Preparing for a new baby doesn’t necessarily mean you need to spend a fortune. Buying used can save you a lot of money. However, there are certain items that require careful consideration when purchased secondhand, such as car seats.
Understanding Car Seats
By law, it’s prohibited to sell a car seat that’s been involved in a crash. Yet, many people unknowingly do this. Despite the sincerity of sellers on platforms like Craigslist or yard sales, there’s always a small risk associated with buying a used car seat. It’s advisable to acquire secondhand car seats from known and trusted people.
Furthermore, numerous car seat recalls have occurred in the last three years, reinforcing the importance of thorough research before any purchase. For maximum safety, take any car seat that’s more than a year old (even if it’s solely been under your use) to your local fire department. They can conduct safety checks and let you know if it’s still safe to use.
Understanding Car Seat Expirations
Most car seat manufacturers suggest a six-year expiration on their products, a notion that some may find absurd or manipulative. However, over time, materials can degrade, particularly with constant use or long storage periods. The plastic and strap materials in car seats can weaken due to prolonged use, different weather conditions while in storage, and other factors.
Insurance Considerations
Nobody anticipates being in a car accident, especially with your precious little one on board. But if an accident does occur, insurance companies might not take kindly to older or previously damaged car seats. Many insurers won’t cover the cost of a new seat if they discover the old one has a history.
Saving Money on Car Seats
While it isn’t advisable to buy a used car seat, you can still find ways to save money. Look for sales at stores like Target, Babies R Us, and Amazon. Babies R Us even hosts a biannual trade-in event where you can trade used gear for 25% off a new item. If family and friends ask what you need for the baby, this could be a chance to ask for help in affording a car seat.
When you’re budgeting for a baby, there are countless safe and innovative ways to save, like buying secondhand clothes and toys or opting to breastfeed and make homemade baby food. But when it comes to safety, no amount of savings should compromise your child’s wellbeing.
