Why you should register your baby gear (and how to do it in minutes)
That little postcard in the box matters. Registration is how a company can warn you if your baby's gear is recalled.
Why registration matters
When a product is recalled, the company announces it publicly, but many parents never see the news. Registered owners can be contacted directly by mail or email. Federal rules require makers of durable infant and toddler products, such as cribs, high chairs, strollers, play yards, bath seats and carriers, to include a registration card.
What to register
- Cribs and bassinets.
- Car seats (also regulated by NHTSA).
- Strollers.
- High chairs and booster seats.
- Play yards.
- Carriers and slings.
- Baby gates, bath seats and bouncers.
What we mention
How to do it
- Find the registration card in the box, or look for a registration link or QR code on the product label.
- Fill in your name and contact information, plus the model number and date of manufacture.
- Keep a photo of the label on your phone, in a "baby gear" album.
Information from registration cards is for safety notices, so you shouldn't be added to marketing lists through it.
Gifts and hand-me-downs
If you received gear as a gift or secondhand, you can usually still register it on the manufacturer's website. Check the CPSC recall list first.
Set a reminder
Every few months, search CPSC.gov/Recalls for the products you use most. It takes five minutes.
