How and where to place a child seat

You want to keep your child as safe as possible on the road, and installing their seat correctly is a big part of that. A child seat is one of the most effective ways to keep your child safe while driving. It keeps them secure and helps reduce the risk of injury during an accident.  It doesn’t have to be difficult once you know how to do it. 

Don’t worry though, we’re here to make the process simple for you. Since there are many different child seats on the market now, we’re here to walk you through how to install them and guide you in finding the one that’s best for your car.

Child seats are a must when traveling with young children since they provide extra protection during sudden stops or accidents and help keep your child secure. However, you must always choose a child seat that satisfies safety standards. 

In the Philippines, child seats must follow the safety standards set by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). These are based on the United Nations Regulations 44 and 149, which make sure the seats have been tested and are safe for use. When choosing a child seat, look for labels that show it meets these safety requirements. These labels will also show the weight, height, and age range the seat is appropriate for, so you can pick the right one for your child.

The best place to install a child seat is in the second row of your car. While the front seat may seem convenient, it can be dangerous due to airbags. Airbags, added to protect adults, can actually harm children if they deploy, so it’s safer to place the seat in the back.

There are two common types of child seat installation systems: seat belt-type and ISOFIX. Both are made to secure the seat in place, but the installation process and ease of use vary. Knowing the differences between these two systems will help you decide which works best for your vehicle and your child’s seat.

Seat Belt-type child seats use your car’s built-in seatbelt system to secure the seat. These seats are usually for children aged seven months to two years old, and many models can be adjusted as your child grows to convert into booster seats. The seatbelt-type installation works with almost all cars, so it is really a flexible option.

To install this type of seat, pull the seat belt through the back of the child seat and buckle it securely. Make sure the seat belt is tight enough to keep the seat from moving. Follow the seat’s instructions to make sure the belt is routed correctly for your child’s age and size.

The advantage of a seatbelt-type seat is that it can fit in nearly any car, new or old. However, you need to make sure it’s properly installed.

ISOFIX child seats are easier to install and secure compared to seat belt-type seats. Many newer cars have ISOFIX tethers, which are metal bars located between the backrest and cushion of the second-row seats to fit ISOFIX child seats and make the installation quicker and more secure.

To install an ISOFIX seat, simply align the seat’s connectors with the ISOFIX tethers and click them into place. You’ll hear a "click" when it’s locked. Some cars even have markings to help you find the tethers.

ISOFIX installations are popular because they are simple and secure. Once connected, the seat stays firmly in place, reducing the risk of incorrect installation. However, make sure your car has ISOFIX tethers before choosing this type of seat.

ISOFIX tethers, or anchors, are usually found in the backseat of a car, which is the safest place to put a child seat. This keeps the child away from airbags, which are safe for adults but can be dangerous for kids because their bodies are still growing. Airbags open with a lot of force, so it’s safer for kids to be in the back. In some cars, the ISOFIX anchors might be hidden between the seat cushions, and there may be small tags or symbols to show where they are. Checking the car manual can help you find them easily!

Now that you know the basics of where to place a child seat, feel free to explore the range of cars offered at AutoDeal.com.ph. For more convenience, you can also download the AutoDeal app and shop for your next car right from your phone. There’s no better time to buy a car, and the AutoDeal app is here to help you every step of the way. Download it today for iOS and Android and start your car-buying journey with us.