A booster is a backless chair that attaches to the car seat. Since the height of a child is much shorter than that of an adult, the use of seat belts creates inconvenience for a young passenger, and in the event of an accident, it can increase the number of injuries. Therefore, a booster must be used to raise the calf to the correct level and to ensure that the strap is correctly fitted.
Which manufacturer to choose
The main purpose of the booster is to ensure the safety of the young passenger. Therefore, it is so important to choose those products that have passed strict quality control, participated in crash tests and received safety certificates.
Some of the best manufacturers of booster car seats are:
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Clek;
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Heyner;
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Chicco;
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Caretero;
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Siger;
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TEAM TEX (Nania).
What to look for when buying
Booster type
Boosters are usually included in the third group of car seats. Such products are designed for 22–36 kg of a child's weight, whose height is at least 120–130 cm. But some models can be used for children weighing 15–36 kg (3–12 years old) – group 2/3.
Car seats are divided into three types:
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Compressed foam boosters are lightweight and comfortable. They are low cost, easy to transport and take up little space. But in the event of an accident, they will not be able to ensure the safety of the child. In the event of an accident, such boosters break directly under the calf, as a result of which the passenger may receive additional damage from the seat belts.
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High impact plastic boosters are stronger than foam products. They are inexpensive and lightweight. Such products ensure the safety of the little passenger. Some plastic structures are supplemented with damping inserts that absorb impact forces.
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Metal frame boosters are the most durable models. They are made as a sandwich. On top of the metal frame, there are several protective layers (for example, made of foam and polypropylene) and a soft pad with fabric. Such products are heavier and more expensive than foam and plastic models, but they provide a more comfortable and safe stay for the child in the car.
Mountings
Most of the products are fixed with standard seat belts. But such a fastening cannot guarantee a reliable fit of the booster to the seat – in the event of an accident, the model can go astray, and the belt can harm the baby.
The most reliable are Latch and Isofix mounts, which ensure the connection of the car seat to the car body.
Design
It is best to choose products with armrests. This will make the trip more comfortable, help the child to hold on during sharp turns and maintain the correct position according to the seat belts.
Tips for choosing
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When buying, keep in mind that the booster will be used for several years. Therefore, choose models with a cover that can be removed and machine washed.
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The presence of an ergonomic seat will make the trip more comfortable and the child's legs will not be numb.
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Choose products labeled ECE R44 / 04 or ECE R44 / 03. This is an indicator that the car seats have passed strict quality control and are completely safe for the child.
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You cannot use used car seats. If there were minor accidents in the past of the booster, this could affect its strength. In the event of a new accident, the product may not withstand the load, and the child will take the whole blow.
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The booster should be chosen not only for the weight and height of the child. It also has to match the size of the seat and the length of the car's seat belts.
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The young passenger should feel comfortable in the booster, even when wearing warm outerwear.
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In the following articles, our experts will tell you how to choose the right car seat for your child.
Attention! This material is the subjective opinion of the authors of the project and is not a purchase guide.
