Baby's Hyperstore

How do independent crash testing institutes ADAC, TCS and OAMTC work?

GH — Sun, 26 Feb 2023 13:03:20 +0000

How do independent crash testing institutes ADAC, TCS and OAMTC work?

You may have seen some test labels next to Swandoo products. Here is the story behind them, and why you should look out for them…

Every year, in May and October, the leading independent organisations, ADAC (“Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club eV”, the largest automobile federation clubs of Germany and Europe), TCS (Touring Club Switzerland), and ÖAMTC publish their crash test results on a selection of new car seats sold in the European market.

These tests are carried out taking into account 4 main criteria which make it possible to obtain a final overall score, and give you an indicator of how safe your car seat is:

1° SAFETY:

The car seats are installed in a car shell tested for frontal impacts at 64 km/h and side impacts at 50 km/h. These front and side impacts are tested with dummies in different size categories relevant to the car seats being tested. In addition to the crash scenarios, belt routing and stability on the vehicle seat are evaluated.

2 ° HANDLING:

Handling is made up of subcategories mainly relating to the installation of seats. These include handling, misuse, restraining, seat installation and seat modification. All of which are evaluated by experts and independent users.

The installation tests are carried out with mannequins and real children in various types of vehicle.

3 ° ERGONOMICS:

Internal dimensions, Space in the vehicle, Seating position and Comfort for the child provide the subcategories in the area of ergonomics. In terms of considering comfort, experts also looks at the position of the legs, overall posture, the field of vision of the child, and the quality of the protective foams.

4 ° ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS:

Harmful substances are also considered. This is a criterion based on the presence and the number of types of substances dangerous for humans and for the environment such as phthalates, flame retardants, aromatic hydrocarbons, etc. The analysis takes into consideration the composition of the fabric cover and will impact the overall score if a chemical is present over a certain limit.

THE RESULTS?

When publishing results, ADAC and TCS publish the final marks according to these 4 criteria with a singular notation reading. For example, ADAC shows a rating of 0.6 to 5.5 (the lower the score, the better it is). The TCS awards 5 stars for “Excellent” or 4 stars for “Very Recommended” etc. …

For an independent view on how Swandoo car seats do in the tests:

Albert i-size: ADAC score 1.6, TCS 4 stars (Double test winner and best results of 2019)

Marie 3: ADAC score 2.4, TCS 4 stars (Best in category for 2021)

The post How do independent crash testing institutes ADAC, TCS and OAMTC work? first appeared on Baby's Hyperstore.

The post How do independent crash testing institutes ADAC, TCS and OAMTC work? appeared first on Baby's Hyperstore.

Are Drop-side Cots Better or Safer?

Jolene Er — Wed, 18 May 2022 04:33:24 +0000

Are Drop-side Cots Better or Safer?

A drop-side crib is built in a way that one side slides up and down, allowing parents to access their baby without reaching so far over the side. Some parents have come to us seeking for drop side cots for the convenience of picking up their baby during feeding time.

But are they safe?

There have been many debates about the safety of drop side cot, some are hard up against the usage of drop side cots, while others swears by it. Ironically, from 2011 the U.S. Consumer Protection Safety Commission (CPSC) has banned the production and sale of drop-side cribs.

Why is this so?

Within the course of 9 years, there were 32 infant deaths (and many more close-call incidents), and they were all involving a malfunction in drop-side cots. The same mechanisms that allow for the drop-side functionality also create a gap between the mattress and the side of the cot. As a result, babies have become trapped and suffocated or got strangled. After further analysis, there is also another possible risk which accompanies the usage of drop-side cot.

We all know parenting can be tiring, and when one is tired, we may tend to forget stuff such as pulling back up the drop side after letting it down. With a shortened side rail height, the babies can climb out of their cots more easily, especially when unsupervised by parents which can lead to serious injuries or death.

Although such cots are banned in USA, drop-side cots are still available in Singapore as the country doesn’t have strict regulations on cots’ safety. It is also up to parents to make informed decisions for their babies.

At Baby’s Hyperstore, we believe in delivering products following stricter safety standards to provide parents with peace of mind. While drop-side cots may provide you with the slight convenience to reach your baby easier only at the starting few months, the non-drop-side cots can offer more height adjustments and some are even able to convert for other usage so as not to waste the cot after the baby has outgrown it.

Check out the Beblum Lavo 5 which has 9 adjustable heights, and the Beblum Sam Crib which is an ultimate transformer. Both are convertible to a playpen, table, sofa, and etc., once your little one grows out of sleeping in the cot!

