Infant car seats buying guide for UK parents
Short answer: A infant car seat is a rear-facing car seat for newborns, often clicking onto a pushchair. Choose one that fits your space and your baby's stage, and use it as the instructions say.
What is a infant car seat?
A rear-facing car seat for newborns, often clicking onto a pushchair. It is used from birth for car journeys.
How to choose
- Look for R129 (i-Size) or R44.04 approval and the E mark.
- Check the fit in your car and whether you need an ISOFIX base.
- Take your baby out when you arrive, as the NHS advises.
Safety standards
- Car seats: look for ECE R44.04 (or R44.03) or i-Size R129, shown by the 'E' mark label.
Common questions
- Which car seat standard should I look for?
- How many hours can a baby be in a car seat?
- What is i-Size?
- How do I choose a infant car seat?
- Do I need a infant car seat?
- How long can you use a infant car seat?
- When should I buy a infant car seat?
- Can I buy a second-hand infant car seat?
What the guidance says
- It is fine for a baby to fall asleep in a car seat while you travel, but take them out as soon as you arrive.
- Car seats: look for ECE R44.04 (or R44.03) or i-Size R129, shown by the 'E' mark label.
Shop at Baby Kingdom
- Radial i-Size Plus 360 Spin 40-150cm Car Seat
- Venus Prime Jogger Stroller & Rotating Group 0+/1/2 ISOFIX Car Seat
- Nimbus 180° Spin i-Size Car Seat
- Cirrus i-Size Car Seat
Check each product page for its exact dimensions, mattress size, age and weight limits and safety standards.
More advice
Is a stroller safe for a newborn?Pushchairs buying guide for UK parentsIs a double pushchair safe for a newborn?Is a carrycot right for you? Quick quizIs a carrycot right for you? Quick quizIs it safe for a baby to sleep in a sitting position?All prams, pushchairs and travel systems advice →
Sources
- NHS: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) (accessed 2026-10-21)
- The Lullaby Trust: Baby mattresses and bedding (accessed 2026-10-21)
General information only, not medical advice. Always follow your product's instructions. If you are worried about your baby, contact your GP, health visitor or 111. In an emergency, call 999.