ISOFIX or car belt: which child seat attachment system is best?

When buying a child seat, we often ask ourselves: what type of mounting to choose? Currently we can meet its two types, namely the factory belt in the car and the ISOFIX base. While there are many theories about their safety, experts say that any car seat provides it, as long as it is properly attached. Just how to do it and what are the actual differences between the above methods of mounting child seats? The answer to this question can be found in the following article.

A car belt provides safety only if it is well routed

Mounting with a car belt has many advantages. The main one is versatility: because it can be installed in any car, regardless of the year of manufacture. It's also easy to unbolt it and transfer it to another car when, for example, a child goes on a trip with grandparents. To perform its function well, it is necessary to proper routing of the belt. In the case of the 0-13 model, such as Cybex from our 3Kiwi store, the lap belt is put through the guides over the toddler's legs, and the shoulder belt is strapped to the shell of the carrier. In seats for older children (15-36), the child is strapped in like an adult, making sure that they run according to the manufacturer's recommendations. On the other hand, when you have a 9-18 model or rWF car seat, you need carefully read the accompanying instructions. The latter is often installed not only with the help of car belts, but also additional anchor straps that attach to the front seats.

The ISOFIX system works well when parents have more than one car at their disposal

Anyone who has at least once mounted a car seat on an ISOFIX base certainly appreciates the affordability of such a solution. These models consist of two parts: a seat and a special base with solid hooks, which we clip into the hooks permanently located in the car. Then apply the seat until you hear the characteristic click. Some of the seats also have a sign indicating that they are correctly clipped in. This way we can be sure that the seat of our child is well fixed. All cars currently coming off the production line have ISOFIX as standard equipment. So we can safely go to the 3Kiwi store and choose a seat that uses this mechanism. If you travel with your child in different cars, for example, in the morning mom drives him to kindergarten, dad picks him up, and weekends the toddler spends with grandparents, ISOFIX is a great solution. Such a seat everyone will install in the right way, saving time and gaining confidence that the child is safe.