How Many of These Items Would You Not Buy Used?
It’s been hard for a lot of people to make ends meet lately. Not a political statement, just a fact. Most everyone has had to alter or abandon spending on an item or items that they used to buy on the regular.
That’s one reason my wife and I really enjoy shopping at thrift stores. You can find some really good deals on products that still have a lot of life left in them.
We have several items in our home that were purchased from a thrift store and our couch came from The Used Furniture store. And even though saving money is important, we know you can’t or shouldn’t buy certain things used. I came across a list published by AARP of twelve things that should never be bought after someone else has owned them.
Some of these things make sense, and some I disagree with. How many of these would you not buy used?
Underwear (Intimates), Swimwear & Leggings- The writer makes the point of never buying something that has come in contact with someone else’s private parts. I’m guessing the expert the article quotes doesn’t think washing in hot water will be enough to keep you from coming in contact with something you will wish you hadn’t.
Mattresses, Bedding and Pillows- A valid point is made that these items could have bed bugs, dust mites and other critters you don’t want to bring into your house.
Shoes, Boots, Slippers- The article brings up the point that there could be bacteria and other things in the shoe that could cause you some problems. But being someone who has bought shoes secondhand in the past, there are ways to protect yourself the best you can from anything harmful. Plus, who's to say that someone didn’t stick their funky feet in a brand-new pair of shoes before you buy them?
Medicine, Pills, Vitamins- I think this goes without saying. Although there are people out there who... well never mind.
Anything for a newborn baby- There may be a close to rational reason for this to be listed, but most parents at someone point have used hand me downs because baby's grow so darn fast. Washing everything first when it comes to these items would be a good first step. A lot of people buy gently used or pre-owned items for their babies.
Large Appliances, Electronics and Lamps- The main reason is that you could be inheriting someone else's problem, and that’s true. But again, as someone who has done it, I wouldn’t say “never”. Every lamp in our house came from thrift stores or garage sales. You have to pay attention, but you can find good stuff out there.
Plastic Containers- Again, this article quotes an expert who indicates there’s not enough cleaning that can be done to keep you safe from pre-owned plastic dishes. Not sure I agree with this one either.
Pot and Pans- The main reason there’s an objection to these items being purchased used is that scratches can allow toxic chemicals to leak into your food and then into you. If you choose to do this, please examine the item carefully.
Perfumes, Lotions or Cosmetics- These things are applied right on your skin and can be in your bloodstream quickly. Since you don’t know the environment that the item was in before you got it is a good enough reason to stay away.
Helmets for biking, skating and skiing- If a helmet was already used to prevent serious injury to someone else, the helmet may not be up to code anymore to keep you safe. There could also be recalls that you are likely to miss because you weren’t the original owner.
Stuffed Animals- Bedbugs and other things you don’t want in your home or close to your child can be still on the cute little toy which could present problems for you soon enough.
Vacuum's- If you can’t test it out, stay away. Also, you’ll be bringing someone else’s dirt and germs into your home and the experts say it’s not worth doing that to save money.
Again, I think it's safe to purchase some of these items, but you'll need to pay attention to what you're getting. Inspect the item very well and then make sure you clean the item once you get it home. I guess it's a good thing the internet has plenty of cleaning options available for your to choose from.
Melissa Etheridge & Jewel at The Ledge, 2024