June 23, 2026

Rotating car seats – should you choose one?

in Post

Getting a wriggly toddler into a car seat shouldn’t feel like a workout. That’s why rotating car seats are quickly becoming a go-to for modern parents.

In this blog, we explore how they work and why so many families are making the switch. From extended rear and front facing options to reducing back strain, we’ll help you decide whether a rotating car seat is the right choice for your growing family.

Benefits of a Rotating Car Seat

Easier access in and out of the car - The swivel function turns the seat towards the door, making it easier to get your child in and out of the car without awkward angles. With the seat facing you, it is easier to correctly position and tighten the harness, helping ensure your child is safely secured every time.
Reduced strain on your back - Rotating the seat towards you helps minimise bending, twisting, and reaching, which can help prevent back and shoulder strain, especially with growing toddlers. This also helps parents (or grandparents) recovering from birth, injury, or surgery, or those with limited mobility, who often find rotating seats easier and more comfortable to use.
Rear and front facing options - While your child is young, rear facing car seats are recommended for their safety. Though you want to keep them rear facing as long as possible (according to weight and height restrictions), you will eventually need to switch to forward facing, which is made incredibly easy with the swivel feature. You also have multiple angle options to recline the seat and can change all of these settings without having to re-install the entire seat.

Things to Consider Before Buying

Weight limits - Most (though not all) rotating car seats have a weight limit of 18kgs because of the isofix installation. On average, that’s around four years old, and while many parents are happy to switch to a booster seat after that, others just want one seat that goes all the way.
If you’d prefer to buy a single seat with more longevity, a non-rotating option may suit you better. The Nuna Rava Next goes up to 29.4kgs (seven or eight years on average), and the Exec Next has a booster seat conversion, meaning that it lasts right from newborn up to 49.9kgs, around 12 years old!
Space in your car - If you have multiple kids and multiple car seats in the car, having one that rotates might be a bit tricky. Rotating seats generally have a larger base, and the swivel motion itself can be blocked if there are other seats in the way. If you plan on having three seats side by side in the back row, swivelling is a no-go. If you have two seats, then a rotating seat might be a good option depending on how it fits into your car. If you’re not sure, give us a call at our Newmarket or Christchurch stores, and book in a time to try out some options and see what works best.

What Are the Rotating Car Seat Options?

Nuna NEXT System

Built to work together seamlessly, the Nuna NEXT System offers flexibility, longevity, and peace of mind in one refined package. With two different base options (Base Next & Base Curv), two capsules (Pipa Next & Arra Flex), a unique lie-flat car seat (Cari Next), and a toddler seat for good measure (Todl Next), the NEXT System gives you a range of options for travelling in style. The bases come equipped with True Lock™ technology and coloured installation guides for your peace of mind, and one base can be used for all compatible products (keeping you covered for the first four years of baby’s life).

Maxi Cosi Pebble 360 Pro Capsule & Maxi-Cosi Pearl 360

As part of the 360 Pro Family range, the Pebble and Pearl (when on the Family Fix 360 Pro Base) not only rotate 360°, but also slide towards you to eliminate the awkward reaching that usually comes with buckling in a little one. While the Pearl must be attached to the base in order to go in the car, the Pebble can also be seatbelt installed by itself.

Nuna Pruu

If you love the Todl but don’t want to bother with the separate base, the Pruu might be the seat for you. With the same detachable Side Impact Protection, integrated rebound bar, and smart-swivel lock, your little one will be travelling in stylish safety from start to finish. The big difference? The Pruu is one piece, with no separate base, making it a bit heavier to carry around, but super convenient for those who’d rather not bother with the extra pieces.

We also have the new Nuna Pruu Aire with a retractable sun canopy.

Nuna Rylo

A new and popular choice is the Nuna Rylo. This seat has it all: 360° rotation, seat belt installation capability, and premium materials. Certified to the AS/NZS standard, it’s perfect for Trans-Tasman travellers, or anyone who’s after the latest version of Nuna’s award winning technology.

Not sure which seat is right for you? Visit us in Auckland or Christchurch to see them in person. You can also book in a fitting with our team - we’ll help you find the safest, easiest option for your car and your family.

