I love a good thrift store bargain. But even as someone who loves thrifting, there are certain things I won’t buy used, no matter how tempting the price.
Some items come with safety concerns, hygiene issues, or hidden problems that aren’t obvious at first glance. Here are 8 things I’d rather buy new and spend a little more on.
Used bike helmets
A bicycle helmet might look perfectly fine, but there’s no way to know whether it’s been involved in an accident or has hidden damage. Since helmets are designed to absorb impact, I’d rather buy a new one than risk something meant to protect my head.
Baby car seats
Car seats can have hidden damage from previous accidents, missing parts, or expiration dates that make them unsuitable for continued use. Unless I personally know and trust the previous owner and can verify the seat’s history, I’d rather buy new.
Used underwear
Some things are better bought new, and underwear is definitely one of them. No matter how clean it looks or how cheap it is, I’m not interested in bringing home previously worn underwear.
Related: 8 Sustainable Ways to Get Rid of Old Bras
Mattresses
Mattresses can hide bed bugs, stains, odors, and years of accumulated dirt that a quick inspection won’t always reveal. Since they’re difficult to clean thoroughly, I’d rather pay more for a new mattress than risk bringing home an expensive problem.
Opened makeup and skincare products
Once makeup or skincare products are opened, you can’t know how they’ve been handled, stored, or contaminated. Even an expensive brand isn’t worth the risk of using something that could irritate your skin or cause an infection.
Used pillows
Pillows absorb sweat, oils, and allergens over time, and many can’t be thoroughly washed without damaging the filling. I’m happy to thrift washable bedding, but I’d rather replace pillows with something new.
Heavily worn shoes
Shoes gradually mold to the previous owner’s feet, and worn-out soles or uneven heels can affect their comfort and support. I’ll happily buy a barely worn pair of quality shoes, but anything showing significant wear stays on the shelf.
Stuffed animals that can’t be washed
Stuffed animals can collect dust, allergens, dirt, and potentially pests, especially if you don’t know where they were stored. If a plush toy can’t be safely washed and thoroughly dried, I’d rather leave it behind.
