start looking for a car seat, decide what is a realistic budget that your family can afford. 

You also need to consider whether you want a travel system; where the infant seat comes with a pram and can be clicked on and off of that pram. At Precious Cargo, we offer travel system packages that often work out a bit cheaper than buying the infant seat, pram, isofix base, and bassinet separately. 

 We do offer credit options via Payflex and Mobicred

2. YOUR CAR: DOES IT INSTALL SECURELY?

You’ll need to check which installation options your car has; isofix and/or full 3-point seatbelts. You’ll also need to check if your car has underfloor storage compartments, as this can be problematic for car seats with support legs. Once you have narrowed your options down, you will need to check if your car is on the car seat’s approved fit list to determine if it is compatible. 

Most infant seats can be installed with a seatbelt OR with an isofix base. This makes them quite universal in terms of which cars they will fit into safely.

Please note that not all cars available in SA are listed in the European fit lists, so please contact us if you have any queries.

3. YOUR NEWBORN BABY: WILL YOUR BABY BE PREMATURE OR SMALLER THAN AVERAGE?

All infant seats have a minimum height requirement. Some infant seats can be used from 40cm and some can be used from 45cm. 

If you suspect that your baby may be smaller than average or premature, or if you are having multiples (twins, triplets, etc.) then an infant seat that can be used from 40cm will be the best option.

4. WHAT ABOUT A MULTISTAGE CAR SEAT (FROM BIRTH TO 12 YEARS)?

Although multistage car seats seem like a great long term solution for your baby and they are advertised as being suitable from birth; they are often not suitable or safest for newborn babies. 

Multistage seats often do not give newborn babies sufficient postural support and head support, nor do they recline enough for newborns. All of this can lead to your baby's head falling forward which can lead to positional asphyxiation (blocking off the airway). 

Another issue with newborns in multistage seats is that you cannot get a safe and secure harness fit on them. The harness is often too high and the harness pads too big. If the harness cannot be sufficiently tightened, it can lead to increased risk of injury or ejection in a crash. 

Additionally, the majority of multistage seats that have been independently crash tested have not scored well for safety.

There are only three convertible car seats, that are approved from birth to 4-7 years depending on the model, that we recommend as they have appropriate support for newborns and they have been independently crash tested by ADAC and/or they have been Swedish Plus tested. These seats are the BeSafe iZi Twist/Turn B, BeSafe Stretch B and The Maxi Cosi Mica Pro Eco.

5. THE SAFETY RATINGS

Car seats that are sold on the South African market are imported from Europe and Asia. The seats that are sold legally, will have an orange sticker on the seat to show its ECE number to prove that it has passed the mandatory European ECE R44/04 or R129 crash testing. These results are not published, and the public are not able to find out how the seats performed in the crash tests.

In order to obtain an ECE certificate, a car seat must pass a frontal collision test at a speed of 50km/h for ECE R44/04 testing or 55km/hour for R129 testing, and pass a rear impact collision test at 30km/hr. R129 testing also includes a 25km/hour side impact test.

In reality, we travel much faster speeds on our roads, with the speed limit in most urban areas being 60km or more. 

Some European car seats are selected for additional, independent crash testing that is done at higher speeds and the test criteria are more stringent. Unfortunately, rebranded seats that are not sold in Europe will not undergo additional testing:

a) ADAC

One of the most well-known independent crash-testing is done by the ADAC (Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club). ADAC is an automobile club in Germany that selects car seats for independent crash testing. Car seat manufacturers do not pay for the testing nor do they volunteer for the testing. 

These test results are then bought by other consumer companies and re-published to the public depending on what country you are in. For example in the UK, ‘WHICH?’ consumer magazine publishes these tests, in Norway, ‘Forbrukerrådet’ publish the results etc. 

ADAC scores rated on a scale of between 1 to 5. A lower score indicates a better rating.

