Baby Gear: New or Used
Baby stuff is expensive. There is pretty much a gadget for just about everything. I completely understand why people say having a baby is expensive. You could easily spend thousands of dollars just in the first year alone.
When I was pregnant with Jude I thought that a new baby required new gear. Now, a few years later, I have a slightly better understanding of what is a “must-have” item and what’s not really worth the money. As we are preparing for baby #2 I find myself searching Craigslist for good deals on used baby gear. Most baby items are used so infrequently that even used they are in pretty good condition.
Obviously, I look for high quality items that are in excellent shape but I do have a few items I would never buy used. Pacifiers I wouldn’t buy used but I have bought used cloth diapers. However, I don’t know if I would buy used toddler underwear. Not sure why I’m OK with used diapers and not used underwear…. if anything it should be the other way around. Right?
It may sound weird but I find great satisfaction and joy in buying a top-of-the-line product for a fraction of the price simply because it was used a few times. I sometimes even feel bad for the poor soul that paid full-price for that Bumbo I paid only $1 for at a yard sale.
I’m proud of the fact that Jude’s Thomas Train Table was found on the side of the road. (In perfect condition I might add)
I love a good deal but how far is too far?
Have you paid full price for baby gear only to be disappointed by the return on your investment?
What, if any, items would you never buy used?
