do baby seats expire

Yes, baby seats do expire, and no, it's not just a ploy to make you buy a new one every few years. Most manufacturers slap an expiry date of around 6 to 10 years from the date of manufacture on their car seats. This is because materials degrade over time, and safety standards evolve faster than you can say "parenting is hard." Using an expired baby seat is like using a parachute with holes—best avoided.

Check the label on your seat for the exact expiry date, and if you're buying second-hand from places like Tradingpost or PuppyList, confirm the manufacture date to avoid surprises. Always consult the official manual for your specific model to stay on the safe side.