The safety of a baby of any age is a priority for every parent. The accelerating pace of life makes us increasingly use cars. Transportation of children by car has become a necessity in almost every family. In such conditions, it is important to create comfortable conditions for the child's movement and, most importantly, to protect him in case of emergency situations on the road. Car seats are designed for a comfortable and safe stay of the baby in the vehicle. And the question of choosing this accessory is of great importance.
Dutch firm Maxi Cosi has managed to achieve the perfect balance between convenience, style and reliability. The products of this brand will not leave any parent indifferent. Let's consider the products of this brand in more detail.
Features: advantages and disadvantages
Back in 1984, the founder of the company, Sif van der Linden, drew attention to the fact that infant carriers do not sufficiently protect babies, as they are placed in the direction of travel. In this position, in the event of an emergency, the kids received significant injuries, despite the seat belts. Linden, on the other hand, calculated the change in the load on the chair if you turn it against the movement of the car, and came to the conclusion that the redistribution of the baby's weight, a different position of his head, would significantly reduce the likelihood of injury. Since then, car seats of categories "0/0 +" have been mandatory installed against the direction of travel. This invention laid the foundation for the successful development of the company.
Currently, Maxi Cosi is incorporated into the European trading group Dorel Netherlands, which covers the production and sale of children's products in various categories and includes several major brands such as Baby Relax, Quinny, Monbebe, Bebe Confort and some others.
A distinctive feature of Maxi Cosi child car seats is the strictest control at all levels of production. The company owns several test sites, where each model repeatedly passes all kinds of tests. Specialists are constantly developing new options for protecting the child in the event of an accident. Particular attention is paid to head protection and seat belts. All the nuances possible in an emergency are taken into account. Therefore, each seat fully complies with European safety requirements and is marked ECE R44 / 03.
In 2007, one Maxi Cosi car seat was awarded a five-star safety rating. And in 2014, the company developed the latest model of a child seat that meets the most modern safety standard and is marked I-Size (R129).
An indicator of the quality of the brand's products is that Maxi Cosi is currently the only brand that gives the buyer not only a mandatory 2-year warranty period, but also the opportunity to issue a lifetime warranty period.
To summarize all of the above, there are several main benefits to look out for when choosing a car seat for your child:
- Absolutely all products pass the strictest control and are checked using several crash tests. Therefore, each unit is marked with the European safety standard ECE R44 / 04. This confirms the quality and reliability of child car seats.
- All the latest developments are maximally present in each model, so the protective functions of the Maxi Cosi chair are always at their best. Choosing any model of this brand, parents can not doubt the safety of their baby.
- To reduce the load on the spinal column during long trips, Maxi Cosi has provided for changing the position of the backrest and fixing it in various positions.
- When developing the shape of the chairs, the anatomical features of the structure of the body of a child at different ages are taken into account. Therefore, with the correct selection of a car seat, which should take into account the weight and height of your child, you can be sure that the child will be comfortable and comfortable.
- Most models are equipped with nice accessories to make the trip even more enjoyable. For example, it can be a footrest, a sun awning, a comfortable cup holder, or a rounded bottom for rocking your baby outside the car.
- The fabrics used in the production pass, like the armchair, quality control, therefore, they are characterized by increased resistance to abrasion and fading. Good air permeability and low allergenicity are the main requirements for seat upholstery.
- The brand's products have repeatedly won prestigious awards and prizes, which confirms the reliability of child restraints and makes this brand stand out in the global market.
Against the background of all this variety of significant advantages, finding disadvantages is a rather difficult task. All consumer complaints are purely subjective. Someone thought the fabric was a brand, someone was dissatisfied with the dimensions, but almost all buyers agree that the chair performs the main function of protecting the child perfectly.
The only objective drawback is the rather high price. It ranges from 11,000 to 38,000 rubles, depending on the models, but with interest it pays off with all the other advantages.
Kinds
The range of Maxi Cosi car seats is wide enough and is presented by models for all ages. To choose the right chair, parents need to decide on the weight and height of their baby, since these are the indicators that are necessary to select the right model. Below you can get acquainted with the main groups of Dutch brand car seats.
