Baby Gear Watch: Strollers, Car Seats, Formula and Recalls — 2026-10-23

Top developments

ADAC Autumn Test: Two Car Seats Fail Crash Safety

The German automaker club ADAC, in collaboration with Stiftung Warentest, released the results of its second 2026 child seat test. Out of 16 models tested, seven received a "good" rating, but two models failed with a grade of 5.5 ("mangelhaft") due to severe safety deficiencies in crash tests. The failing seats posed a risk of serious injury in the event of a collision, prompting an immediate warning to parents to avoid these specific models.

Consumer Reports: Danger in Secondhand Markets

A new evaluation by Consumer Reports highlights significant risks in the secondhand baby gear market. The investigation found that online marketplaces are frequently flooded with dangerous and even banned children's products, including recalled items and unsafe sleep surfaces. The report urges parents to exercise extreme caution when purchasing used gear, specifically checking for recall notices and avoiding products that lack original safety labels or instructions.

CPSC: Crib Bumper Ban Enforcement

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) continues to issue alerts regarding padded crib bumpers, which remain banned under the Safe Sleep for Babies Act. Recent recalls emphasize that these products can obstruct an infant’s breathing, posing a risk of suffocation. Consumers are advised to immediately discard any padded bumpers, regardless of whether they are labeled as "mesh" or "ventilated," if they contain padding that could cover a baby's nose and mouth.

Local view

German Media Focus on Crash Test Failures

German media outlets are widely covering the ADAC test results, with Der Spiegel and RTL emphasizing the "life-threatening" nature of the two failed seats. Spiegel advises parents to look for specific safety indicators and warns against buying used seats that lack clear certification or have been involved in prior accidents. The coverage highlights that while many seats offer good protection, the two failing models represent a critical hazard.

Japan: E-Mark Verification for Online Car Seats

Japanese media, including DiscoveryMedia, is reporting on the importance of verifying the "E-mark" certification for child seats purchased online. With the rise of unverified products on international e-commerce platforms, authorities are urging consumers to ensure that imported or online-purchased seats meet Japanese safety standards. The report explains the mechanism for removal requests of non-compliant products from online marketplaces.

Context & numbers

• US Side-Impact Rule Deadline: Manufacturers must comply with the new FMVSS 213a side-impact testing rule by December 5, 2026. This regulation will require seats to pass side-impact tests, potentially reducing the maximum weight limit for some infant seats to 30 pounds.
• EU Test Failures: An EU-organized campaign earlier in 2026 revealed that 7 out of 9 child car seats failed dynamic testing requirements (crash tests) under UN Regulation No. 129.
• ADAC Test Distribution: In the latest ADAC test, 50% of the 16 tested seats received a "good" rating, while the remaining models were rated "satisfactory" or lower. Only one seat was found to be completely free of harmful substances.

On the radar

• Japan's New Bed Guard Regulations: Starting July 8, 2026 (Reiwa 8), new regulations under the Consumer Product Safety Act (PSA) apply to infant bed guards and strollers, requiring adherence to specific technical standards.
• Thule Bag Expo Appearance: Thule will showcase new baby gear accessories at the FIELDSTYLE EXPO 2026 in Japan, announced by Zett Inc.