If you've got an expired, outgrown, or banged-up car seat taking up prime real estate in your garage, Target will take it off your hands AND give you 20% off new baby gear. That's a win-win if I've ever heard one.
Here's everything you need to know to make the most of it.
What Is the Target Car Seat Trade-In Program?
Twice a year, Target runs a trade-in event where you can drop off an old car seat (any brand, any condition) at a participating store and walk away with a 20% Target Circle bonus toward select baby gear.
Right now, the program runs April 19 to May 2, with the bonus valid through May 16, 2026.
Since the program launched in April 2016, Target has recycled over 3.5 million car seats (or 1.2 million pounds of car seat material) turning all that sticky, Cheerio-dusted plastic into things like pallets, plastic buckets, construction materials, and even select Brightroom products.
What Car Seats Qualify?
All of these are accepted, regardless of brand:
- Infant car seats
- Convertible car seats
- Car seat bases
- Harness or booster car seats
- Seats that have been in an accident or are damaged
- Seats that are expired
Basically: if it's a car seat you're done with, it qualifies. Just note that this program is car seats and bases only – strollers, bouncers, and other gear don't go in the drop-off box, so don't make a wasted trip with a trunk full of miscellaneous baby equipment.
Wait, Do Car Seats Expire?
They do, and a lot of parents don't realize it. Most car seats expire 6 to 10 years from the manufacture date (it varies by brand and model). To find yours, look for a sticker on the seat itself – it'll show the manufacture date, and sometimes the expiration date outright. If it's not obvious, check the manufacturer's website using the model name.
If your seat has hit its expiration date, it legally shouldn't be used anymore anyway, so this trade-in is the perfect send-off.
How the Target Car Seat Trade-In Works (Step by Step)
You'll want the Target App downloaded before you go so you can grab your bonus on the spot.
- Bring your old car seat or base to a participating Target store. Drop-off boxes are located near Guest Services.
- Scan the QR code on the box with your mobile device to add the bonus to your Target Circle account. (A team member at Guest Services can sort you out if you need help.)
- Find your bonus in your Target Circle Wallet.
- Use it. The bonus can be applied in-store or online, and it's redeemable twice.
What Can You Use the 20% Bonus On?
The bonus applies to:
- Car seats, booster seats, and car seat bases
- Travel systems and strollers
- Select baby home gear: playards, high chairs, swings, rockers, bouncers, walkers, entertainers, and jumpers
A couple of things to keep in mind: the bonus excludes Target Plus items and clearance, but it can be combined with other item-level offers, which is worth knowing if something is already on sale. And since you can use it twice, you could potentially stack savings on two separate purchases.
A Few Things Worth Knowing Before You Go
These trade-in events can get busy toward the end of the window, and some stores run out of box space. Going earlier, closer to April 19, tends to mean fewer crowds and less hassle.
Also, don't overthink whether your seat "qualifies." If it's a car seat and you're done with it, Target will take it. Expired, damaged, ancient, curb garbage, all fair game.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I trade in more than one car seat? Yes, but you receive one 20% bonus per Target Circle account, regardless of how many seats you drop off.
Does the bonus stack with other offers? Yes, it can be combined with other item-level offers, which is great if something you want is already discounted. Just note it excludes Target Plus items and clearance.
What if I don't have the Target App? You'll need to scan the QR code on the drop-off box to get your bonus, so downloading the Target App beforehand is the easiest route. If you run into trouble, Guest Services at the store can help.
What does Target do with the old car seats? They're recycled by Target's partners into new products like pallets, plastic buckets, steel beams, carpet padding, and select Brightroom items. So your old seat genuinely has a second life.
Is this a seasonal thing? Target typically runs the program twice a year, in spring and fall. Setting a reminder now means you won't miss the next one.
Is It Worth It?
If you already have a seat to get rid of, absolutely. You were going to deal with it eventually you might as well get 20% off a new stroller or playard out of it. And the seat is being recycled rather than ending up in a landfil
Set a calendar reminder for April 19 so this one doesn't sneak past you!
Related: Finding the Best Infant Car Seat
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