Buying items second-hand can be a great way to save money, but some purchases are best made new for reasons of safety, hygiene, or performance. Here are 27 things you should think twice about before buying them used.
Car Seats
Used car seats may have unknown histories, which could include accidents that compromise their safety. Safety standards also change, and older seats might not meet current guidelines.
Helmets
Helmets for biking, motorcycling, or sports lose their protective capability after an impact, even if there’s no visible damage. A second-hand helmet may not provide adequate protection.
Mattresses
Used mattresses can harbor bed bugs, dust mites, and bodily fluids. The cost and effort of cleaning them thoroughly often outweigh the savings.
Shoes
Shoes that have been molded to another person’s feet can cause discomfort and foot problems. Additionally, worn-out soles can lead to a lack of support and increased risk of injury.
Makeup
Used makeup can harbor bacteria and lead to skin infections. The risk of transferring infections like conjunctivitis or herpes simplex virus is higher with second-hand makeup.
Undergarments
For hygiene reasons, it’s advisable to buy undergarments new. Second-hand underwear and swimwear can retain bacteria and other microbes, even after washing.
Child Strollers
Strollers undergo wear and tear that may not be immediately visible. Used strollers may also not meet current safety standards or could have been recalled.
Swimwear
Swimwear suffers from wear and tear and can lose its elasticity. Buying new ensures both hygiene and the proper fit.
Pet Products
Items like pet beds and chew toys can host pests like fleas or ticks and should be bought new to ensure the health and safety of your pet.
Vacuum Cleaners
Used vacuum cleaners may have diminished suction power and hidden dirt and allergens. Newer models are also more likely to have better technology and efficiency.
Cribs
Cribs should meet current safety standards, which might not be the case with older models. Used cribs can also have wear and tear that compromises their stability and safety.
Laptops
Second-hand laptops may have limited battery life and outdated specifications. They might also have hidden issues that are not immediately apparent.
Cookware with Non-Stick Coating
Non-stick coatings can flake and wear off over time, potentially mixing into food during cooking. This can pose health risks, making new cookware a safer choice.
Plasma TVs
Plasma TVs can suffer from burn-in and have a shorter lifespan compared to modern LED or OLED TVs. They are also less energy-efficient.
Upholstered Furniture
Like mattresses, upholstered furniture can contain allergens, pests, and odors. The cost of professional cleaning might exceed the savings from buying second-hand.
Bike Helmets
Similar to other types of helmets, bike helmets are designed to protect against one impact and may not be safe if they’ve been in a previous accident.
Child Booster Seats
As with car seats, used booster seats for children may not meet current safety standards or could have been involved in accidents, making them unreliable in terms of safety.
Smoke Detectors
Used smoke detectors may not function properly due to age or wear. For safety, it’s best to buy new detectors that comply with current standards.
Electronics with Rechargeable Batteries
Devices with rechargeable batteries, like smartphones or tablets, have a limited battery life. These batteries degrade over time, reducing their efficiency and longevity.
Blenders and Food Processors
These kitchen appliances can wear down with use, leading to reduced performance. Blades can become dull, and motors may not be as efficient.
Software or Digital Media
Buying software or digital media second-hand can be risky, as licenses may not be transferable, or the media might be outdated.
Tires
Used tires may have reduced tread life and unseen damage, compromising their safety and performance.
Personal Care Items
Items like electric toothbrushes or razors should be bought new for hygiene reasons. Used personal care items can harbor bacteria and skin cells.
Safety Gear for Sports
Safety equipment like knee pads, elbow pads, and life jackets may have reduced efficacy due to wear and tear. Their materials can degrade over time.
Baby Bottles
Used baby bottles can have scratches or cloudiness where bacteria can grow. It’s safer to buy new bottles to ensure they are clean and free from damage.
Water Filters
Used water filters are likely to have diminished filtering capability. New filters ensure better water quality and are more hygienic.
Bed Pillows
Pillows accumulate dust mites, skin cells, and body oils over time. For hygiene and comfort, it’s better to purchase new pillows.
READ MORE – 22 THINGS THAT SCREAM ‘I’M EX-MILITARY”
Military training often engrains some odd habits that stay with members for life. An internet survey recently asked, “What screams “I’m ex-military?” Here are the top 22 responses.
22 THINGS THAT SCREAM ‘I’M EX-MILITARY”
21 OBSOLETE COMPANIES THAT PEOPLE ARE SURPRISED STILL EXIST
Companies come and go, but some manage to stay open longer than expected. A recent internet survey asked, “What obsolete companies are you surprised are still holding on in the modern world?” Here are the top 21 answers.
21 OBSOLETE COMPANIES THAT PEOPLE ARE SURPRISED STILL EXIST
20 HAIRCUTS THAT WOMEN OVER 60 SHOULD NEVER GET
As we journey through different stages of life, our hair transforms as well. What looked fabulous in our 20s and 30s might not be the most flattering option now. And let’s face it, nobody wants to look like they’re stuck in a time warp! So, as a tribute to the age of wisdom and elegance, let’s explore 20 haircuts that women over 60 should never get. It’s all about embracing the changes and looking your absolute best!
20 HAIRCUTS THAT WOMEN OVER 60 SHOULD NEVER GET
THE BOOMERS CALLED IT: 19 STUPID TRENDS THAT BACKFIRED
There’s no denying that Millennials have fallen for some pretty questionable gadgets, much to the amusement of the Boomer generation. In this post, we’re diving into 17 gadgets Millennials bought into that made boomers laugh.
THE BOOMERS CALLED IT: 19 STUPID TRENDS THAT BACKFIRED
20 THINGS THAT WEREN’T CONSIDERED LUXURIES 20–30 YEARS AGO (BUT ARE NOW)
Times change, and some of us are old enough to remember how much. Some things that were seen as affordable or reasonable a few decades ago are now luxury items kept as a rare treat, only exist in certain instances (or not at all), or are reserved for the wealthy. One internet user recently inquired, “What was normal 20–30 years ago but is considered a luxury now?” Here are the top 20 replies:
20 THINGS THAT WEREN’T CONSIDERED LUXURIES 20–30 YEARS AGO (BUT ARE NOW)