Category "0+"
Such options are recommended for newborns of the first year of life with a weight of 0-13 kg, which roughly corresponds to the age from birth to 12 months. The very first chair of the baby should be as protected and comfortable as possible, since at this age it is difficult for a child to adapt and endure inconveniences, and the parents are extremely worried about their baby. Therefore, Maxi Cosi took into account all the wishes of consumers and launched comfortable models on the market, which:
- special handle for carrying the cradle, which easily changes its position;
- sufficiently low weight of the entire structure for increased mobility;
- soft insert for the smallest, taking into account the shape of the spine and giving the body a horizontal position;
- the models are easily installed on the corresponding wheelbase and can be easily converted into a stroller;
- the bottom of the cradle has a rounded shape, which makes it easy to rock the child on a flat surface;
- the ability to install the chair both in the back and in the front seat;
- the design has a built-in awning that protects the baby from the sun;
- only environmentally friendly, hypoallergenic and breathable materials are used.
All these qualities are very pleasing to buyers, especially mothers, since such a design and light weight makes carrying the baby very easy and fast, which allows you to move freely with him on the street or in the store. This group includes models such as the Pebble, CabrioFix, Citi, and Pebble Plus. The Citi infant car seat is especially popular with young parents because of its low weight.
Category "0 + / 1"
This category of chairs is intended for newborns, but already allows parents to slightly extend the time of using the device, since it is designed for a weight of 0-18 kg, which roughly corresponds to a child's age from 0 to 4 years.
A distinctive feature of these models is the ability to turn the chair to the desired position. Until the baby reaches a weight of 13 kg, the seat is installed with his back forward, and as soon as the weight has passed the 13 kg mark, the seat turns in the direction of the vehicle. The assortment of this category of chairs is represented by the models "Opal", "AxissFix" and "MiloFix".
But these models have significant differences, so when choosing, parents are advised to familiarize themselves with all the design features.
Category "1"
This group includes child car seats designed for children weighing 9-18 kg. That is, in such a chair, the baby can ride from 9 months to 3-4 years. A special system of protective bumpers and fastening seat belts makes the trip in such models quite safe. The models have a smoothly descending backrest, which allows the baby to take a comfortable reclining position if the baby falls asleep on the road.
The range of this group is represented by the models "Axiss", "Rubi", "Priori XP", "Tobi" and "2wayPearl". All models are characterized by low weight, and Axiss is also equipped with a swivel device that allows the structure to be turned 90 degrees to make it more convenient to seat the child in the car.
Category "2-3"
Models in this group are recommended for children whose weight varies between 15-36 kg. The height of children from 3 to 12 years old varies greatly, so the models of this group should be able to “adjust” to the size of the child, that is, change the width and height after their owner. The Maxi Cosi armchairs fully meet these requirements. This category is represented by several versatile, comfortable and functional models such as "FeroFix" and "Rodi AirProtect".
Here you can easily adjust the height and inclination of the backrest, the width of the side bolsters. Special attention should be paid to the seat belt fastening system, which reliably and firmly holds the child in the desired position.
Those who want to save money and buy a universal car seat of category 1-2-3 will have to experience disappointment, since Maxi Cosi has refused to produce such models.
The versatility of such structures is achieved by reducing the protective functions of this product, which, according to the company's specialists, is unacceptable, since it directly affects the safety of the child.
The lineup
The range of the brand is quite significant. Each model has its own advantages and disadvantages. Below we will consider the most popular models from different age groups, their features and characteristics.
"Maxi Cosi Pebble"
This model is designed for the smallest kids and belongs to the "0+" category. Suitable for babies from birth to one year old. The weight of the product is 4 kg, and the dimensions are 51 × 52 × 73 cm. The Pebble can be fastened either with a passenger seat belt or with the Isofix system. It is allowed to fix the seat in the car only against the direction of travel. The child is secured with three-point seat belts, and for a more horizontal position there is a special removable anatomical tab. The bottom of the cradle is rounded, which allows the model to be used as a rocking chair outside the car. In addition, special fasteners make it possible to fix the cradle on the basis of the stroller.
