When Do Car Seats Go On Sale? The Best Times to Buy

Car seats are a significant financial investment for families. Prices can fluctuate, so understanding sales cycles is beneficial. Strategic purchasing leads to savings, helping families manage budgets. Knowing when and where to find discounts allows parents to acquire high-quality car seats without paying full price.

Annual Sale Patterns

Car seats are frequently discounted throughout the year, often coinciding with major holidays and seasonal inventory changes. Black Friday and Cyber Monday in November are major sales events where many car seat brands and retailers offer substantial price reductions. Discounts during this period can range from 20% to 35% off mid-range car seats. Similarly, other public holidays like Memorial Day in May and Labor Day in September often feature sales on baby gear, including car seats.

Beyond holiday periods, retailers often clear out older models to make room for new inventory, leading to sales in certain months. July is a notable time for sales events, including Amazon’s Prime Day and other retailer-specific promotions, where significant discounts on car seats are common. January can also be a period for clearance sales as stores aim to move remaining stock from the previous year.

Major Retailer Sales Events

Large retailers frequently host their own unique sales events that extend beyond general holiday promotions. Amazon Prime Day, typically occurring in mid-July, is a prominent example, offering considerable discounts on various car seat brands. Similarly, Target hosts its “Circle Week” events multiple times a year, including March, July, and October. Target also conducts an annual “Baby Event” in September, providing extensive discounts on baby essentials.

Walmart, another major retailer, offers ongoing “Rollbacks” and “Clearance” deals on car seats throughout the year. They also have “Baby Days” sales events, which provide savings of 30% to 60% on baby and toddler products. A unique opportunity for savings is Target’s Car Seat Trade-In event, which typically happens in April and September. During this event, consumers can exchange an old car seat, regardless of its condition, for a 20% off coupon applicable to a new car seat or other select baby gear.

Manufacturer Promotions and Clearance

Discounts on car seats are also driven by the manufacturers themselves or by retailers managing their specific inventory. When new car seat models are released, older versions are frequently marked down to clear stock. These manufacturer-driven promotions or clearance sales can occur at any time, independent of seasonal or holiday sales cycles. Some brands may offer sales directly on their websites.

In addition, “open box” car seats or overstock items are sometimes available at significant discounts, with savings potentially reaching up to 70% off retail prices. Consumers might find these deals through specialized online retailers or in clearance sections of larger stores. Some programs may exist for trading in old car seats for discounts on new ones, similar to Target’s event.

Tips for Securing Deals

Sign up for retailer newsletters and email alerts to receive notifications about upcoming sales and exclusive discounts. Utilize price tracking tools or apps to monitor specific car seat models and alert you when prices drop. Regularly check clearance sections of online and physical stores.

Follow car seat brands and retailers on social media for real-time updates on flash sales or limited-time offers. When considering discounted or clearance car seats, always check the expiration date, which is typically found on a label on the seat or in the user manual. Car seats have a defined lifespan, usually between 6 to 10 years from the date of manufacture, due to wear and tear and evolving safety standards. Ensuring the car seat meets current safety standards is a necessary step before purchase, regardless of the discount.