Everybody seems to be enjoying secondhand shopping these days for several reasons. Well, for one, you’ll get some unique finds without even spending a lot. That’s what makes secondhand items a tempting option for budget-conscious shoppers. But no matter how good it is to find some hidden treasure in a thrift store, you should know there are risks when buying used items. You might want to ask yourself some important questions first, like if you really need “it” or if you just find it cute, and therefore you can let it go. To help you further in your decision-making, here’s the list of 10 things you should never buy used:
1. Underwear & Swimwear
For some very obvious reasons, underwear, and swimwear are items that you need to buy new and not used. These are something very personal that come in contact with the prior owner’s privates, so it’s hygienically concerning. If, for some reason, you find these items in a thrift store, make sure not to even look at them before you compromise yourself that it’s okay to buy them since it’s nice and cheap anyway. If, in the event, you really can’t let it go, make sure that you wash it properly in hot water before even using it.
2. Baby Items
Babies, especially newborns, are the most health-sensitive and must be given the highest attention and care. This means that secondhand baby items are to be avoided automatically. Bottles, clothing, cribs, and bedding are some things you should never buy used for your little ones. These items might have recalled concerns that are not good for babies. These can also have wear and tear issues or outdated standards that can compromise the safety of your babies. You don’t want the secondhand dangers of unknown germs, bacteria, and allergies from used cribs, bedding, or car seats. So, for your peace of mind, avoid buying used items for your precious little ones.
3. Medicines
Understandably, you want to save more; that’s why you’re considering buying secondhand medicines. But saving more doesn’t mean getting what’s right for you. If you buy secondhand medicines because they’re not expired, you may be forgetting other essential factors why you shouldn’t. Number one is the incorrect dosage. Second is its possible contamination with bacteria, fungi, and other foreign substances that may have an adverse chemical reaction to that particular medicine. Third is the assumption that what can make the other person feel better can make you feel the same. That’s not how it works, considering the differences in medical history. Lastly, when it comes to medicine, you know that you should always consult your healthcare professional before anything else. Failure to do this might mean that you didn’t save more but spent so much more than you should.
4. Makeup and Cosmetics
I get it. You want to look good so you can feel good. But you’re also on a budget; that’s why you’re considering buying secondhand makeup and cosmetics. Think twice and ask yourself if that’s even safe for you. Experts say it’s a bad idea to buy secondhand cosmetic products since you don’t know what it might contact before it gets to you. For all you know, someone who used that eyeliner before you had an eye infection. The same goes for lipsticks and foundations that can easily cause your skin breakouts and irritations. Remember to invest in something brand new if you want to look good by putting your makeup on.
5. Stuffed Animals
Would you buy and let your kids hug a stuffed animal when you don’t even know where it came from? I hope not because it can be a carrier of germs, bacteria, and dust mites that pose serious health concerns. Even if you plan on washing it, it can still be a safety hazard because it might contain materials that are not safe for kids. It may also have loose parts that can cause choking hazards for younger kids. No matter how cute stuffed animals can be, these are some of the things you should never buy used, especially because store-bought stuffed animals will not cost you a lot either.
6. Mattresses and Bedding
A good bed is necessary for a good sleep. Buying secondhand mattresses is significantly economical compared to buying new ones. Many people are considering it because of the potential high quality due to minimal use. But you should not forget that mattresses and bedding are items best bought as new for hygiene concerns. There’s the bodily fluid of its former owner aside from the fact that it can harbor allergens, dust mites, and bed bugs. At the same time, old mattresses can’t provide longevity anymore like a new one does. Sometimes, you have to spoil yourself by buying nice things that will comfort you, like a brand-new mattress.
7. Helmets
If it concerns your safety, it’s always best to buy brand-new items that will give you the security that you need. That means that a helmet is one of the things you should never buy used. Hidden damage from an accident you don’t know about can pose serious safety concerns. Over time, the materials used in a helmet can degrade, especially when it’s exposed to extreme weather conditions. This thing can affect the protective property of the helmet. Just like any material made from any fabric, it may harbor germs, fungal infections, and lice.
8. Appliances
You think buying secondhand appliances is a good option because it’s budget-friendly. But do you know that it’s a common misconception and that it might have caused you more in the long run than it should? Secondhand appliances might not be as efficient as brand-new items and may have hidden defects that are not apparent in the beginning. And because it’s not brand new, you do not have a maintenance record, which means you also do not have a warranty. The lack of warranty means you have to spend for the repair that costs more than what you bought it for. You have to carefully consider these things before buying secondhand appliances.
9. Nonstick Cookware
It’s never a good thing to buy second-hand non-stick cookware because of the health hazards these pose. For starters, the black layer that makes pans non-stick is made of Teflon materials. These materials, popularly known as “forever chemicals,” harm fertility, sometimes our lungs, and can cause flu-like symptoms. Saving money is the objective for buying second-hand cookware, but if it will cause you more harm to your health, then you need to ultimately ask yourself if it is worth the trouble versus buying brand new non-stick cookware. Often, err on the side of safety, and it will give you more bang for your buck.
10. Plastic Containers
Plastic containers are useful for many things, but there are several things that you must consider when you’re buying such items, especially if these “hand-me-downs” will be used to store food. First, consider the plastic-grade material you will be getting the used plastic container item from. Is it food-grade? Food-grade plastics have number indicators under each one. Number indicators “1”, “2”, “4”, and “5” are the safest. Second, consider the container’s “past life.” Even if the item you will get is food-grade and branded, you will still have to know where the item was used. You should never second-guess when it comes to your personal or family’s health.
Know the Risks Before Buying Secondhand Items
There’s nothing wrong with buying secondhand items, especially if you are on a budget. But remember that buying secondhand items is not always a good option when it concerns your health and safety. Always keep in mind these things you should never buy used.