Every secondhand enthusiast has that one bargain that could have gone horribly wrong.
For me, it was the couch by the dumpster outside my on-campus apartment during college.
We sure didnt check that thing for bed bugs.
It was a solid couch and nobody got a rash.
But older, wiser me wouldnt have taken a chance on a dumpster couch.
To put it simply, they are too gross.
Mattresses
Two words:Bed bugs.
Two more words: Too old!
Mattresses arent good for nearly as long as your childhood bedroom would like you to think.
Bike helmets
Two words:Head lice.
OK, Im mostly kidding.
Plus, a helmet thathassustained a crash should be tossed.
Safety rules on these necessary items change frequently, and seats often get recalled for not satisfying those requirements.
Plus, if the car seat has been in an accident, it should be retired.
Itsnot worth taking a chanceon your little ones safety.
If youve ever cut a cleaning corner, you’re able to assume everyone else has too.
Grab the spare blender from your moms next time you visit (whydoesshe have two, anyway?
), but steer clear of these items at thrift stores.
Undergarments
Best-case scenario, theyre already stretched out by the time they hit the donate pile.
Worst-case scenario…well, look.
Theyve been up in someone elses nether regions.
Its gonna be a no from me.
Bathing suits, on the other hand?
Youprobably have chlorine on your side.
If you shop secondhand swimwear, ensure the elastic is strong and the suit isnt faded.
The not-for-everyday nature of a swimsuit makes it more acceptable to buy used than underoos, in my book.
Cosmetics
Yes,people do this.
They buy and sell used cosmetics, and Im not talking about the drugstore brandsIm talking the expensive stuff.
Thrifters and secondhand shoppers, what would you add?
Whats on your no-buy list for used items?
