- Typically must not be older than 6 years, unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer
- Can not have been in a crash
- Not be on a recall list
- Have all of its parts
- Not be damaged
- Have the owner’s manual
- Stored well by previous owner
- Know the complete history of the seat
So basically, if you don’t know the person…REALLY know them and trust them…with the life of your child, then using the used seat is not a good idea. Someone you say hi to every now and then, someone you work with or met online, doesn’t mean you know them.
Should I use a used car seat from:
- Garage sales: NO
- Consignment shops: NO (Some shops sell brand-new, in that case…go for it!)
- Friend of a friend: NO (Best friend: It may be ok if you know them well & trust them. Did they take good care of the seat? Does it meet the requirements above?)
- Craig’s List/Facebook: NO
- Family member: MAYBE (It may be ok if you know them well & trust them (sister, brother…). If they took good care of the seat and it meets the requirements above.
- A previous child: MAYBE (if you took good care of the seat and it meets the requirements above)
*Problem is, friends and family may not know that they are missing something, remember that it’s been in a wreck, think about it being stored in 100 degree heat. A lot of time, damage/stress to a car seat cannot be seen by the human eye!
Take the guess work out of the equation and go with a new seat. Join hands with Lexlee’s Kids in caring for your kid’s safety. If you have questions or comments about car seats or child safety, post here or contact Lexlee’s Kids at 225.372.3991. Schedule your appointment TODAY!
