Say No To These Second Hand Items
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As much as we love a bargain, there are some things you should never purchase second-hand. To keep yourself from car-boot carnage, follow our guide to items you should never buy already used.
2 minute read
Mattresses
Beds can be expensive, but it’s well worth the investment, especially as mattresses generally last 8-10 years before they need changing. You never know what environments second-hand beds have been in. They can be havens for bugs and mites, plus wear on the springs could mean a lack of support for your sleeping form.
Upholstered Furniture
Similarly to mattresses, upholstered furniture can be a danger zone for importing mites that you really don’t want to be around. It’s best to buy different types of furniture second hand or just buy new.
Baby Cribs
Most new parents try to save some pounds where they can, as having a baby brings a raft of expense. Whilst buying second hand clothes and toys is a great money saver, you should always buy a baby crib new. Without instruction booklets or knowledge as to whether a product has been recalled or not, the crib may not have the right safety regulations and could even be dangerous for your child.
Car Seats
You never know if a car seat has been involved in an accident before and if it has, there may be damage that is not visible to the eye, potentially endangering your child if you are ever in a road collision.
Helmets
Similarly to car seats, you can’t be sure if a helmet has been in a previous accident or not. There may not be visible damage, but the inner shell could be cracked or weakened, reducing protection. Better to be safe than sorry and buy one new!
Swimwear and Underwear
We think this one goes without saying… You can buy these items reasonably priced, brand new and with the reassuring knowledge that there hasn’t been anyone else’s parts touching your undies!
Make Up
Most make up has an expiry date of just 12 months. Buying make up second hand, even if the owners claimed to only have used it once, can spread infections like oral herpes and conjunctivitis – not really worth the risk, eh?
