How to dispose of a stroller depends on whether it is still safe to use. A working stroller that has not been recalled can be sold, handed down, or donated. A broken or recalled stroller should be taken apart so the metal frame can be scrapped and the fabric and plastic trashed. Making a recalled stroller unusable keeps it from ending up back in use.
Check for recalls
Look up the brand and model number on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission site or the manufacturer’s website. The model number and manufacture date are usually on a label on the frame. Recalls for hinges, brakes, or folding mechanisms are common. Some recalls offer a free fix kit, so check before you dispose of it.
Selling or donating
- Online marketplaces and consignment shops resell strollers in good condition.
- Family and friends with new babies.
- Charities and pregnancy resource centers, though some decline used baby gear for safety reasons.
- Thrift stores, which may accept strollers but not car seats.
Clean the fabric and wheels, and include manuals, cup holders, and rain covers.
Taking a stroller apart
- Remove the fabric seat and canopy. Most snap or zip off.
- Pull off wheels, which often pop off with a button.
- Remove the basket, trays, and plastic parts.
- Separate the frame, which is usually aluminum or steel.
Where each part goes
| Part | Destination |
|---|---|
| Aluminum or steel frame | Scrap metal |
| Fabric seat and canopy | Textile recycling if accepted, otherwise trash |
| Plastic wheels and trays | Trash in most areas |
| Foam handles | Trash |
| Batteries in electronic strollers | Battery recycling |
A magnet distinguishes steel, which sticks, from aluminum, which does not.
Travel systems and car seats
Many strollers come with a car seat. Car seats have expiration dates and should not be reused after a crash. They are handled separately, and some retailers hold occasional car seat trade-in events. Cut the straps on an expired car seat so it cannot be reused.
Making recalled strollers unusable
If you are throwing out a recalled or broken stroller, remove the wheels and cut the fabric seat so it cannot be picked up from the curb and used. Label it “broken” if leaving it for bulky pickup.
How to dispose of a stroller FAQ
Can I donate a used stroller?
Often, if it is clean, complete, and not recalled. Some charities decline used baby gear.
How do I check if my stroller is recalled?
Search the brand and model number on the CPSC website or the manufacturer’s site.
Can strollers be recycled?
The aluminum or steel frame can be scrapped. Fabric and plastic parts usually go in the trash.
Can I put a stroller in bulk trash?
Many cities accept strollers in bulky pickup. Disable recalled strollers first.
What do I do with the car seat from a travel system?
Handle it separately. Check its expiration date and look for car seat recycling or trade-in events.
The bottom line
How to dispose of a stroller: check recalls first, sell or donate safe strollers, and take apart broken or recalled ones, scrapping the metal frame and trashing fabric and plastic parts. Handle car seats separately, and make recalled gear unusable.
Guides and tools
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