Install the infant car seat in advance
In the Netherlands, children shorter than 1.35 metres must travel in an approved child car seat. Choose a seat suited to your child’s height and weight and check that it is compatible with your car. Follow the instructions for the seat belt or Isofix and the position of the carrying handle.
Keep a baby rear-facing for as long as possible. Place a rear-facing seat on the front passenger seat only when the airbag is switched off. Do not use a seat-belt extender, and before every journey check that the harness straps lie flat and fit snugly.
Use the car seat and pushchair for travel
An infant car seat is intended for safe travel, not as a regular place to sleep at home. On arrival, take the baby out of the seat and, for a longer sleep, place them flat on their back in a suitable bed. Limit the total time spent in a curved position and allow regular free movement.
For a young baby, use a lie-flat carrycot that the manufacturer states is suitable. Apply the brakes when stationary, use the safety harness as soon as the instructions require it and do not hang a heavy bag from the handlebar.
Keep the airway clear while babywearing
In a sling or baby carrier, the face must remain visible and the nose and mouth must be clear. The chin should not be pressed onto the chest. Provide firm support suited to the baby’s age and weight and follow the product instructions.
Do not breastfeed while the baby is in the carrier and do not use the carrier as a regular place to sleep. Never carry a baby in a sling or carrier while cycling. If your baby was born prematurely or has a medical condition, ask a clinician for advice first.
Wait for independent sitting before using a bike seat
A baby can use a bike seat only once they can move from a crawling position into sitting by themselves and remain stable. The timing differs for every child and often comes later in the first year. Age alone is not enough.
Then choose a seat suited to the child’s weight and secure the shoulder straps and foot straps. Fit spoke guards and never leave a bicycle on its stand with the child in the seat. Check the attachment and fit regularly.
Sources for this guide
This guide provides general information. Your healthcare professional or the competent authority can explain what applies in your situation.
- Rijksoverheid: rules for child car seatsAccessed on 2026-09-07
- VeiligheidNL: safe babywearingAccessed on 2026-09-07
- VeiligheidNL: cycling safely with childrenAccessed on 2026-09-07