Energy-Absorbing Foam

What is Energy-Absorbing Foam?
At Britax we use two different types of energy-absorbing foam: 1) EPS or Expanded Polystyrene foam, or 2) EPP or Expanded Polypropylene foam. Both EPS and EPP are closed cell, lightweight and resilient foamed plastics designed to cushion your child from impact forces.

Q: Where is the Energy-Absorbing Foam located on the car seat?
A: At Britax, we include energy-absorbing foam where it is needed most, along the inside of the shells and head restraints.

Q: How does my child benefit from a seat lined with Energy-Absorbing Foam?
A: Injuries may occur when crash forces make contact with your child. Energy-absorbing foam is used to absorb some of those crash forces, keeping your child from absorbing them and therefore minimizing injury.

Q: How does the Energy-Absorbing Foam work?
A: The energy-absorbing foam deforms during a crash when your child makes contact with it. At the point of contact, the foam crushes; the energy required to crush the foam is absorbed by the foam instead of your child. The foam also acts as a barrier between your child and the rigid seat shell and any other intruding objects such as the vehicle door or window.

Q: How long has Britax incorporated Energy-Absorbing Foam in their seats?
A: Britax has been incorporating energy-absorbing foam in its products since 1996.

Q: Why does the foam sometimes break when the seat has not been involved in an accident?
A: In the life span of a car seat, it is possible that components may be affected by wear and tear or breaking. Britax has replaceable parts available to our consumers to ensure their product functions in the safest manner for the life of the seat.

Q: What should I do if my Energy-Absorbing Foam breaks on my car seat?
A: If you have questions or concerns and would like to speak with a Britax representative directly, please call our Consumer Services department at 1-888-427-4829. If calling from outside the USA or Canada, please dial: 1-704-409-1699

Hours of operation:
Monday to Thursday: 9:00 am - 5:15 pm (ET)
Friday: 9:00 am - 4:45 pm (ET)

Q: Can I still use the seat with the broken foam while I wait to receive my replacement foam?
A: Yes. The seat is still structurally safe to use as long as the foam is positioned in the same place in which it was intended. Sometimes taping the foam in place is suggested in order to prevent it from wiggling. Taping the foam does not compromise the safety of the car seat.