Expired car seats may seem like a waste of money, but there are ways you can use them. There are ways to repurpose them, ways to recycle them, and ways to make sure you don’t get fined for using them.
Can you be fined for using an expired car seat?
Using an expired car seat with a child can be a dangerous proposition. In fact, if you are pulled over for speeding, you might receive a ticket for using an expired child restraint system.
Most manufacturers post expiration dates on the side of the seat or inside the instruction manual. Some manufacturers even offer recycling programs. Most countries even prohibit the sale or use of an expired car seat. Using an expired seat can increase the risk of severe injuries.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration sponsors a car seat awareness campaign every year. Following these safety guidelines can reduce the chance of serious injuries by up to 80%.
Some manufacturers also have expiration dates on the back of the seat. If you want to be sure, contact the manufacturer to find out when your seat will be out of date.
Car seats are made of hard plastic and are susceptible to degradation and wear and tear. During a crash, the weak points in the seat can cause failure.
Recycle the bulky plastic body and all-metal pieces
Expired car seats may not be safe for your child in the long run. Many manufacturers do not test for expiration dates and the seat may be out of date. The best option is to dispose of your old car seat in an environmentally friendly fashion.
The best way to do this is to recycle the bulky plastic body and all-metal pieces of your old seat. Luckily, there are many programs available to make this a no brainer. The first thing to do is read up on the programs available in your area and decide which one is best for you.
The best way to find out is to enlist the help of your council recycling coordinator. They are often more than willing to advise on which programs are best for your community. They may also be able to point you in the direction of the most reputable car seat recyclers in your area.
The most effective way to dispose of your old seat is to find one of the programs mentioned above. They will be happy to help you dispose of it.
Donate
Getting rid of unused car seats can be a bit daunting, but there are ways to make the process easier. First, consider whether or not the seat you have has any safety issues. If not, then it’s best to pass it along to a family in need.
Second, you can look to local charities. Some will accept used car seats. These are usually in good condition and can be handed down to a new family. Other organizations, such as the Salvation Army, will accept other baby items. You may also be able to donate your seat to a women’s shelter or pregnancy resource centre.
