Only Recyclable in Pieces
While whole car seats aren’t recyclable, they can be recycled in pieces. You’ll need to disassemble the seat so you can recycle the plastic, metal and fabric components separately.
Alternative Ways to Recycle
No Accidents, Not Expired? Donate
You can donate a car seat, but only if it has never been in an accident, if it has not expired, and if the straps haven’t been chemically cleaned. Some donation centers will not accept car seats, so look for organizations that provide family services, like women’s shelters.
Community Recycling Programs
Recycle Your Car Seat has compiled a list of programs that recycle car seats in the United States, complete with instructions specific to each one. See a list of locations here.
Clek Recycling Program
You can recycle Clek car seats for a $40 fee, which Clek will give back to you in store credit. Contact their customer service to receive a UPS label, ship your seat and shop online to replace it. Find out more here.
Target Car Seat Trade-In Program
Target runs periodically car seat trade-in events. Guests who trade in their old car seats will receive a discount coupon for a new car seat or other select child equipment. Complete details can be found on Target’s website.