[Submitted Question]

Obviously we need a carseat for the baby. However, we are working with a tight budget and I am wondering whether it would we acceptable to buy a used carseat?

[WombToBloom]

Unless it is from your good friend or your sister, I’d skip the used carseat. This is not an area to skimp on. You can forego the darling nursery valances and the newfangled diaper pail. But don’t compromise your baby’s safety for a few bucks.

If a friend or family member offers a carseat, ask them if it was ever in a wreck and how old it is. Check out the make and model and then check the internet for any product recall information. Sometimes, it seems like these carseats get recalled every month!

A seat that was in a wreck could have structural deficiencies that you won’t be able to notice. An older seat may be “expired” by the manufacturer’s guidelines. Most seats will expire within six years of their manufacture date. The manufacturer will no longer vouch for its safety due to potential deterioration and wear-and-tear.