Target runs car seat trade-in events multiple times a year, typically in spring (April-May), fall (September-October), and around the holidays (late November-December), allowing customers to recycle old seats for a 20% off coupon on new ones via the Target Circle app.

As of early 2026, the most recent events have concluded, with the next expected in Spring 2026 —check Target's site or app for exact dates.

Event Schedule

Target's program follows a predictable pattern based on past years:

  • Spring : April 27-May 10, 2025 (coupon valid until May 24).
  • Fall : September 21-October 4, 2025 (coupon until October 18).
  • Holiday : Late November 2025 (exact dates vary; prior event ended before 2026).
  • Upcoming : Spring 2026 anticipated, as hinted post-2025 holiday wrap-up.

Participation Steps

  1. Locate a participating Target store (most full-size locations; skip small-format ones).
  1. Bring any car seat—infant, convertible, booster, base, expired, damaged, or crashed.
  1. Drop it in the Guest Services box, scan the QR code with Target Circle app.
  2. Get 20% off coupon (usable twice on car seats, strollers, select baby gear; check eligible items online).

Why It Matters

Since 2016, Target has recycled over 3 million seats into materials like pallets and buckets, keeping them from landfills. Parents on Reddit rave about the savings during baby prep seasons, like r/BabyBumps threads buzzing in April 2025.

"Pro tip: Stock up on strollers too—the coupon covers more than seats!" – Common forum advice.

TL;DR : No active event now (January 2026), but Spring 2026 is next—scan app for updates.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.