Family Recall BriefBuying or accepting used baby and kids' products: check for recalls first
Last reviewed November 1, 2026
Recalled products should not be resold
Under U.S. law it is illegal to sell a recalled consumer product, including at yard sales, thrift stores, consignment shops and online marketplaces. Resellers are not always aware of recalls, so the check is up to you.
Find the model and date first
Look for the brand, model name or number and the manufacture date, usually on a label on the back or bottom. If the label is missing or unreadable, you cannot confirm the product is safe, so consider skipping it.
Check it against the official notices
Search the model at cpsc.gov/Recalls for most nursery items, toys and children's products, and at nhtsa.gov/recalls for car seats. Match the model and the date range listed in the notice.
Look for missing parts and instructions
Cribs, high chairs, strollers and similar products rely on every original part. If screws, rails, straps or the instruction manual are missing, ask the maker for replacements before use, or pass on the product. Manuals are often available on the maker's website.
Use what the recall notice says
If a product was recalled and repaired, the notice describes what the fix looks like. Ask the seller whether the repair was done and look for it on the product.
General information only, not safety, medical or legal advice. See our terms. Always follow the official recall notice.