Among the pleasant accessories, we should mention the awning that protects the baby from the sun. And also the ability to adjust the seat belts without taking the baby out of the chair. All covers are removable and easy to wash.
This chair model was voted best by a large number of parents and received a prestigious award in 2015.
Of the shortcomings, one can only note the rather high cost for such a short period of operation, as well as not enough spacious place for the winter period. A child in a winter overalls is cramped here, especially if the winter period was about a year old.
Maxi Cosi CabrioFix
The model is designed for babies from 0 to 12 months with a weight of up to 13 kg. Belongs to the "0+" group. The overall dimensions are 51 × 52 × 73 cm, and the weight is 3.4 kg. The model is fastened either with a car seat belt, or installed on a 2WayFix or FamilyFix base. This model is installed only in the direction of the vehicle. Backrest adjustment and protective side bolsters make the model comfortable and safe. The child is fastened with a three-point harness.
Nice accessories include a sun hood and a small pocket for small items. The carrycot is equipped with a handle, which makes it easy to remove the child from the car without taking the child out of the seat. The carrycot is also installed on the stroller chassis. The seat depth is adjustable, and the anatomical insert helps the child to take a more comfortable position. Among the shortcomings, it can be noted that the handle is not very comfortable and not very good thermoregulation, which leads to overheating of the child in the summer.
"Maxi Cosi Citi"
Another car seat for babies up to 1 year old in the group "0+". It has a very low weight - only 2.8 kg, and a small size of 57 × 44 × 67 cm. The car seat is equipped with a built-in sun shade, three-point straps for fixing the baby. There is a pocket for small things, the handle is thrown in different positions. The cradle is installed against the movement of the car, and it can also be fixed on the wheelchair chassis. The ability to adjust the position of the chair, its tilt and depth is also present.
The soft liner for a more comfortable position of the child and the ability to transport it in the cabin made this model very popular. And the small size and lightness have contributed to the fact that the cradle is often purchased for small cars. But the surface is made of synthetic materials, so the back of the baby can sweat in warm weather.
"Maxi Cosi Milofix"
This model is intended for children from 0 to 4 years old and belongs to the "0 + / 1" group. The weight of the structure is already more impressive and amounts to 11.1 kg. The dimensions of the car seat are 65 × 43 × 47 cm. The fixation of the product in the car is carried out using the Isofix system and is complemented by a special TopTether anchor belt, which makes the fixation more reliable. This model can be installed in two positions: up to a year - with its back forward, and after a year - facing forward.
The baby is secured with five-point harnesses with anti-slip soft inserts for greater comfort. For newborns, there is an anatomical insert to give a horizontal position. And for the convenience of grown-up children, there is an adjustable backrest. Naturally, protection against frontal impacts and head protection are maintained at the proper level. All covers are removable and easy to wash in the washing machine. The disadvantage is that, despite the special insert, the baby still cannot be given a horizontal position. In addition, the chair is hot and the child can sweat in it in summer. Also, installation in a car takes a lot of time and is not simple and easy.
"Maxi Cosi Tobi"
This model is considered one of the most convenient, practical and reliable among the entire range of the company. All tests that this chair passed were passed perfectly, which once again confirmed its safety for a little traveler.
The model belongs to group 1 from 9 to 18 kg, and from about 9 months to 3.5 years. The weight of the chair is 8.9 kg, and the dimensions are 75 × 45 × 55 cm. The chair is quite high, which allows the child to look out the window unhindered during the trip. For this feature, she fell in love with both adults and children.
Fastening in the car is done with a regular seat belt in the direction of traffic. And there is a special seat belt tightening device. The child himself is additionally secured with five-point seat belts. All of them are equipped with soft non-slip inserts. Excellent sidewall and head protection. In addition to adjusting the backrest tilt, there is also an adjustment of the headrest position. You can choose from seven positions.
It is also convenient to take out and put the baby in this chair thanks to the spring system of fastening the belts. The covers are removable and easy to clean. In addition, the fabric is excellent for air permeability, because of this, the baby does not sweat even in the heat.