ADAC ASSESSES CAR SEAT ON 5 POINTS:

1. SAFETY -  Frontal impacts at 64km/h and side impacts at 50km/h are performed with a four-door vehicle body shell mounted to a test sledge. Impact loads are measured on differently sized child dummies. Belt routing, size adjustment, seat stability and head support are assessed subjectively.
2. SERVICE/USABILITY -  A child seat is installed in a car for test purposes with the aim of identifying the misuse potential. Testing includes ease of buckling up and unstrapping the child/dummy, installation, removal and adaptation of the seat and a check of the instruction manual.
3. POLLUTANTS - They test the seat for harmful chemicals and/or pollutants
4. COMFORT - During the test installation of the seat, ADAC assesses the leg support, upholstery or uncovered parts and the child’s field of vision.
5. PROCESSING/USE - Several testers check seat cleaning and assess workmanship.

b) SWEDISH PLUS TEST

The Swedish Plus Test is conducted at the Road Safety Institute in Linköping University, Sweden, by VTI. Car seat manufacturers volunteer to have their car seats undergo the stringent testing conducted by Swedish Plus Test.

It involves a frontal crash test conducted at 56.km/hour. The head-on crash test has a very short and hard braking distance, which makes the impact much more severe than in other crash test scenarios. It is the only test in the world that measures the force load upon the child’s neck in a frontal collision. This is why forward facing car seats have, to date, never passed the Swedish Plus Test. The crash forces to the neck are too high when forward facing and can cause severe or even fatal injuries to a child in real life accidents.

Sweden prides itself for having the lowest child mortality rate in the world. This is not surprising as they keep their children rear facing for approximately 5-7 years.

It is important to note that the majority of infant seats have not been Swedish Plus Tested as they focus mainly on toddler rear facing seats. However, the Besafe iZi Turn B (when used rear facing) , and the BeSafe Stretch B mentioned above have been Swedish Plus Tested. 

All the car seats below have been independently crash tested and get the highest safety ratings. Read our blog explaining the mandatory vs independent crash testing.

REVIEWING THE HIGHEST SAFETY RATED INFANT CAR SEATS:

We have compiled a list of our best infant car seats available in South Africa, reviewing each seat and why it has made our list of the best seats. The list below is in alphabetical order, and not in order of safety ratings. The car seats that pass the Swedish Plus Test are considered to be some of the safest car seats in the world. 

1) BESAFE GO BEYOND

OUR OPINION OF THE BESAFE GO BEYOND

Besafe Go Beyond is very expensive, but its safety and comfort features and longevity make it worth the price. It is lightweight, easy to use, has smart and unique features for your convenience and your baby's comfort. The 180 degree rotation feature, reclining feature and one hand retraction of the carry handle are lovely features that make it easy to use. 

The main reasons to get this seat is:

 a) if your baby is likely to be bigger than average or 

b) if you have limited legroom in the back. 

The Go Beyond is part of the Beyond modular system; you can use the same Beyond isosifx base with the Go Beyond as well the the Beyond 360 toddler car seat. The Beyond 360 toddler car seat lasts much longer than the majority of other toddler car seats on the market. They all have maximum harness limits of 105cm/18kg, whereas the Beyond 360 has maximum limits of 125cm/22kg. This means that the Beyond 360 toddler car seat lasts significantly longer than all other toddler car seats. The Beyond isofix base results in both the infant and toddler seats installing very compactly, so it saves cabin space and your legroom up front. The base does have the option to extend the legroom for a toddler, so if your car has the space, you can give your toddler more legroom.

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF BESAFE GO BEYOND

The Besafe Go Beyond is approved from 40cm to 87cm or 13kg. This is approximately 18 months for average sized babies. 

HOW BESAFE GO BEYOND IS INSTALLED

The Beyond Go is lightweight and simple to install. Besafe Go Beyond can be installed with seatbelt OR with the Beyond isofix base. Beyond isofix boase has Universal Level Technology™ to correct any sloped or bucket seats in order to achieve the best seating angle in any car.

The Beyond is THE only modular system that has an isofix base that can be used with a toddler car seat that lasts to 125cm. As mentioned, all other modular systems only last to 105cm with their toddler car seat. 

SAFETY FEATURES OF BESAFE GO BEYOND

Go Beyond was tested by ADAC and scored very well for safety with and without the ISOFIX base. 

COMFORT FEATURES OF BESAFE GO BEYOND

The BeSafe Go Beyond has clever Active Lay Flat™ which gives newborns a naturally reclined position to prevent their head flopping forwards, which can result in dangerous restriction of the airway. Unlike other infant seats that can be reclined, the Beyond Go does not take up more cabin space when you recline it. 

Plush newborn inserts create a snug, supportive fit from birth. There is also an optional premie inlay available, to give tiny babies a safe and more secure fit. 