June 23, 2026

Rotating car seats – should you choose one?

Getting a wriggly toddler into a car seat shouldn’t feel like a workout. That’s why rotating car seats are quickly becoming a go-to for modern parents. In this blog, we explore how they work and why so many families are making the switch. From extended rear and front facing options to reducing back strain, we’ll help you decide whether a rotating car seat is the right choice for your growing family. Benefits of a Rotating Car Seat Easier access in and out of the car - The swivel function turns the seat towards the door, making it easier to get your child in and out of the car without awkward angles. With the seat facing you, it is easier to correctly position and tighten the harness, helping ensure your child is safely secured every time. Reduced strain on your back - Rotating the seat towards you helps minimise bending, twisting, and reaching, which can help prevent back and shoulder strain, especially with growing toddlers. This also helps parents (or grandparents) recovering from birth, injury, or surgery, or those with limited mobility, who often find rotating seats easier and more comfortable to use. Rear and front facing options - While your child is young, rear facing car seats are recommended for their safety. Though you want to keep them rear facing as long as possible (according to weight and height restrictions), you will eventually need to switch to forward facing, which is made incredibly easy with the swivel feature. You also have multiple angle options to recline the seat and can change all of these settings without having to re-install the entire seat. Things to Consider Before Buying Weight limits - Most (though not all) rotating car seats have a weight limit of 18kgs because of the isofix installation. On average, that’s around four years old, and while many parents are happy to switch to a booster seat after that, others just want one seat that goes all the way. If you’d prefer to buy a single seat with more longevity, a non-rotating option may suit you better. The Nuna Rava Next goes up to 29.4kgs (seven or eight years on average), and the Exec Next has a booster seat conversion, meaning that it lasts right from newborn up to 49.9kgs, around 12 years old! Space in your car - If you have multiple kids and multiple car seats in the car, having one that rotates might be a bit tricky. Rotating seats generally have a larger base, and the swivel motion itself can be blocked if there are other seats in the way. If you plan on having three seats side by side in the back row, swivelling is a no-go. If you have two seats, then a rotating seat might be a good option depending on how it fits into your car. If you’re not sure, give us a call at our Newmarket or Christchurch stores, and book in a time to try out some options and see what works best. What Are the Rotating Car Seat Options? Nuna NEXT System Built to work together seamlessly, the Nuna NEXT System offers flexibility, longevity, and peace of mind in one refined package. With two different base options (Base Next & Base Curv), two capsules (Pipa Next & Arra Flex), a unique lie-flat car seat (Cari Next), and a toddler seat for good measure (Todl Next), the NEXT System gives you a range of options for travelling in style. The bases come equipped with True Lock™ technology and coloured installation guides for your peace of mind, and one base can be used for all compatible products (keeping you covered for the first four years of baby’s life). Maxi Cosi Pebble 360 Pro Capsule & Maxi-Cosi Pearl 360 As part of the 360 Pro Family range, the Pebble and Pearl (when on the Family Fix 360 Pro Base) not only rotate 360°, but also slide towards you to eliminate the awkward reaching that usually comes with buckling in a little one. While the Pearl must be attached to the base in order to go in the car, the Pebble can also be seatbelt installed by itself. Nuna Pruu If you love the Todl but don’t want to bother with the separate base, the Pruu might be the seat for you. With the same detachable Side Impact Protection, integrated rebound bar, and smart-swivel lock, your little one will be travelling in stylish safety from start to finish. The big difference? The Pruu is one piece, with no separate base, making it a bit heavier to carry around, but super convenient for those who’d rather not bother with the extra pieces. We also have the new Nuna Pruu Aire with a retractable sun canopy. Nuna Rylo A new and popular choice is the Nuna Rylo. This seat has it all: 360° rotation, seat belt installation capability, and premium materials. Certified to the AS/NZS standard, it’s perfect for Trans-Tasman travellers, or anyone who’s after the latest version of Nuna’s award winning technology. Not sure which seat is right for you? Visit us in Auckland or Christchurch to see them in person. You can also book in a fitting with our team - we’ll help you find the safest, easiest option for your car and your family.