The post Are Drop-side Cots Better or Safer? first appeared on Baby's Hyperstore.

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Basic Guide to Cot Shopping

Jolene Er — Fri, 06 May 2022 08:45:05 +0000

Basic Guide to Cot Shopping

Planning for you baby’s snooze cot can be exciting, especially when they will be spending lots of time sleeping in their first few years. Parents often search for cots that are aesthetically pleasing, high-quality, functional, and most importantly it keeps their baby safe. However, it’s not as easy as popping by a mall and picking one up. Selecting the right cot requires some research to know if it will suit you and your baby’s needs in the long term.

Let’s take a look at the key points to be considered when choosing the perfect cot for you baby.

Traditional Cot. Usually made of solid wood and rectangular in shape. While such cots are durable, they may not come with extra features to convert into other configurations while your child grows up.

Convertible Cot. Popular choice among new age parents. The convertible cots are extra versatile and can last up till approximately 4-5 years of the child’s age. They are ideal for accompanying your growing baby from infant to toddler as they convert from a baby cot to a toddler bed.

A classic favourite among parents is the Beblum Lavo 5 Baby Cot. It transforms from a baby cot to a co-sleeper / playpen / table / sofa chair and more. It is a wise investment for parents as they are incredibly versatile and can last your child beyond 5 years of age.

Bassinet or Co-sleeping Cot. Usually meant to fit by your bedside for parents to monitor their child conveniently. They are generally smaller in size which take up less space and allow you to move the cot around the house easily. However, due to its compact size, such cots can’t be used for long as your child will outgrow them within 6-9 months. Once your baby learns to flip over by themselves, it is advisable to stop using it.

Below are some factors which worth some considerations as well to make your baby’s first bed a safe haven.

Size Matters

In a small country like Singapore where most families stay in housing flats can pose some form of space constraints, hence choosing the right size baby cot matters! Before shopping for a cot, it is advisable to plan out the space for the in your home and the measurements of the available space.

The two most common cot sizes are the American-standard cot size (130 x 70cm), and the European cot size (120 x 60cm).

Mattress

A good mattress is important as a baby sleeps a total of 16 hours or more a day. A breathable firmer mattress is recommended as a soft mattress does pose a SIDS or breathability risk!

Tip: Always remember to measure the internal dimensions of a baby cot before purchasing the mattress and fitted sheet. A perfect fits means that the mattress fits snugly against the rails and bed ends so there are no gaps.

Non-toxic paint

High quality and non-toxic materials are amongst the most important factors when considering a baby cot. To ensure a safe environment for your baby to rest in, it is advisable to get a baby cot that uses non-toxic or water-based paint.

Good examples to reference would be the Beblum Lavo 5 Baby Cot and Beblum Sam Crib which use eco-friendly non-toxic water based paint.

Adjustable Heights

Lifting a baby in and out of the cot several times a day can put some serious pressure on your back. A height-adjustable base can ease your load in the early months when you are still recovering from your pregnancy.

You can start with the base quite high for babies and then lower the base when they start to become more mobile so as to prevent them from climbing out of the cot which can lead to unfortunate accidents.

The post Basic Guide to Cot Shopping first appeared on Baby's Hyperstore.

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Guide To The Stroller World

Jolene Er — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 07:19:49 +0000

Guide to choosing the right stroller

You’re ready to bring your little one to see the world, all you need is a trusty stroller.

Shopping for a suitable stroller could possibly be one of the most challenging tasks you’ll likely go through when building your baby registry. From strolling in parks to family vacations, the stroller is going to be one of the most frequently used baby gears you will be having.

It can be hard to expect what type of stroller you may need especially with all the different types and brands of strollers available in the market.

This guide will briefly cover the major types of strollers and some important tips to keep in mind when shopping for one.

Let’s stroll.

What to consider when choosing a stroller?

Getting the right stroller depends on a few different factors and can be overwhelming when you take into account families and friends’ advice too. But what works for one family may not be the right fit for another. Here are some pointers you may consider.

Budget Range – It is natural for parents to want to provide the best they can for their children. But sometimes first-time parents are often shocked by how much strollers cost. Generally, the pricier strollers will often have more features and sometimes, better fabric. But don’t stress out too much over budget—while higher-end strollers may cost much more, it’s also very possible to get a stroller that fits your needs without burning your wallet.