The easy-adjust headrest adjusts the 5-point harness with one hand. It has soft, breathable fabric set keeps temperatures more even, and is also available in mesh, lighter colours for even better breathability. For babies undergoing hip dysplasia treatment, it may provide sufficient space for freer leg and hip movement due to the spacious interior.  

Beyond Go carry handle can be adjusted with one hand, which is a very underrated feature! The seat can rotate 180 degrees when placed on the ISOfix base. This feature provides easy access from the car door when placing your baby in the seat, protecting your back and making it comfortable for the little one to get buckled up. Additionally, the harness pads have magnets in them that keeps the harness out of the way when putting your baby into the seat.

CAN THE BESAFE GO BEYOND BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM?

Yes, Go Beyond is compatible with several prams from our range; Stokke, Babyzen and Thule. 

2) BESAFE IZI GO MODULAR X2

OUR OPINION ON THE BESAFE IZI GO MODULAR X2

Besafe iZi Go Modular X2 is still one of the highest safety rated infant car seat available in South Africa! It is easy to install on the Modular base or with seatbelt. The Modular base is also compatible with Besafe iZi Modular X1 toddler car seat. iZI Go Modular X2 has good postural support for newborns, but can be too upright in some cars if the back seat is sloped. For the price, there are now newer infant car seats on the market that offer better comfort features like reclining backrests and 180 degree rotation when used with their bases. 

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE BESAFE IZI GO MODULAR X2

The BeSafe iZi Go Modular X2 is approved from 40cm to 75cm/13kg. This is from birth until approximately 12 months old for the average sized baby. 

HOW THE BESAFE IZI GO MODULAR X2 INSTALLED?

The iZi Go Modular X2 can be installed with the vehicles 3-point seatbelt or with the BeSafe iZi Modular Isofix base. The isofix base can only be used in cars with isofix points. 

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE BESAFE IZI GO MODULAR X2

The iZi Go Modular X2 has been built with Dynamic Force Absorption in the upper shell of the seat for ultimate head protection.

iZi Go Modular X2 has a 5-point harness which distributes crash forces more evenly across the baby's body as well as adds stability in the case of a side collision.

In addition, it has side impact protection ( SIP+) offering the highest possible protection in the event of a side impact collision. This additional SIP+  reduces load on the child by up to 20%. 

In crash testing, the seat displayed a very low risk of injury in a frontal collision and a side impact collision with and without the isofix base.

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE BESAFE IZI GO MODULAR X2

The BeSafe iZi Go Modular X2 is well padded and comes with a Soft Newborn Hugger™ with a cleverly placed wedge for stability, support and an optimized recline angle for newborns. 

The headrest and harness can be adjusted simultaneously by raising the lever on the back of the seat. 

Additionally, the harness pads have magnets in them that keeps the harness out of the way when putting your child into the seat. 

CAN THE IZI GO MODULAR X2 BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM?

Yes, The iZi Go Modular X2 are compatible with Stokke, Babyzen and Thule strollers. You will need the appropriate adapters to click the seat onto the pram. 

3) BESAFE IZI TURN B

OUR OPINION OF THE BESAFE IZI TURN B

Besafe iZi Turn B is a very sturdy, high safety rated car seat that does fit well from birth to approximately 4 years old. It is one of the very few multistage seats that truly fits safely from birth and lasts much longer than most other infant seats. It installs more securely than most rotating car seats, which tend to wobble more on the base. The rotation feature is very convenient, with the optional iZi Transfer accessory to make it easier to move your baby from the car to the pram, as the iZi Turn B cannot be clipped onto a pram. It installs quite compactly and works well in smaller cars, and those with sloped back seats. 

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE BESAFE IZI TURN B?

The letter "B" in the name stands for "birth". It is iSize approved from 40cm-105cm/18kg in rear facing or 88-105cm in forward facing. This usually lasts average-sized children from birth until they are approximately 4 years old. 

HOW IS THE BESAFE IZI TURN B INSTALLED?

The iZi Turn B can only be installed with isofix. It therefore requires the car to have isofix brackets. It cannot be installed with seatbelt. The seat cannot be removed from its base.

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE BESAFE IZI TURN B

The iZi Turn B comes with a removeable Baby Shell. This ensures proper protection from birth. The Baby Shell acts as a protective barrier for small babies carrier until 87cm.

The iZi Turn B cannot be used forward facing while the baby shell is still in. This ensures that parents do not forward face their child too soon. 