All these advantages are reflected in the price, which is quite high.In addition, despite the five positions of the back, it is impossible to give it a horizontal position, so the child will have to sleep in a half-sitting position.
"Maxi Cosi 2way Pearl"
This model differs from the rest in that it was created taking into account the latest I-Size safety requirements and standards. This chair requires the special 2WayFix base, which must be purchased separately. The unusual thing about such a fastening is that the child can be fastened in the car against the course of the car, not only up to a year, but also up to the age of four. This position is safer for the child in the event of an accident. But also facing forward, installation is also possible, but only after 15 months.
The weight of the model is 7.2 kg, and the dimensions of the seat are 68 × 47 × 67 cm. Otherwise, the restraint device is very similar to its predecessors. Five-point seat belts, soft insert for babies, backrest and headrest adjustment - all this makes the chair comfortable and convenient for children. And only the fact that a special base needs to be purchased separately sometimes keeps buyers from purchasing this model.
"Maxi Cosi Priori"
Another model of group "1", designed for children from 9 to 18 kg. This is one of the simplest models, not cluttered with additional functions. However, simplicity does not in any way affect reliability, which attracts buyers.
Basic functions such as backrest adjustment, five-point seat belts, removable covers, side protection, one-handed belt adjustment are present in this car seat. Installation is carried out only facing forward and only with a car seat belt. But many see this as only a plus, since this fact allows you to use the seat in absolutely any car. Of the shortcomings, buyers note only the low quality of the upholstery material, which is why the child sweats a lot in the summer.
Maxi Cosi RodiFix
This car seat already represents the "2-3" group and is designed for children from 3 to 12 years old. The recommended user weight should be between 15-36 kg. The chair is very comfortable and ergonomic, which is important for children of any age. This chair is able to "grow up" together with its owner, since you can change the size of the backrest, headrest and move the sidewalls. A distinctive feature is the special inserts in the headrest made of elastic gel, which smooths out the load during head impact and ensures a comfortable position in all conditions.
The seat has the ability to attach both the Isofix system and an ordinary car seat belt. This model is an excellent choice for a growing child and allows you to install yourself in any car.
Accessories
The Maxi Cosi company, in addition to producing car seats, has taken care of additional pleasant accessories that are designed to make the use of the seats more convenient. And some of them significantly expand the range of possibilities for using a car seat.
A special sleeve has been created for the little ones, which ideally fits the Pebble and Pebble Plus carrycots. The cover is insulated and there are special holes in the back for the passage of the retaining straps. Therefore, you can put your baby right at home, fasten him in a chair, and then just take him outside and put him in the car. The envelope is convenient because the child does not need to be thrust into it, it is enough just to unfasten the buttons in front, and after fastening to fasten. The envelopes are made in a variety of colors to match the color of your carrycot. You can use this accessory both in the stroller and separately. The interior materials are very pleasant to the touch and 100% natural.
The mosquito net is indispensable for the summer period, as it reliably protects the child from various insects. This is especially true if you often walk with your baby in the park and forest, where meeting mosquitoes is simply inevitable. This mesh is compatible with the Pebble Plus, Cabtiofix, Pebble and Citi car seat models. For the convenience of carrying the cradle, there is a special slot in the net.
For rainy or windy weather, manufacturers have developed a special raincoat that is designed for Pebble Plus, Cabtiofix, Pebble and Citi car seats. The raincoat is convenient to use, as it fits snugly around the chair, does not interfere with the passage of light, and there are special breathable inserts on the sides of the accessory for air circulation. Such an accessory will reliably protect your child from adverse environmental conditions.
For all types of Maxi Cosi car seats, special summer covers have been developed, which are recommended to be used in the hot season. All covers are made of non-marking, practical fabric that can be easily cleaned and washed. They are made of breathable material that improves air flow and prevents your baby from sweating. The covers are also convenient in that to fix them, you do not need to remove the chair and take out the seat belts, you just need to put it on top. Their design is such that the cover will sit like a glove, will not wrinkle and slip.
