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Preparing essential items for the birth of a baby is one of the happiest moments for parents. However, it will also bring a financial burden.
Many parents have thought about buying back used baby items to save money. This idea is excellent; however, a few things shouldn’t be reused.
Let’s explore what you should buy new and what you can buy used for your upcoming baby.
The Best Baby Items to Buy Used
Before learning about the baby items that you shouldn’t buy when they’re used, try to learn about the stuff you can buy.
You can find them in secondhand stores or get them back in the family’s hand-me-down tradition. Save these items and send them back to the baby; the experience will be wonderful.
1. Baby Clothes
Newborns can gain weight quickly. If you do not pay attention, their clothes will quickly become tight.
Many mothers experience a reality that the baby will probably grow faster before wearing the clothes you have prepared. Children’s clothes are often used very gently, so buying second-hand clothes is exceptionally suitable.
You can look for posts with NWT tag, “new with tags,” or NWOT, “new without tags.” These items still look very new, quality but much cheaper than buying from the store.
Follow a mother to buy secondhand baby clothes in the following video.
2. Toys
Wooden or plastic toys can last for decades. You can give them to your baby to play with; just make sure to disinfect them carefully.
Over time, the price tag for toys can add up, and they’re also prone to damage. Therefore, investing in entirely new items is a rather wasteful idea.
You also won’t guess what kind of toys your baby likes. Many kids have an interest in expensive tech toys. At the same time, some are just passionate about playing with classic toys.
3. Cloth Diapers
It might sound a little creepy to learn that cloth diapers are reusable baby stuff, but they’re actually incredibly safe. There are products that many different babies have used.
Mothers who choose cloth diapers over disposable diapers are environmentally conscious and their financial situation. Therefore, the use of used cloth diapers is also a reasonable proposition.
Quite a few Facebook groups gather people who specialize in buying and selling used cloth diapers a few times.
The problem of sterilization is a remarkable one. To ensure the bacteria are destroyed, don’t forget to soak the diaper in bleach for about half an hour.
4. Changing Table
By buying a gently-used dressing table, you will save a considerable amount of money. Please check the goods before receiving them. You should ensure that the device still has its parts, safety strap, and not too many scratches.
If space is limited, consider using a changing pad to create a temporary changing station.
5. Bathtub
It’s perfectly normal to buy used bathtubs as long as they don’t have mold.
Newborns grow up very quickly and can surpass the size of the tub you have prepared. So, don’t waste your money on a product you rarely use.
However, stay away from inflatable basins and bath rings that fit the tub. They can be dangerous to the baby.
6. High Chairs
With high chairs, you can rest assured that they do not contain too many potential dangers.
The essentials for choosing a second-hand high chair are sturdiness, a three-point harness, and a crotch protector. It will prevent the child from slipping off the bottom.
Another note is that this chair is only suitable for children under ten years old.
Baby Things You Should Never Buy Used
The items above are baby gears that you can buy second-hand or pass on for generations. On the other hand, some things should only be personal and are better not shared with other mothers or children. These include:
1. Car Seats
There are two reasons why you shouldn’t accept heirloom car seats or repurchase them from a thrift store.
Firstly, all baby car seats have their expiry date. You will not be able to guarantee whether the product you have purchased is up to date and safe for your baby.
Secondly, you won’t know if the car seat came from an accident car. Unless you know its previous owner, no one will tell you.
Visual inspection also cannot completely solve the problem. Even when a product looks fine, it can still contain weak links.
Always buy new baby car seats. This advice also applies to products that have suffered moderate or severe accidents.
2. Baby Cribs
Along with car seats, cribs are products that you should never buy second-hand. The price tag for a quality crib is steep, but it comes with promises of safety.
The drop-down style used to cause many child injuries years ago, and it has been completely banned until now. You’ll sometimes find them at thrift stores, but don’t be tempted.
In addition to safety concerns, you may not clearly understand how the previous owner used the product.
It may be missing some parts that you overlook. Another thought is that the load is so great that it weakens the structure. Either way, buying an old crib is a wrong decision.
3. Crib Mattress
Crib mattresses are typically used for two to three years. That time is long enough to create wear and tear and a breeding ground for bacteria.
Opt for a new mattress instead of risking your baby’s health to save some money.
4. Breast Pump
A breast pump is an expensive piece of equipment. However, used feed pumps carry the potential for cross-contamination.
Newborns do not deserve to be exposed to bacteria or pathogens. If you are concerned about your financial situation, contact the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) to get a free breast pump from your insurance.
5. Infant Formula
At around $20 a can, infant formula is one of the most expensive baby items on the list. You can search for used cans of formula on online sites. However, the health and hygiene risks are enormous.
Appropriate storage space for this milk is in a dry place, with a temperature between 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. If someone leaves a can of milk on the shelf next to the oven or refrigerator overnight, the milk will degrade and spoil.
Luckily, you can save money buying powdered formula at the store versus buying it in-brand. It still ensures enough nutrients for the baby.
6. Strollers Before 2015
Never buy a stroller made before 2015 as safety standards have been updated. In addition, you should also check the recalls of the models you are interested in.
The easiest way without spending much time is to buy a new stroller. It will undoubtedly be a worthwhile investment.
7. Play Yard
Like a crib, a playground can be subjected to a lot of force during use. You should choose a new product instead of testing a worn-out one.
Where to Buy Second Hand Baby Stuff?
Consignment store
The age of technology opens up a lot of space for you to shop for used baby items, especially online markets.
The Facebook Marketplace is where you can find lots of cheap toys for kids. For those looking for used books or clothes, Kidizen is an app of interest.
In addition, mothers can follow Instagram or Facebook accounts specializing in selling these used products. Other websites and apps include:
- eBay
- Craigslist
- Poshmark
- thredUP
- Mercari
- OfferUp
Visit your local consignment store for those wanting to pick out the best baby gear for themselves. Chances are, you will choose the cutest items.
Tips for Buying Used Baby Gears
Before you embark on shopping and choosing the right products, keep in mind some helpful shopping tips below. They will help you make the best choices.
1. Check The Safety
Safety is the most important concern when buying used baby gear. Before giving money to the seller, check the following factors:
- The model’s number: Ensure this product is not part of the recalled lot.
- Condition: Make sure the equipment you purchase is not missing any details and is still in good working order.
- Instruction manual: You need it to check the manufacturing date and use the device properly. You can find the manual online if you know the product’s serial number.
2. Confirm Sale Dates
Many children’s items appear in the store year-round, while others change with the seasons. So, be aware while scouring the online marketplaces. You can get similar deals when you go to retailers.
3. Take A Look At The Warranty
The warranty will not cover some old products that you buy. Therefore, you will not be able to return them if any damage occurs.
Discontinued products will also have no warranty. You can also search for any recalls with the product name or model number to ensure no bad luck occurs.
4. Shop Around
Don’t buy the first item you see. A good tip is to walk around and evaluate similar items. Sometimes, you will save a lot of money if you know how to be patient.
Conclusion
Hopefully, our article has helped you differentiate the things that you should buy used and the ones you need to invest in. Why should we figure out the reason? The ultimate goal remains the health and safety of the baby.
Don’t forget to share this article if you find it useful. Thank you for reading!
