Yes, many Goodwill locations do accept car seats, but there are important conditions and exceptions. The primary requirement is that the car seat must be recently manufactured, in excellent condition, and not have any expired labels or recalls. Due to strict safety standards, Goodwill organizations are highly selective to avoid reselling products that could compromise child safety.
Before you load up the car, it's essential to understand the policies, which can vary significantly by region. Goodwill is a network of independent, community-based organizations, so the rules are set locally.
Key Conditions for Donation:
- No Expiration: Car seats have an expiration date, usually 6 to 10 years from the manufacture date, found on a label on the seat itself. Expired plastic can become brittle and fail in a crash.
- No Accidents: The seat must never have been in a vehicle during a moderate or severe collision.
- Excellent Condition: All parts, harnesses, buckles, and the base must be present and fully functional. There should be no cracks in the plastic shell or fraying on the straps.
- Cleanliness: The seat must be thoroughly cleaned. Stains or odors are often grounds for refusal.
- Up-to-Date: It must not be subject to any open safety recalls. You can check this on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.
The safest approach is to call your local Goodwill donation center directly to confirm their current policy. If your car seat doesn't meet their criteria, inquire about recycling programs. Many municipalities offer specific recycling events for car seats to keep them out of landfills.
