Expert Q&A with Simone Budel

Simone, a trainer and assessor with over 18 years of car seat safety experience, is Baby Bunting’s National Vehicle Safety and Services Manager. A mother of four and New Zealander of the Year Local Hero Award recipient, she is dedicated to ensuring the safety of her own and others’ children on the road and provides year-round car safety support and expertise in our stores.

What are the key features parents should look for when choosing a car seat for their child?

The most important factors are the child's suitability (age, size, weight, development), compatibility with the vehicle, the customer’s budget, and correct installation to ensure safety on every trip. Keep in mind that more affordable car seats can perform just as well as pricier ones; the mentioned important factors are the key.

What are some tips for using car seats correctly?

All car seats sold in New Zealand meet safety standards, but unfortunately, around 80% or more are incorrectly installed or used after purchase. Ensuring the harness fits correctly on the child is crucial, as this is where errors often occur. I recommend reading the manual carefully, avoiding bulky coats or sweaters, and not turning your car seat forward-facing too early. We suggest visiting a child restraint technician for support and education and having your car seat professionally installed whenever possible.

What factors determine when a car seat is no longer safe to use?

Car seats typically expire 6 to 10 years after their manufacture date, as frequent use and exposure to sunlight can damage and weaken the plastic. Safety regulations and instructions may also have changed. It's important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and ensure the child hasn't outgrown the seat's height and weight limits. For optimal safety, use a rear-facing seat for children from birth to at least 2 years old, or older if the seat allows.