Did you know that car seats expire? If you have an expired car seat or even just an old car seat your child has outgrown, hang on to it so you can bring it to Walmart in time for their next car seat trade in! At the 2019 car seat trade in event, parents were eligible for a $30 Walmart gift card with every car seat trade-in, and it looks like they’ll be similar benefits next time around. More: 8 Tips to Minimize Distractions When Driving with a Newborn
Walmart Car Seat Trade In Details
Walmart’s first ever car seat trade-in program happened September 16th - 30th, 2019, and they are gearing up for another, due to the overwhelming response at their last car seat recycling program, where they reached capacity in less than a week! Walmart collected nearly one million car seats, which is the equivalent of diverting over 200 million plastic bottles from landfills, according to their partner, TerraCycle. Walmart teamed up with TerraCycle to recycle used car seats. The extra $30 Walmart gift card is definitely a bonus, but you can also feel good knowing that your car seat is avoiding landfills.
Here’s How It Works
It’s really that simple! Many Walmart locations will also be hosting free events in honor of National Baby Safety Month, although it’s definitely possible that these events will be virtual for the time being, as long as COVID-19 is still in our midst. In the past we saw everything from diaper challenges to stroller testing, and we are excited to see what they offer next. Although we hope the COVID pandemic will finally have passed by the next car seat recycling event, whatever the format, these informative and fun events are a great way for parents to learn more about their child’s safety and test out the latest gear. For additional details, check out the Walmart event page. If you aren’t sure when your child’s car seat expires, now is a great time to find out!
The Fine Print
Limit 2 trade ins per household (limit 2 gift cards) Booster Seats are not accepted
How it Compares to the Target Car Seat Trade-In
Target also offers a car seat trade-in program, with their partner, Waste Management. Here’s a quick comparison of the two retailers’ car seat trade-in events: Check out all of the details for Target’s trade in program here, plus information on car seat expiration and safety. Looking to save on baby items? Consider buying used, but first check out The Baby Items You Should Never Buy Used (+2 That Are BetterSecondhand).