Separately, it should be said about the attachment of car seats to the stroller chassis. This function is very convenient, as it allows you not to carry a bulky stroller with you, but to take only a chassis with wheels into the car, and then, using a special adapter, install the car seat on it. And that's it, the stroller is ready. Adapters for strollers for Maxi Cosi products are available in two versions: for one child the “Mono” series, for two children - “Duo” (as a result, you can install 2 car seats for children on one wheelbase).
An adapter is not always required to install the cradle. Various European stroller manufacturers have long taken into account the versatility of their models and have developed chassis such that various infant carriers can be installed on them.
For example, the Maxi Cosi Pebble 0-0 + carrycots are compatible with Teutonia wheelbases (except for Team Cosmo and Elegance), Joolz Day and. The CabrioFix chair can be mounted on Stokke Xplory, Hartan, Scoot and Quinny bases. And the Citi holding device is suitable for Bugaboo, Quinny, Valco Baby.
The Maxi Cosi carrycots can also be combined with some of the Casualplay, Camarelo, Bumbleride and Maxi Cosi wheelbases.
Installation and operating instructions
By purchasing Maxi Cosi car seats, each customer receives a complete package of documents with accurate and detailed information on the installation of this model. The instruction is compiled in several languages, including Russian, so there are no problems with understanding. Each action is very clearly illustrated.
Manufacturers have made sure that each buyer can carefully understand the nuances of each model, it is easy to remove and install the car seat in his car. Indeed, not only the comfort of the baby, but also his life and health depends on the correct installation and use of the chair.
Basic tips for installing and operating all seats:
- The chair is installed only as indicated in the instructions. There are models that are mounted only facing forward, or only backwards. Some can be fixed in any position depending on the weight and age of your child. Breaking these rules is strictly prohibited.
- It is recommended to install the device in the back seat of the vehicle as it is safer. But if it becomes necessary to put the seat forward, then it is imperative to disable the front airbag to prevent possible injury.
- It is forbidden to re-use the chair if an accident occurs, as there may be damage to the chair structure, due to which its holding and protective properties may be violated.
- When boarding a child, the size of the seat belts must be adjusted each time. The child changes clothes, so the belts may not fit. Too tight or loose fit is fraught with injury to the baby on the road. When the seat belt is correctly tightened, there should not be more than one finger between it and the child's body.
- Attaching the anchor strap provides additional fixation of the seat in the car. Therefore, when using a chair with this design, it is important to monitor the indicator readings. With proper tension, a green light should come on. The length of the anchor strap should be as short as possible from the seat to the attachment point, so it is better to remove the head restraints in the car in the place where the seat will be installed.
- When fixing with the IsoFix system, it is also necessary to observe the indications of the indicator light. Green indicates that the system is fully latched.
- Care must be taken that the headrest of the seat fully protects the child's head from all sides. If the head does not fit in the headrest or extends at least from one side outside, then it is necessary to change the seat to the next age category.
- It is not recommended to transfer the child too early to a seat of a higher age category. The younger the baby, the better the seat protects it. Therefore, transfer the child to a new model only when the child's weight reaches the upper weight limit or the height becomes such that the head is no longer protected by the headrest and begins to go beyond it.
Crush test
Crash tests of Maxi Cosi seats are carried out in specially designed rooms, where all possible accident scenarios are created. Special mannequins are placed in the chairs, the weight and height of which are similar to those for children. All tests are supervised by the German security company ADAC. The result depends on the ratio of ergonomics indicators, the ability to withstand a frontal and frontal impact and the environmental friendliness of the device, ease of use is also taken into account.
According to the results of all passed tests, car seats of the brand confidently receive 4 stars out of 5, which corresponds to the rating "good". In the category of car seats of groups "0-0 +", the models "Maxi Cosi CabrioFix" and "Pebble" took the honorable 1st and 3rd places, respectively.
In each category of seats among the leaders in crash tests, there are models from the Dutch manufacturer. There are practically no negative reviews after purchasing Maxi Cosi products. Customers are satisfied with the quality and reliability of the restraints.
In the next video, see a detailed review of the 0+ Maxi Cosi Pebble car seat.