Learn more

July 3, 2025

How to Choose a Car Seat

How to Choose the Right Car Seat – When You're Spoiled for Choice Choosing a car seat can feel overwhelming – especially when your baby’s safety, comfort, and your lifestyle are all at stake. With capsules, convertibles, boosters and everything in between, how do you know where to start? Here's a practical breakdown to help you compare the different types of car seats and figure out what’s right for your whānau. Capsule Car Seats Best for: Newborns to approx. 12 months (up to 13kg depending on the brand)What they are: Rear-facing, portable infant car seats that click in and out of your vehicle. Why parents love them: Can transfer a sleeping baby from car to stroller without waking them. Easy to carry with a handle. Most work with a base that stays in the car – simple click-and-go. Things to consider: You’ll likely only use it for the first year. Weight matters – some are much easier to carry than others. Great options to compare: Nuna Pipa Next – lightweight (only 2.8kg) and super portable. Nuna Arra Flex – features three recline positions - including a near-flat 157° recline on the stroller or when used as a carry seat. Cybex Cloud T – lies near-flat outside the car, great for stroller naps. Maxi Cosi Pebble 360 Pro – ergonomic recline, 360° base for easy loading. Nuna Pipa Urbn – ideal for city living or rideshares with built-in ISOFIX, no base required. Nuna Cari Next – a lie-flat carrycot that’s also a car seat – perfect for naps and spinal support. Convertible Car Seats Best for: Birth to approx. 4 years (or longer depending on the seat)What they are: Seats that start rear-facing and convert to forward-facing as your child grows. Why parents love them: Cost-effective – you’ll use it for several years. Often more spacious and padded than a capsule. Can remain rear-facing for longer, which is safest. Things to consider: Not portable – stays in the car. Check your car for what installation method you need (ISOFIX or seatbelt). Some have rotating bases to make buckling in easier. Great options to compare: Nuna Todl Next – works with a rotating base for easy access. Nuna Revv – built-in 360° rotation, no separate base required. Nuna Rava - seatbelt installed, and known for its simple installation, generous legroom, and plush comfort. Ideal for families who want a long-lasting seat without the need for a base or ISOFIX. Cybex Sirona T – comfortable, safe and easy to use with excellent recline and rotation. All-in-One (Convertible + Booster) Best for: Birth to approx. 11–12 yearsWhat they are: Car seats that transition from rear-facing to forward-facing to booster seat. Why parents love them: One purchase that lasts for years. Saves money in the long run. Ideal for parents who don’t want to keep upgrading. Things to consider: Not portable – stays in the car. No rotating options available. Great options to compare: Nuna Exec – rear-facing from birth, forward-facing to booster mode up to 148cm / 54kg. Britax One4Life Slim – rear-facing to booster mode up to 160cm / 54.4kg. Booster Seats Best for: 4+ years (or as per height and weight guidelines)What they are: Forward-facing seats that position the vehicle seatbelt properly across your child. Why parents love them: Simple to use and install. Gives older kids a good seat height and a view out the window. Often more compact. Things to consider: Only suitable once your child meets minimum size requirements. Great options to compare: Nuna AACE LX – adjustable height, recline, and side impact protection. Britax Skyline – affordable, comfortable, and lightweight. Maxi Cosi Titan Pro – grows with your child from toddler through to booster stage. Other Key Considerations Car fit: Not all seats fit all vehicles – check for compatibility, especially if fitting multiple seats. Ease of use: Consider rotating seats if you struggle with lifting your child in and out. Installation method: ISOFIX is quicker and easier, but seatbelt installs offer flexibility for older vehicles or travel. However ISOFIX does have lower weight restrictions (generally around 18kgs). If a seat allows for both ISOFIX and seatbelt installation it can pay to opt for Vehicle Seat Belt installation as it eliminates having to switch installation method once weight limits are reached. Longevity: Weigh up whether you want a dedicated seat for each stage or one that adapts as your child grows. Need Help Choosing? Our certified car seat technicians are here to help you make the best choice for your family. Visit a Dimples store and get personalised advice, try seats in your car, and enjoy our free professional car seat fitting with purchase. You can also take our handy quiz to find out what might work best for you here Whichever seat you choose, safety and comfort come first – and we’re here to make sure you get both.Shop the full car seat range online or in-store today.

