Everything you need to know about a Maxi-cosi

Which car seat is safe? Where can I place the car seat? And until when can my child be in a car seat? Questions we often get. Therefore, the most important questions and answers at a glance:

Everything you need to know about a Maxi-cosi

We often get the question whether a second-hand Maxi-Cosi is safe. According to the ANWB, there are 4 important checks you can do:

Choose a car seat that meets safety standards. See here the results of the ANWB test of car seats that were tested in 2019.

• Make sure that the seat is not older than 7-10 years.
• Check the exact lifespan on the manufacturer's website. The plastic used ages due to exposure to sunlight (UV radiation).
• Check for damage and breakages. Remove the cover and check the car seat for cracks, deformations and breaks.
• You can also inquire whether there have been any accidents with it. Then a car seat can be irreparably damaged, just like a helmet.

Provide a manual so that you install the car seat properly. Of course, a car seat that is loose does not offer good protection. So that's the main thing.

We carry out these checks carefully to check whether the car seat is still usable. We also have a special shock meter that registers whether the seat has received a major blow.

Can I also place the seat in the front?

You can put your child in the Maxi-Cosi in the front (very convenient to put the pacifier back in), but then you have to turn off the airbag of the passenger seat! This can often be done easily with your key next to the door or in the glove compartment.

Until when can your child stay in a Maxi-Cosi?

A child is allowed in a Maxi-Cosi until the head protrudes above the edge, he/she is 13 kilos or longer than 83 cm. Then you move to a chair that faces forward.

What are the latest safety standards?

A new standard was introduced for car seats in June 2018. It states that children up to 15 months must be transported rearward facing and that the seat must be fitted with isofix. You can still use seats with seat belts, but they will soon disappear from the market. When buying a car seat, make sure that it says 'I-size', then you know that they comply with the new legislation. This is, for example, the Pebble Plus from Maxico-Cosi.

How long can my child be in a car seat?

It is recommended that you do not leave your child in the Maxi-Cosi for more than 2 hours, because your baby has little room to move in the seat. Keeping it in longer is not good for motor development. A few times during a car trip to a holiday is of course no problem, but it is not recommended on a structural basis.

Tighten straps

The straps must be tightened properly, so that it also provides good protection in the event of a collision. It is recommended to place 2 fingers between the belt and your baby.

Cases

A cover for your Maxi-cosi is not an unnecessary luxury, given the possible (and common) accidents your baby may have. Nice and well priced are those from Dooky, for example, but you have them in all shapes and sizes.