A child seat (0-9 kg), also known as a Group 0 or infant car seat, is designed for newborns and babies up to 12 months old. These seats provide optimal safety, comfort, and support for fragile infants by offering a rear-facing position, which is the safest way for young babies to travel.
This guide covers why an infant car seat is essential, types of 0-9 kg car seats, installation methods, safety tips, and legal requirements to help parents choose the best option.
✔ Provides Maximum Protection – Designed to absorb impact and protect a baby’s delicate head, neck, and spine.
✔ Mandatory by Law – Most countries require infants under 1 year to travel in a rear-facing car seat.
✔ Comfort & Support – Special headrests, recline positions, and padding support newborns.
✔ Convenient for Parents – Many infant car seats double as carriers and can attach to strollers.
Fact: Rear-facing seats reduce the risk of fatal injuries by up to 75% compared to forward-facing seats for infants.
✔ Designed exclusively for infants (0-12 months).
✔ Portable and can be used as a baby carrier.
✔ Includes extra head and neck support for fragile newborns.
✔ Usually features a removable base for easy installation.
Best For: Parents who want a dedicated, lightweight seat for their newborn.
✔ Can be used from birth and later converted to forward-facing.
✔ Not as portable as infant car seats.
✔ Allows for extended rear-facing travel for added safety.
Best For: Parents who want a long-term investment in a growing child’s car seat.
Safety Tip: Always keep babies rear-facing as long as possible—this protects their developing bones and muscles.
Proper installation is critical for safety. Follow these steps:
✔ The back seat is the safest location for an infant car seat.
✔ Avoid front-seat installation unless the airbag is deactivated.
✔ ISOFIX System – Offers a secure, easy-to-install connection to the car frame.
✔ Seatbelt Installation – Uses the car’s three-point seatbelt to secure the seat.
✔ The harness should fit snugly (no slack should be pinchable).
✔ The chest clip should be at armpit level.
✔ Straps should be at or below the baby’s shoulders.
✔ The seat should not move more than 2.5 cm when pulled at the base.
✔ The baby’s head should not fall forward when asleep.
Pro Tip: 80% of car seats are installed incorrectly—always double-check the manual or get a professional car seat check.
Most countries require infants to travel in a rear-facing car seat until at least 12 months.
| Country | Rear-Facing Required Until | Infant Seat Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| USA | 2 years | Must use a rear-facing seat |
| UK | 15 months | Must use i-Size or Group 0 |
| EU | 15 months | Must meet R129 i-Size standards |
| Australia | 6 months | Must be rear-facing |
| Canada | 2 years | Must be rear-facing |
Tip: Always check local laws before traveling to ensure compliance.
| Model | Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Maxi-Cosi Pebble 360 | Rear-Facing Infant Seat | 360° rotation, ISOFIX base |
| Britax Römer Baby-Safe 3 i-Size | Rear-Facing Infant Seat | Advanced side impact protection |
| Cybex Cloud Z i-Size | Rear-Facing Infant Seat | Reclines for extra comfort |
| Graco SnugRide SnugFit 35 | Rear-Facing Infant Seat | Lightweight, easy to carry |
| Joie i-Level Recline | Rear-Facing Infant Seat | Converts into a travel system |
Recommendation: Choose a seat with ISOFIX compatibility for easier, safer installation.
A baby should stay in a 0-9 kg seat until they meet ALL of these conditions:
✔ They exceed the height or weight limit of the seat.
✔ They can sit upright unassisted.
✔ They are at least 12 months old (but preferably closer to 2 years).
Once they outgrow the 0-9 kg seat, the next step is a rear-facing convertible car seat (9-18 kg).
Safety Tip: Do not switch to forward-facing before age 2—rear-facing travel is 5x safer for young children.
Yes! A rear-facing infant car seat is one of the most important safety investments for newborns and babies. It ensures:
✔ Protection from severe injuries in crashes.
✔ Compliance with legal safety regulations.
✔ Comfortable, stress-free travel for both baby and parent.
✅ Keep your baby rear-facing as long as possible (preferably until 2 years old).
✅ Use ISOFIX for a secure installation (if available).
✅ Always tighten the harness properly before each trip.
✅ Never place a child seat in front of an active airbag.
By choosing the right child seat (0-9 kg), you ensure your baby’s safety, comfort, and protection on every journey! 🚗👶💙
✔ Yes, most car rental companies, including Infinity Rent a Car, offer infant seats as an add-on service.
✔ No. Babies must always travel rear-facing for safety.
✔ Yes. ISOFIX provides a more secure and stable installation, reducing movement during travel.
✔ Some airlines allow FAA-approved car seats, but they must fit the airplane seat.
✔ Cybex Cloud Z i-Size – Compact design with a reclining function for extra comfort.
