Infant Car Seats

How old can an infant car seat be and still be considered safe. My husband's cousin has two for us. One is just about a year and a half old, figured that would be ok. The other is like five or so years old, I don't know, to me that would seem a bit old. But I need some proof to back this up to my husband lol Maybe it is safe, I don't know. Any thoughts or any web sites regarding car seat safety?

Dianna

 

Hi Dianna,

Here is a page with information for all kinds of car seats and car seat safety:
Car Seat Safety

 

I think the rule is if it's more than 4-5 years, you should get a replacement. Of course- if it's ever been in an accident or recalled, don't use it.

 

I've heard they 'expire' after 5 years! I'd check out that site.

 

Checked out the site...thanks for posting it. Graco(which both seats are, says six years. No accidents. But I feel like it is pushing it with the one. Think I will just pass on the nice jester and purchase new ones or used but not used so long ago ones just for peace of mind. Had found a perfect pair on Craigslist, both for $45 , of course gone...wish people would remove ads once something is sold LOL


Dianna

 

I think they actually have an 'expiration date' printed right on them (the graco ones anyway!) or maybe it's just the manufacture date?? Sorry not much help, lol!

 

QUOTE(Chillers @ Dec 6 2007, 01:53 PM) [snapback]523434[/snapback]
I think they actually have an 'expiration date' printed right on them (the graco ones anyway!) or maybe it's just the manufacture date?? Sorry not much help, lol!

The website says they do So you are correct I have not seen them yet, so have not been able to check out the date.

Dianna

 

QUOTE(Dianna @ Dec 6 2007, 06:52 PM) [snapback]523432[/snapback]
Think I will just pass on the nice jester and purchase new ones or used but not used so long ago ones just for peace of mind. Had found a perfect pair on Craigslist, both for $45 , of course gone...wish people would remove ads once something is sold LOL
Dianna


Personally I'd be a little leary of getting used carseats from someone you didn't know (ie craigslist, freecycle etc.) You just never know, and with carseats, I'd rather be safe than sorry.

That being said, other used things I've got no trouble accepting!!

 

QUOTE(Chillers @ Dec 6 2007, 01:55 PM) [snapback]523441[/snapback]
Personally I'd be a little leary of getting used carseats from someone you didn't know (ie craigslist, freecycle etc.) You just never know, and with carseats, I'd rather be safe than sorry.

That being said, other used things I've got no trouble accepting!!


True..could have been in an accident and the people might not admit to it.

Dianna

 

I've always heard 5 years as well.

 

im always more inclined to just buying a new seat for peace of mind

 

I bought my 2 from a police officer who had twins that were 2 years old. I am so happy I got them used as we were out of them by 3 months. DS was 25.5 " and they only go to 26"

I also see people with babies close to a year old in them and I wonder how they can still be safe if my DS was only 1/2 and inch away from outgrowing it at 3 months.

The Graco seats definately have expiration dates.

 

QUOTE(Tammy Fine @ Dec 6 2007, 09:03 PM) [snapback]523681[/snapback]
I also see people with babies close to a year old in them and I wonder how they can still be safe if my DS was only 1/2 and inch away from outgrowing it at 3 months.

The Graco seats definately have expiration dates.


I actually just posted about this, we're still in our seats. Our seats go to 29" and 22lbs and we're just now getting to where I have to change them out! So we definitely got our bang for our buck (or my parents did rather..shower gift)

 

29" would have been nice. Graco only goes to 26. Thomas is 27.5 now at 5 months, so at this rate in another month he would have needed a new one anyways

 

I've always heard and read 6 years. If I knew the cousin well, I would take the seats. Especially if the 5 year old one is an infant carseat because they'll only use that for a few months. I admit, I would be less likely to use used seats with my first children though. You're just much more protective of them because they are new and so are you. With my 3rd, I wouldn't mind at all.

 

QUOTE(Tammy Fine @ Dec 6 2007, 10:57 PM) [snapback]523830[/snapback]
29" would have been nice. Graco only goes to 26. Thomas is 27.5 now at 5 months, so at this rate in another month he would have needed a new one anyways


Depends on the Graco seat, ours go to 29".

So everyone really needs to look at each individual seat and go from there. And ultimately do what you are comfortable with for you and your family.

 

QUOTE(Chillers @ Dec 7 2007, 10:05 AM) [snapback]524592[/snapback]
Depends on the Graco seat, ours go to 29".

So everyone really needs to look at each individual seat and go from there. And ultimately do what you are comfortable with for you and your family.



yes, I checked last night and the brand new ones go to 29. Older ones go to 26. Yet another reason to go with a new one!