Learn more

July 30, 2024

Stroller Buying Guide: How to pick the right ride for Your Family

Why Choosing the Right Stroller Matters: Essential Tips for New Parents When you have a baby or toddler, a good stroller is essential. It lets you get out of the house and navigate the world with ease. Leaving the house with a newborn can be tricky, so a high-quality, easy-to-use stroller is a lifeline for many new parents. Your stroller is also one of the most expensive baby purchases you’ll make, so it’s important to get it right. You don’t want to invest in a stroller that ends up being too heavy, hard to fold, or difficult to steer. Of course, no one stroller suits every parent. Consider your lifestyle. Will you be navigating bush walks and country paths or be more likely to keep to the footpaths and malls? Before you buy, it’s a good idea to take a look at different models in-store, push them around, fold them down, and open them up to get a feel for how they work. Before you’re overwhelmed by options and terminology - In New Zealand, we tend to use the words pram, stroller, buggy and pushchair interchangeably. Capsule compatibility For new babies, you’ll most likely want a stroller that’s compatible with your capsule car seat. These are particularly handy during the sleepy newborn phase, as they let you move the baby from car to stroller without waking them. Our strollers are compatible with most capsules from well-known brands, such as Maxi Cosi and Nuna. Talk to our in-store team if you want to check on compatibility. Carrycot – or not A detachable carrycot can be incredibly handy in the early stages – from newborn to around 6 months. Lying flat on their back is the best, safest position for newborn baby to be in. If the seat on the stroller you choose has a lie-flat position, a carrycot isn’t essential. But many parents choose them because they simplify life in the first few months. A carrycot attached to your stroller not only allows your baby to sleep comfortably while on the go, it can also be removed and used as a portable bed for a bit of supervised sleep when visiting friends and family. Single vs. Double Strollers: Which is Right for Your Family? When you buy a stroller for your first baby, it can be hard to imagine life with more children. But it’s a good idea to consider your future when making your decision. Some strollers – like the Nuna Demi Next and the Edwards and Co Olive – have the option to add an extra seat for a sibling. If you plan to have two children close in age, this is worth considering. Having twins? Both the Demi next and Olive are tandem strollers, where the seats are not side-by-side but instead tiered. This is more convenient for everyday errands and shopping, as they’re narrower and easier to manage. Another option to consider for an older sibling is a Stroller board that attaches to the back of the stroller. These are great for independent walkers who might tire on a long walk or need a ride to quicken the pace. The right size for your space Strollers come in a range of shapes and sizes. They’re all foldable, but some – like the lightweight Stokke Yoyo – have a more compact fold than others. It even fits in an aeroplane’s overhead locker making it ideal for travel. Travel can be considered a separate stroller category all together – we’ll do a separate blog on those soon. But even for your everyday stroller, you’ll want to think about storage and transport options. Where will you keep your stroller when you’re at home? How big is the boot of your car? How often will you need to lift it into the car, onto public transport or up stairs? If you can, try the stroller in your boot to see how well it fits. If not, measure the space before you make a decision. How easily the stroller folds is another factor to consider and this is where trying a few models in-store is a good idea. One-hand fold mechanisms are incredibly convenient, especially when your arms are full with a little one. If you think you’ll be lifting your stroller frequently, opt for a lightweight model. Which wheels are best? For a while there, three-wheel strollers seemed to be the only option. Now, four-wheel models are having a resurgence in popularity. Three-wheel strollers are typically thought to be easier to steer, especially with one hand – which can be useful if you’re carrying an upset baby and pushing a pram at the same time. Four-wheel strollers, tend to be more compact, making them easier to manage in shops and cafés. They also tend to fold more neatly for easy storage. Tyre type is another factor to consider - larger wheels with foam-filled or inflatable tyres tend to offer better suspension, which is more comfortable for your baby on rough terrain. Whereas smaller swivelling wheels are easier to manoeuvre around busy places and crowded shops For the best of both worlds, the four-wheeled Nuna Mixx has tough, foam filled tyres and boasts easy one-handed steering. The wheels on the New Nuna Swiv offer something unique – with a 360 degree swivel so you can navigate small spaces with side-to-side ease. Forward or back? Forward-facing or rear-facing? If you’ve never bought a stroller before, it can be hard to know what you’ll prefer. Fortunately, this choice is more about preference than safety or practicality. Newborns are naturally drawn to their parent's faces, and a rear-facing stroller lets you interact and keep an eye on them as you go. Then as they grow up, forward-facing gives them a chance to look out on the world around them. Most everyday strollers we sell have convertible parent-facing/world-facing seats so you have both options in one. Other things to consider Comfort features for your little one - like padded seats, adjustable recline positions and good suspension. How comfortable is the handle height? Adjustable handle height can be good for parents of different heights. Does the stroller offer good storage underneath for your baby essentials, nappy bag, and shopping? Fun and functional extras These days, strollers have a huge range of add-ons and accessories – rain and shade covers, parasols, cup holders, snack trays and compatible nappy bags. Choose what’s best for you As with any big purchase, buying a stroller is about working out what’s most important to you, and finding a model that best fits your needs and budget. If you need help finding the right stroller for your family, you can take our Quiz You can also visit one of our stores, talk to the in-store team and take some of our display models for a spin. Check out our range here.