Lifestyle – Every family have their own schedule, preference and hobbies. Would you bring your little one in a stroller for short walks, shopping trips and vacations? How much space do you have in your car boot? Do you plan to jog together with your young children? Your stroller needs to fit your lifestyle too, so do give these questions some thoughts before deciding what’s right for you.

Types of Strollers

Regular Strollers

An all-purpose stroller which is ideal for everything from a relaxing stroll in the park to a family trip to the zoo. These solid strollers typically provides a smooth ride but most all-purpose strollers lean on the heavier and larger side.

Cabin-sized Strollers

This is the All-time Favourite for the new age parents and a lifesaver for those who love to travel.

These lightweight and compact strollers fold small enough to be allowed to carry up the plane as a hand luggage. This means they can easily fit in car boots or to tuck away in the storage room.

Twin Strollers

If you have twins or kids born close together, a double stroller can be a great help. These strollers can fit two children and are usually seated side-by-side or front-and-back.

There are also single strollers available which are convertible into a twin stroller by adding another seat for a second child.

Joggers

If you love to bring along your child for your runs or treks, these strollers could be perfect for you. Jogging strollers are usually three-wheeled and comes with enhanced suspension-system which are great for bumpy, uneven terrain. They also have features such as a hand-brake to stop or slow the stroller on the downhill and extra-large canopies to protect your little one from the sun when exercising outdoors.

Extra But Very Important Tip: Weight of the stroller is an important point to consider but do not put too much focus on it. More often than not, parents think that they will carry the folded stroller when their children are not sitting in it, therefore the weight of the stroller plays a major role. But the truth is that most parents will push their empty strollers and/or use it as a shopping trolley than to carry it because it is much easier.

The only few times the stroller is folded is when you need to load and unload from a car or keep in the storage at home. Public transport are stroller and wheelchair friendly nowadays and it is not necessary to fold the stroller when boarding the bus or train.

The post Guide To The Stroller World first appeared on Baby's Hyperstore.

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What is i-Size car seat?

Jolene Er — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 07:55:34 +0000

What are i-Size car seats?

You’re excited to bring your new travel buddy for his/her first road trip, but of course, safety is priority. You’ve got your cup of coffee, cracked your knuckles and scoured the world of Google for the best safety standard car seat.

After 2 grueling hours, you’re on the floor with a headache while chanting your new mantra – i-Size, ECE R129, ECE R44/04.

There’s no need to be shy, we’ve all been there (well, most of us).

We’re not the new age Marvel heroes, but we can save you from that headache by breaking it down for you in simple terms.

First thing to note when getting a car seat, it has to meet the ECE R129 or ECE R44/04 safety standards. Else you’re breaking the law and worse, putting your child at risk while on the road.

What is i-Size?

i-Size (a.k.a. ECE R129) is a new European car seat safety regulation that was introduced in 2013. It aims to provide better protection, allow children to rearward face for a longer period and a more secured fit for car seats.

Benefits of i-Size

i-Size car seats are fitted using ISOFIX thus reducing the risk of fitting your child car seat incorrectly. Generally, ISOFIX installation are simpler to fit compared to using the vehicle’s seat belt. ISOFIX has also been found to significantly reduce the potential of injury when installed correctly.

This new regulation also introduces a side-impact crash test as part of the testing process. Child car seats approved under the older ECE R44 regulation do not require a side-impact crash test approval in order to be sold.

Not only it is the most updated safety standard, it also allows your child to rearward face to at least 15 months. Rear facing protects developing little necks and spines up to 5 times more than forward facing in an event of a crash.

So what’s the difference between iSize and ECE R44/04?

The selection of car seats under the older ECE R44 standard is based on the weight of your child. For i-Size, it is height-based.

This is because usually parents are more aware of their children’s height than their weight. i-Size makes it easier for you to get the right car seat for your child.

Here’s a nifty comparison table to help you to digest the information better:

ECE R44/04	i-Size
Older regulation (1980s)	Most updated safety standard (2013)
Based on child’s weight	Based on child’s height
Child can be forward facing from 9kg	Child must rear face for a minimum of 15 months
Installation via vehicle’s seat belt or ISOFIX	Installation only via ISOFIX
Rear and Front impact testing	Rear, Front and Side impact testing
P dummy used in crash tests (4 sensors)	Q dummy used in crash tests (32 sensors)

As you can see, i-Size is a safer option for your little travel buddy while on the road.

Check out Beblum Nado O6 i-Size car seat which is packed with well thought features such as full mesh seats, extra built in air vents, and a great spinal support infant cushion.

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