The Side Impact Protection (SIP+) placed on the side towards the car door, increases the safety of the child if a side impact should happen. 

The iZi Twist B has also passed the World's most stringent crash test; The Swedish Plus Test.

The iZi Turn B seat has not been independently crash tested in forward facing mode. Therefore, we recommend using the seat rearfacing until 105cm/18kg (which is always safest anyway!).

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE BESAFE IZI TURN B

The iZi Turn B can rotate, using one hand, towards the door which makes it easier to get your baby into and out of the car seat. While using the Baby Shell it can rotate 180 degrees. Once the Baby Shell is out it can rotate a full 360 degrees. 

The BeSafe iZi Turn B has 4 recline positions. The most reclined position must be used while the Baby Shell is still being used for optimal comfort and safety for a newborn.

The BeSafe iZi Turn B has a built in spirit level that ensures the seat is at the perfect recline in every car. This is especially useful in cars with slanted back seats or limited cabin space. This will prevent your baby's head from flopping forward when they sleep.

The headrest has 10 adjustable height settings, to accommodate your growing child. It is very easy to adjust the harness and headrest simultaneously.

All BeSafe car seats have magnets in the harness in order to keep it out the way while putting your child in. It also has ventilation holes in the backrest, to keep your child cool.

CAN THE IZI TURN B BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM?

No, the BeSafe iZi Turn B stays in the vehicle and cannot be clicked onto a pram. The iZi Transfer can be purchased to make it easier to transfer your sleeping baby from the car seat to the pram.

4) BESAFE STRETCH B

OUR OPINION OF THE STRETCH B

Besafe Stretch B scores very well for safety and is THE longest lasting harnessed car seat available in South Africa; from birth to approximately 7 years. It has very good postural support and recline for newborns. It works well in cars with sloped back seats due to its deep recline, but does take up a bit more cabin space and is more complicated to install than removable infant car seats. It has extendable legroom, which allows you to install it more compactly or to give your child more legroom as they grow. It is narrow enough to allow 3 across installation in many cars.

This seat is a brilliant option if:

a)  your car does not have isofix, 

b) you need to fit 3 across 

c) and/or your baby is likely to be bigger than average. 

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE BESAFE STRETCH B? 

The BeSafe Stretch B is the only seat approved to 36kg seat on the market that is fits newborns securely and reclines sufficiently to prevent headflop. The letter "B" in the name stands for birth. It is iSize approved from 40cm-125cm/36kg. It can only be installed in rear facing.

This usually lasts average-sized children from birth until they are 7 years old.  This is currently the longest lasting extended rear facing seat on the market.

HOW IS THE BESAFE STRETCH B INSTALLED? 

The Stretch B is installed with the vehicles 3-point seatbelt and 2 lower tether anchors. This makes it a very universal seat where it can fit in any car with a 3-point seat belt. It cannot be installed with isofix. It is time consuming and complicated to install, but when done properly, it installs extremely securely. All car seats bought through us receive a free installation check, to ensure correct installation. 

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE BESAFE STRETCH B

The Stretch B comes with a removeable Baby Shell. This ensures proper protection and support from birth. The Baby Shell acts as a protective barrier for small babies until 87cm.

The Stretch B can only be used rearfacing and this is why it performed so incredibly well in crash testing because rearfacing is 500% safer than forward facing. 

The Side Impact Protection (SIP+) placed on the side towards the car door, increases the safety of the child if a side impact should happen. The anti-rebound brace and the lower tether anchors reduce the rebound forces and the load leg and the seatbelt reduce downward rotation forces in a collision.

The load leg has audio-visual indicators that tell you if your have installed it correctly. 

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE BESAFE STRETCH B

The Stretch B is well padded all around and includes a removable shell for younger babies as well as removeable padded inserts for older babies. 

It has 5 deep recline positions which can be adjusted as your baby grows. The Stretch B can be installed with up to 26cm of legroom to ensure your child is as comfortable as possible right up to the age of approx. 7 years old. 

The headrest has 10 adjustable height settings, to accommodate your growing child. It is very easy to adjust the harness and headrest simultaneously. 

All BeSafe car seats have magnets in the harness in order to keep it out the way while putting your child in. It also has ventilation holes in the backrest, to keep your child cool. If you would like more airflow and ventilation- the seat is also available in a mesh variant. 

The Stretch B has self-tensioning tethers as well as a seatbelt tensioner at the back of the seat, in order to achieve a very secure installation. 

