Everything You Need To Know About Target’s Car Seat Trade-In Event

September 12, 2026

Target’s Car Seat Trade-In Event is back for its 10th year, running September 20 through October 3, 2026 — and this time you can trade in any car seat, no matter its condition, to score a 20% Target Circle bonus toward a new one.

When	September 20 – October 3, 2026 (bonus valid through October 17, 2026)
Where	Participating Target stores (nearly all locations); trade-in is in-store only
What you get	20% Target Circle bonus, usable on two separate transactions
What you can spend it on	New car seats, bases, travel systems, strollers, or select baby gear — in-store or online
Cost to participate	Free — no purchase required, no condition requirements on the seat you bring in
Bonus deadline	October 17, 2026

What’s Happening

For the 10th consecutive year, Target is inviting families to drop off old car seats at participating stores in exchange for a savings bonus on new baby gear. The program runs September 20 through October 3, 2026, and according to Target’s corporate fact sheet, nearly all store locations are taking part.

The trade-in accepts any car seat — infant seats, convertibles, boosters, bases, and even expired, damaged, or crash-involved seats. Target says there are no condition requirements, so if you’ve been holding onto a seat you weren’t sure how to dispose of, this is your answer.

How to Do It (Step by Step)

The process is straightforward. Bring your old car seat to a participating Target store and drop it in the designated collection box near Guest Services. Then scan the QR code on or near the box using the Target app — you’ll need a free Target Circle account to claim the bonus.

Once scanned, a 20% bonus gets added to your Target Circle account. That bonus can be used on two separate transactions (not just one), giving you some flexibility if you’re buying a seat now and stocking up on other baby gear later. The bonus is redeemable both in-store and online, but it does exclude Target Plus and clearance items. You’re limited to one bonus per account.

More Deals Running Alongside the Event

Target says additional rotating baby assortment offers will run during the event weeks, including deals on diapers and wipes as well as BOGO discounts on accessories, toiletries, clothing, and toys. The company hasn’t published the full schedule upfront, so it’s worth checking the Target app or weekly ad during the event window for what’s live.

“As little ones grow, families’ needs change quickly, and they want a place where they can find trusted products, great prices and everything they need in one trip,” said Amanda Nusz, Target’s senior vice president of merchandising, essentials and beauty.

What It Means for You

If you have an old or expired car seat sitting in the garage, this event is one of the better ways to offload it responsibly while getting real money off a new purchase. Target says the program has recycled more than 3.8 million car seats over the years, diverting 63.7 million pounds of materials from landfills — the seats are turned into Brightroom and Room Essentials products.

The bonus window extends two weeks past the trade-in deadline (through October 17), so you don’t have to shop the same day you drop off. Just note the Target Plus and clearance exclusions if you’re eyeing a specific item, and confirm your local store is participating before making the trip.

Quick Questions

When does Target’s Car Seat Trade-In Event end in 2026?
The trade-in window closes October 3, 2026. The 20% Target Circle bonus you earn can be used through October 17, 2026.

Can I trade in a damaged or expired car seat?
Yes. Target accepts any car seat regardless of condition — including expired, damaged, or crash-involved seats. There are no condition requirements.

How many times can I use the 20% Target Circle bonus?
The bonus can be applied to two separate transactions. You earn one bonus per Target Circle account.

Can I use the bonus online?
Yes. The 20% bonus is redeemable both in-store and online via Target Circle, though it excludes Target Plus and clearance items.

Mark September 20 on your calendar, download the Target app if you haven’t already, and start clearing out that old car seat — the bonus clock runs through October 17.