Learn more

May 25, 2023

Tips & Tricks - Cleaning your Carseat

How to Keep Your Car Seat Clean (and Looking Like New!) Parents and caregivers know that washing can quickly take over your life when you’ve got little ones around – especially when it comes to car seats! Kids, being kids, seem to have a knack for turning a spotless, brand-new car seat into a treasure trove of crumbs, spills, and, well, the occasional bodily fluid. While it would be ideal to ban all food and drink from the car seat (let's face it, that’s easier said than done!), prevention is key. A full-sleeved bib worn over the straps can help catch any messes before they even get the chance to make a mark. If a major mess happens (think: vomit, diaper leaks, or spilled drinks), the sooner you clean it up, the better. In between those big cleans, a quick vacuum once a week can keep things under control and prevent crumbs from piling up. For extra protection, consider using protective car seat covers or mats to catch any messes that could cause long-term damage to your car. Here are some simple steps to keep your car seat looking fresh and clean: 1. Vacuum Your Seat Give your seat a quick shake to loosen any crumbs or debris, then vacuum up the mess before removing the car seat for a deeper clean. This will stop any stray bits from making a mess as you go! 2. Remove and Wash the Car Seat Covers Start by checking your car seat’s instruction manual for cleaning guidelines. Many car seat covers are machine washable, but some may require hand washing. Be sure to note any special instructions about detergent, water temperature, or removable parts. Pro tip: Take a few photos or a video as you remove the covers. This can be a lifesaver when it's time to reassemble! A gentle, mild detergent or just soap and water are typically your best bet. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals, as these can damage or weaken the fabric. When it comes to drying, line drying is your safest option, as most car seat covers can't go in the dryer. Give them plenty of time to air out and dry completely. 3. Clean the Harness & Straps Use a non-abrasive cloth and warm water to spot clean the harness and straps. Follow your manual’s instructions, as some manufacturers allow using soapy water, while others may not. 4. Clean the Buckles Buckles are critical for keeping your child safe, so avoid submerging them in water or using any lubricants. Instead, spot clean them with warm water and a soft cloth, keeping them free from soap or cleaning products. 5. Clean the Shell Vacuum the car seat shell to catch any loose bits, then use an old toothbrush or cotton bud to get into those tricky nooks and crannies. A damp cloth can help wipe down any sticky or dirty areas. Make sure the shell is fully dry before putting everything back together. 6. Reassemble Your Seat If you took photos or videos while disassembling, now is the time to refer back to them! Check your manual to ensure all parts are correctly reassembled, and give the harness and buckles a final check to ensure they’re securely fitted and ready for your little one. Note: This guide is intended to help with your car seat cleaning routine, but always follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions in your car seat manual to keep your warranty intact.

Learn more