CAN THE STRETCH B BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM? 

No, the BeSafe Stretch B stays in the vehicle and cannot be clicked onto a pram. The iZi Transfer can be purchased to make it easier to transfer your sleeping baby from the car seat to the pram.

5) CYBEX ATON B2

OUR OPINION ON THE CYBEX ATON B2

Cybex Aton B2 is the most affordable, high safety rated infant car seat. It offers very good postural support for newborns. Although you cannot adjust the recline, it has a well-designed backrest that positions babies well and does not cause headflop. Its Base One does not rotate and is not compatible with a toddler cars seat. Aton B2 is a very good option if you're on a budget or if you need to fit 3 across as it is narrow.

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE CYBEX ATON B2

The Cybex Aton B2 is i-size approved from 45cm to 87cm/13kg. This is from birth until approximately 18 months old for average sized babies. 

HOW IS THE CYBEX ATON B2 INSTALLED? 

The Cybex Aton B2 can be installed with the vehicles 3-point seatbelt or with the Cybex Base One isofix base.  The Cybex Base One isofix base can only be used in vehicles with isofix anchors.  The Cybex Base One is not compatible with any toddler seat. 

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE CYBEX ATON B2 

The Aton B2 has been built with an energy absorbing shell for ultimate protection. The infant insert contains firm side support cushions to keep baby upright and to protect the baby's internal organs in a collision.

The Aton B2 contains Linear Side Protection on both sides of the seat. This reduces the force of impact in a side collision by 25%. 

When used without the isofix base and installed with the seatbelt, it scores 1.7 for safety which is also considered "good". In both cases it displayed a very low risk of injury in a frontal collision and a low risk of injury in a side collision. 

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE CYBEX ATON B2 

The Aton B2 comes with a removeable infant insert that ensures a near-flat lying position for newborn babies. This ensures their airway stays open when they don't have head control. This insert gets removed at 61cm. 

The headrest and harness can be raised simultaneously as your baby grows by simply pulling the lever at the top of the head rest.  

CAN THE CYBEX ATON B2 BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM? 

Yes, The Aton B2 is compatible with Cybex, Thule, BabyZen YOYO, Stokke, and other stroller brands. You will need the appropriate adapters to click the seat onto the pram. 

6) CYBEX CLOUD G 

OUR OPINION ON THE CYBEX CLOUD G

Cybex Cloud G is the most affordable modular system built around a single ISOFIX Base G that works with both the Cloud G infant seat and the Sirona G toddler seat. It adds everyday convenience with 180° rotation for easier harnessing and a reclinable backrest usable in the car and on the stroller. The fit is suitable for preterm and newborn babies, and it’s TÜV-approved for aircraft use, making it a practical choice for travel.

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE CYBEX CLOUD G

The Cybex Cloud G is approved from 40cm to 87cm/13kg. This lasts the average sized baby from birth until approximately 18 months of age.

HOW IS THE CLOUD G INSTALLED?

The Cybex Cloud G can be installed with the vehicles 3-point seatbelt or with the Cybex Base G isofix base.   

The rotation function can only be used when using the Base G isofix base. The seat can be reclined when installed with the seatbelt or with the isofix base. The isofix base can only be used in vehicles with isofix anchors.  The Base G isofix base is also compatible with the Cybex Sirona G toddler seat.

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE CYBEX CLOUD G

The Cloud G has been built with an energy absorbing shell as well as Linear Side Protection which ensures ultimate safety in a side collision. This reduces the force of impact by 15% in a side collision. The infant insert contains firm side support cushions to keep baby upright and to protect the baby's internal organs in a collision. The base has visual indicators to ensure correct installation. 

When installed with the Base G isofix base, the Cloud G has a safety rating of 1.7 which is "good" with a very low risk of injury in a frontal collision and a low risk of injury in a side collision.

COMFORT FEATURES OF CYBEX CLOUD G

The Cloud G can be rotated towards the door which makes it easier to get your baby in and out of the car. Once rotated, the Base G automatically releases the Cloud G so it can simply be lifted off the base.   

The Cloud G comes with a removable infant insert that ensures a near-flat lying position for premature and newborn babies. This ensures their airway stays open when they don't have head control. This insert gets removed at 61cm.  

The headrest and harness can be raised simultaneously as your baby grows by simply pulling the lever at the top of the head rest. There are 11 harness and headrest heights.  

