Why do baby seats expire

If a car seat expires when a kid only has a few months left using it, parents may be tempted to buy a secondhand one or take an old seat from someone they know.

The NHTSA has a searchable registry of recalls , as well as a checklist for determining whether a car seat that was involved in a car crash is safe to use. When in doubt, parents should call the manufacturer directly. Whatever you do, just remember the most important thing, which is to use a carseat, no matter what.

Sign up for the Fatherly newsletter to get original articles and expert advice about parenting, fitness, gear, and more in your inbox every day. Please try again. I think the time frames are very reasonable. As for the environmental impact, would it be nice if we could keep car seats out of the landfill?

This is a minor one, but an older seat may have been part of a car seat recall, and you might not have been informed or you may not have noticed. This is one of the many reasons why you should avoid buying second-hand seats, especially if the seat is past its expiration date. Now that you understand just how important it is to know your car seat expiration date, the real question is: where do I find it?

Just like a loaf of bread, most car seats have the car seat expiration date stamped on the side or on the base of the seat. Very few seats last longer than the standard six years.

This is alright if the seat is an infant or rear-facing, as most likely your child will outgrow the seat before the expiration date hits. There are a variety of seats out there that are designed to suit any child and family lifestyle! What you should avoid though, is buying used car seats. If the seat is older, past its expiry date, or was in a crash, it should definitely not be re-used. Our team will be more than happy to help you with any of your child safety needs.

Search Search our store. Strollers Stroller accessories. Plane travel Baby carriers. Car seat installations Consultations. The short answer is no. Car seats do not have a set expiration date like food or drinks, and there are no legal requirements that determine their maximum usage.

Instead, manufacturers have a recommended service life see below for each car seat model.