5 Things You Need to Know Before Buying a Newborn Car Seat

Buying a newborn car seat is one of the most important safety decisions parents will make. It can also be one of the most confusing. With different regulations, installation methods and price points, it is easy to feel unsure about what really matters.

Choosing the best car seat is not about finding the most expensive option. It is about understanding the rules, knowing what fits both baby and car, and making an informed decision before spending.

Here are five things to know before buying a newborn car seat:

1. Safety Standards Come First

All car seats sold in the UK must meet strict safety regulations. There are currently two approved standards in use:

• R44 (weight-based car seats)

• R129, also known as i-Size (height-based car seats)

An i-Size car seat is designed around a child’s height and is tested to meet specific standards for protection in side-on collisions, helping to reduce the risk of injury in side impacts. Under the R129 (i-Size) regulation, children must remain rear facing until they are over 15 months old.

R44 weight-based seats are still legal and approved. These seats categorise suitability by a child’s weight rather than height.

When looking for the safest baby car seat, it is important to focus on:

• The safety regulation the seat meets

• Independent safety testing results

• Whether the seat fits both the child and the car correctly

  
  

Price and brand recognition alone are not reliable indicators of safety.

2. Understanding ISOFIX and Seatbelt Fitting

An ISOFIX car seat connects directly to anchor points built into the car, which can help reduce the risk of incorrect installation. Seatbelt-fitted car seats are also safe when installed correctly and remain a practical option for many families. Before choosing, parents should check:

• Whether their car has ISOFIX anchor points

• How securely the seat installs in their vehicle

• Whether they can confidently install and check the seat each time

  
  

Correct installation is critical to safety, regardless of the fixing method used.

3. Make Sure the Seat Truly Fits a Newborn

Not all car seats marketed as suitable “from birth” provide the same level of support for very small babies. A properly fitting newborn car seat should:

• Offer head and neck support using manufacturer-approved inserts

• Allow the harness to sit snugly and correctly

• Maintain the correct recline angle to support breathing

  
  

It is also important to consider how long a newborn spends in a car seat. Safety guidance recommends that newborns should not remain in a car seat for longer than around two hours at a time, as extended periods in a seated position can affect breathing and posture. Car seats are designed for travel, not for prolonged sleep or everyday use outside the car.

4. Car Seat Rules Depend on the Type of Seat

UK car seat rules vary depending on whether a seat is weight-based or height-based. It is important not to make assumptions or generalised statements. According to guidance:

Weight-based seats (R44)

• Approved seats have a label showing a capital ‘E’ in a circle and ‘ECE R44’

• Babies must remain rear facing until they weigh more than 9kg

• Seat suitability depends on the child’s weight

  
  

Height-based seats (R129 / i-Size)

• Approved seats have a label showing a capital ‘E’ in a circle and ‘R129’

• These seats must remain rear facing until a child is over 15 months old

• Seat suitability depends on the child’s height

Parents are encouraged to refer to government guidance for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

5. You Can Be Safety-First Without Overspending

Car seats vary significantly in price, but safety is determined by regulation, fit and correct use, not by cost alone.

There are many compliant, well-tested options available at accessible price points. Planning ahead can also allow families to take advantage of car seat discounts, rather than feeling pressured into a last-minute purchase.

💡 Cubbi tip: Cubbi members can access discounts on trusted baby and travel brands including Cosatto, Ickle Bubba, Silver Cross and iCandy, helping parents prioritise safety while keeping spending in check.

Before You Buy: A Quick Checklist

• Which regulation does this car seat meet, R44 or R129?

• Is the seat suitable for my baby’s current size according to manufacturer guidance?

• Does the seat install securely in my car?

• Am I confident fitting and checking the seat correctly every time?

• Does it support rear-facing travel for the required period?

• Are there available discounts that allow me to save without compromising on safety?

This article was written in accordance with guidance available in January 2026. As advice and regulations can change, it’s always worth checking the most up-to-date guidance and manufacturer instructions when choosing a car seat.