One of the biggest surprises of the test was that many popular high street retailers failed to meet basic safety standards. The mystery shoppers found that many stores were selling car seats that were either untested or unsuitable for the weight or size of the child. This included seats that were too small for any child, seats that failed to provide enough protection in the event of an accident, and seats that had been improperly installed by retailers.
Interestingly, some of the biggest high street names fared the worst in the test. Stores known for their selection of baby and children's products, such as Mothercare and Argos, were among the worst-performing retailers in the test. The findings suggest that, despite their popularity, these shops aren't always the best choice when it comes to buying car seats.
However, it wasn't all bad news for high street retailers. The mystery shoppers did find that some stores, such as John Lewis and Kiddicare, were selling excellent quality car seats that were suitable for a range of ages and sizes, and which offered excellent protection in the event of an accident. These stores were praised for their knowledgeable staff and the high standards they set for car seat safety.
For parents who are looking for a car seat that offers maximum safety, it's worth considering some of the specialist retailers that were included in the Which? test. These included online providers such as Baby & Co and Baby and Child Store, which were among the top performing retailers in the test. These stores stock a range of car seats from well-known brands and can provide expert advice on installation and use.
However, no matter where you choose to buy your car seat, it's important to remember that these products are only effective if they are installed and used correctly. It's recommended that parents undertake thorough research before making a purchase, and that they seek expert advice on installation and adjustment of the car seat to ensure that their child is as safe as possible.
In addition to a good quality car seat, parents can also invest in a baby car mirror. This mirror allows you to keep an eye on your child while driving, which can be especially useful if you are travelling alone with your child. You can easily see if your child has fallen asleep, needs attention or is in any kind of distress. Baby car mirrors come in a range of styles and sizes, so it's worth considering which one best meets your needs before making a purchase.
Ultimately, the Which? test highlights the importance of choosing a good quality car seat from a trusted retailer. By doing your research, seeking advice, and ensuring that your car seat is installed and used correctly, you can help to ensure that your child is as safe as possible while travelling in a car.