Baby gear recalls and the registration card you threw away
That little postcard in the car seat box exists for one reason: so the manufacturer can reach you if something goes wrong.
By the Recall Radar team, October 5, 2026, 5 min read
The short version
- Durable infant products come with registration cards so makers can contact you about recalls.
- Registering takes two minutes and can usually be done online.
- Check secondhand cribs, strollers and seats before using them.
- Selling or giving away recalled products is illegal in the U.S.
Cribs, high chairs, strollers, play yards, bassinets, baby carriers and similar "durable" infant products are required to come with a product registration card. Car seats have their own registration system too. It's easy to toss these with the packaging, but they're one of the few ways a manufacturer can reach you directly if there's a safety problem.
Register everything, today
Most manufacturers let you register online using the model number and manufacture date printed on the product. The information you give is meant for safety communications, so registering doesn't sign you up for marketing.
Secondhand gear needs a check
Hand-me-downs and resale finds are a great way to save money, but older products may have been recalled after the original owner bought them, and the warning never reached them. Before using secondhand gear:
- Find the model number and manufacture date (usually on a label on the frame or underside).
- Search for recalls on that model.
- Check for missing parts, cracked plastic or loose hardware.
- For car seats, also check the expiration date and whether the seat has been in a crash.
Passing it on
Under federal law, it's illegal to sell a product that has been recalled, and that includes yard sales and online marketplaces. If you're passing on baby gear, check it first.
Kids grow, products change
Toys, gear and clothing change every few months as kids grow. Keeping your household profile current means recalls are matched to what your children are using now, not what they used last year.
This article is general information, not medical, veterinary or legal advice. Always follow the instructions in the official recall notice and talk to a professional about your situation.