The Cloud G backrest can be reclined in the car and on the pram to create a flatter lying position for baby. It can also be reclined when installed with seatbelt. Being flatter on their backs is a much safer position for babies to be in when using it outside the car or on the pram.

The Cloud G has been built with All-round air ventilation which provides a consistently pleasant seating temperature in all seasons.

CAN THE CYBEX CLOUD G BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM? 

Yes, The Cloud G is compatible with Cybex, Thule, BabyZen YOYO, Stokke, and other stroller brands. You will need the appropriate adapters to click the seat onto the pram. 

7) CYBEX CLOUD T (Previously known as Cloud Z2)

OUR OPINION ON THE CYBEX CLOUD T

Cybex Cloud T scores very well for safety when installed with or without the Base T, and is one of the highest safety rated infant seats available at the moment. It offers convenient 180 degree rotation and recline when used with Base T. It reclines more deeply than Cloud G. Base T is also compatible with Sirona T toddler car seat. The major differences between the Cybex G-Line and the T-Line is that the T-Line scores better than the G-Line, Cloud T reclines deeper than Cloud G, the T-Line has more luxurious fabric and finishes, and Sirona T offers more legroom in rear facing than Sirona G toddler seats

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE CYBEX CLOUD T

The Cybex Cloud T is approved from 45cm to 87cm/13kg. This lasts the average sized baby from birth until approximately 18 months of age.

HOW IS THE CLOUD T INSTALLED?

The Cybex Cloud T can be installed with the vehicles 3-point seatbelt or with the Cybex Base T isofix base.  

The rotation function and recline function can only be used when using the Base T isofix base. The isofix base can only be used in vehicles with isofix anchors. 

The Base T isofix base is also compatible with the Cybex Sirona T toddler seat (also compatible with older versions; Sirona Z/Z2).

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE CYBEX CLOUD T

The Cloud T has been built with an energy absorbing shell as well as Linear Side Protection which ensures ultimate safety in a side collision. It scores particularly well for side impact as a result.

The Linear Side Protection needs to be flicked out on the side closest to the vehicle door. This reduces the force of impact by 25% in a side collision.

The infant insert contains firm side support cushions to keep baby upright and to protect the baby's internal organs in a collision.

The base boasts audiovisual indicators to ensure correct installation. 

When installed with the Base T isofix base, the Cloud T has a safety rating of 1.3 which is "very good" with a very low risk of injury in a frontal collision and a very low risk of injury in a side collision.

COMFORT FEATURES OF CYBEX CLOUD T

The Cloud T can be rotated towards the door which makes it easier to get your baby into and out of the car. The rotation can be done with one hand. 

The Cloud T comes with a removeable infant insert that ensures a near-flat lying position for newborn babies. This ensures their airway stays open when they don't have head control. 

The headrest and harness can be raised simultaneously as your baby grows by simply pulling the lever at the top of the head rest. There are 11 harness and headrest heights. 

The Cloud T backrest has 3 recline positions. When inside the car; the Cloud T backrest can be used in the first position or reclined to the second recline position to create a flatter lying position for baby and outside the car it can be used in any of the 3 recline positions. Being flatter on their backs is a much safer position for babies to be in when using it outside the car or on the pram.

CAN THE CYBEX CYBEX CLOUD T BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM? 

Yes, The Cloud T is compatible with Cybex, Thule, BabyZen YOYO, Stokke, and other stroller brands. You will need the appropriate adapters to click the seat onto the pram. 

8) MAXI COSI CABRIOFIX I-SIZE

OUR OPINION OF THE CABRIOFIX I-SIZE

Maxi Cosi Cabriofix i-size is one of the lightest infant seats available and scores very well for safety. It fits newborn and premature babies very well due to the buckle slot being positioned so close to baby's nappy. It has a rethread harness, which can make it tricky to get the harness to the correct height as there are only 2 heights to choose from. The backrest cannot be reclined, and the base it was tested with by ADAC has been discontinued. It is, however, compatible with the new Maxi Cosi FamilyFix S base, which is also compatible with Maxi Cosi Pearl S toddler car seat. 

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE MAXI COSI CABRIOFIX I-SIZE

The Cabriofix i-size is approve from 40cm until 75cm/12kg. This is from birth until approximately 12 months old for the average sized baby.

HOW IS THE MAXI COSI CABRIOFIX I-SIZE INSTALLED?

