The UK’s Baby Products Association advises that the sales of R44 car seats (also referred to as child restraints) must cease in the UK and the European Union from 1st September 2023.
This means that they can no longer be offered for sale, either online or in stores. R44 means Regulation No 44 of the Economic Commission for Europe of the United Nations (UN/ECE).
Any R44 car seats owned beyond this date can continue to be used and are still considered to be safe. The Regulations have been updated to reflect new technology and the latest Regulation is R129.
Your questions answered:
Who has ruled?
The European Union
Does this apply in the UK following Brexit?
This applies in the European Union countries and the UK (pre-Brexit deal)
What is the end date for use?
No end date for use has been announced
Is this for all age groups?
Yes, any age group covered by an R44 car seat
Can R44 restraints still be used after this date?
Yes
Is there a future date when they can no longer be used?
No
How do I identify an R44 restraint?
R44 restraints can be identified by a label that is typically orange or has an orange panel displaying ECE R44.04 or ECE R44.03 at the top. It is also given in the user manual.
How I identify an R129 restraint?
R129 restraints can be identified by a label that is typically orange or has an orange panel displaying R129 at the top. It is also given in the user manual.
Does this mean R44 seats are no longer safe?
No, R44 seats are still safe to use
Does this apply to second-hand car seats?
We do not encourage the purchase of second-hand car seats.