The Maxi Cosi Cabriofix i-size can be installed with the vehicles 3-point seatbelt. Alternatively, it can be installed with the Maxi Cosi Cabriofix i-size isofix base , however, it has been discontinued. It is also compatible with FamilyFix S base 

Your vehicle needs to have isofix anchors in order to use either of the isofix bases. 

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE MAXI COSI CABRIOFIX I-SIZE

The Cabriofix i-size has  Side Impact Protection for additional protection and improved impact-absorbing material, which absorbs even more force from an impact, in case of an accident. 

If installed with either one of the isofix bases, visual indicators on the isofix base will ensure correct and safe installation.

The Cabriofix i-size was tested by ADAC with the vehicle seat belt and with the Cabriofix i-size isofix base. 

When installed with the vehicle's 3-point seatbelt; the Cabriofix received a score of 1.3 for safety which is "very good" with a very low risk of injury in both a frontal and side collision. 

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE MAXI COSI CABRIOFIX I-SIZE

The Cabriofix i-size is a very good option for small or premature babies due to the angle of the back rest and the narrow shell which provides good postural support. The buckle if also placed deeper into the seat which eliminates the likeliness of the baby slumping over or having a gap between the baby's nappy and the buckle

It comes with a removable newborn inlay that keeps the head of your baby safe and comfortable. It is not very padded.

The Cabriofix i-size is currently the lightest infant car seat on the market weighing in at only 3.2kgs.

CAN THE MAXI COSI CABRIOFIX I-SIZE BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM?  

Yes, The Cabriofix i-size is compatible with Maxi Cosi, Thule, BabyZen YOYO, Stokke, and other stroller brands. You will need the appropriate adapters to click the seat onto the pram. 

9) THE MAXI COSI MICA 360 PRO (SLIDETECH™)

OUR OPINION ON MAXI COSI MICA 360 PRO

Maxi Cosi Mica 360 Pro is one of the very few multistage car seats that do fit newborns safely from birth due to the well-padded newborn inlay. It is comfortable for babies and toddlers, but does not offer much legroom as toddlers grow (although, children are flexibile and this does not bother them!). The 360 degree rotation and ability to slide out the door makes it very easy and convenient to use and strap your child in without straining your back. It is especially convenient when transferring a sleeping baby in and out the car. It is heavy to move between cars, but quick to install. 

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE MAXI COSI MICA 360 PRO? 

The Maxi Cosi Mica 360 Pro is an iSize approved car seat from 40 to 105cm/18kg in rear facing or from 76cm to 105cm/18kg in forward facing. We recommend rearfacing until the seat is outgrown. This usually lasts average-sized children until they are approximately 4 years old.  

HOW IS THE MAXI COSI MICA 360 PRO INSTALLED? 

The Mica 360 Pro can only be installed in cars that have isofix brackets. It has a built-in isofix base so it does not separate from the seat and you don't need to buy a separate isofix base. It cannot be installed with seatbelt. The support leg cannot be installed on top of an underfloor storage compartment.  

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE MAXI COSI MICA 360 PRO

The Mica 360 Pro has been built with G-CELL 2.0 Side Impact Protection which adds an extra built-in guard and provides maximum protection with improved 3D impact absorption from multiple angles as well as a headrest with protective memory foam for extra safety. 

The integrated isofix base has visual indicators to ensure you install the seat correctly and the seat has an "anti-misuse" button that prevents forward facing before your child is 15 months old.  

ADAC gave it a score of 2.0 for safety which is considered "good" with low risk of injury in a frontal impact collision and low risk of injury in a side impact collision.

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE MAXI COSI MICA 360 PRO

The Mica 360 Pro provides optimal ease of use and comfort, due to the easy-in harness which has springs in the harness so that it is easy to strap your child in as well as the ability to rotate towards the door for ease of getting your child in and out of the seat. It also features Maxi Cosi's Slidetech technology which allows you to slide the seat toward you when rotated to make it easier for you to get your child into and out of the seat.

The seat can be rotated on any recline and can be done with one hand. The Mica 360 Pro comes with a Baby-hugg inlay which makes it suitable from birth. It has multiple recline angles for optimal comfort. 

The Mica 360 Pro has been designed with ClimaFlow panels and breathable fabrics for optimal air circulation to keep your child at a comfortable temperature.   

The Mica 360 Pro is sustainably made: manufactured from 100% recyclable materials making it ecofriendly.

CAN THE MAXI COSI MICA 360 PRO BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM?  

No, The Maxi Cosi Mica 360 Pro stays in the vehicle and cannot be clicked onto any pram.

10) MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360 PRO² (SLIDETECH) 

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360 PRO² 

The Maxi Cosi Pebble 360 Pro² is i-size approved from 40cm until 87cm/13kgs. This is from birth until approximately 18 months old for the average sized baby. 

HOW IS THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360 PRO² INSTALLED 

The Pebble 360 Pro² can be installed with the vehicle's 3-point seatbelt, or with the Maxi Cosi FamilyFix360 Pro isofix base.  The swivel/rotation feature can only be used when the Pebble 360 Pro² is installed with the FamilyFix 360 Pro isofix base. Your vehicle needs to have isofix anchors in order to install the seat with the FamilyFix 360 Pro isofix base.  

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360 PRO² 

The Pebble 360 Pro² has been built with innovative G-CELL Side Impact Technology, as an extra-protective built-in guard for side collisions. When used with the FamilyFix 360 Pro isofix base, the isofix base will show you if your installation is correct by means of visual indicators that turn from red to green.  

ADAC tested the Pebble 360 Pro² with seatbelt and with the FamilyFix 360 Pro isofix base.

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360 PRO² 

When the Pebble 360 Pro² is installed with the FamilyFix 360 Pro isofix base; the seat can be rotated towards the door and it can slide out the door with the Slidetech for ease of getting your baby into and out of the car. The Pebble 360 Pro² can be rotated and slid towards the door with one hand. The Pebble 360 Pro² is equipped with 3 recline settings. All 3 settings can be used in the car (with and without the isofix base) and out of the car on the pram or floor.

The Pebble 360 Pro² has a easy-in harness which springs open to make it easier when strapping your baby into the seat.  The Pebble 360 Pro² has been built with special ClimaFlow panels, breathable foam and fabrics which encourage air circulation to ensure your child is always at the right temperature. 

The Pebble 360 Pro² comes with a baby-hugg inlay for newborns which adds postural support and comfort for babies under 60cm. The harness and head rest can be adjusted easily for your growing baby by lifting the tab on top of the head rest.  Additionally, the Pebble 360 Pro² has a large independent sun canopy.   

The FamilyFix 360 Pro isofix base is also compatible with the Pearl 360 Pro toddler seat. Therefore, you can use the FamilyFix 360 Pro isofix base for approximately 4 years. 

CAN THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360 PRO² BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM?      

Yes, The Pebble 360 Pro² is compatible with Maxi Cosi, Thule, BabyZen YoYo, Stokke, and other stroller brands with the appropriate adapters. 

11) THULE MAPLE

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE THULE MAPLE

Thule Maple is i-size approved from 40cm until 75cm/13kgs. This is from birth until approximately 12 months old for the average sized baby. 

HOW IS THE THULE MAPLE INSTALLED 

The Thule Maple can be installed with the vehicle's 3-point seatbelt, or with the Thule Alfi isofix base.  The swivel/rotation feature can only be used when the Maple is installed with the Alfi isofix base. Your vehicle needs to have isofix anchors in order to install the seat with the Alfi isofix base.  

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE THULE MAPLE

Thule Maple is designed to offer superior safety features and ease of use. Equipped with the Thule Impact Protection System that envelops your child in a secure, protective layer, protecting in all angles. Thule SenseAffirm System on the Alfi base provides precise digital display guidance on adjustments to ensure correct installation in the car.

Thule Maple was tested by ADAC and scored 1.7 for safety (with isofix base) and 1.5 for safety (without isofix base) 

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE THULE MAPLE

Thule Maple offers comfortable padding and the seat fabrics are soft yet durable for skin comfort; and a water-repellent canopy with UPF50+ helps shield against light rain and sun exposure. With practical features like a reclinable backrest when used on a Thule stroller for better nap support on the move. The Alfi isofix base provides 180° rotation to make it easier on your back when harnessing your baby in. Alfi base is also compatible with Thule Elm toddler seat  for when your baby outgrows the Maple. 

CAN THE THULE MAPLE BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM?      

Yes, The Thule Maple is compatible with any Thule pram with the appropriate adapters. 

Please click on the images below to view the highest safety rated infant car seats that we sell. Feel free to contact us if you require any further information or would like to book a consultation.