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8 Things You Should Never Buy Used

Yard Sale

Everyone is looking for bargains these days. They often find them at garage sales, yard sales, consignment shops, and thrift stores. Sometimes you can find fantastic prices on used items but there are risks involved. Here are 8 things you should never buy used anywhere:

#1 - Bike helmets
Especially if you are buying for your children, used bike helmets may not be safe. Latent defects not visible to the naked eye may make them risky and unable to properly protect your children.

#2 - Baby cribs
Baby cribs fall into the same category. Unless you absolutely know what you are looking for in the way of defects, don't risk your child's safety on a used crib that could put your child in danger.

#3 - Shoes
Worn shoes at secondhand stores were already broken in by the previous owner, so they look good on the outside but can quickly become uncomfortable on your feet.

#4 - Non-stick cookware
Be very careful about buying non-stick cookware, especially cheaper brands. The coating tends to wear off, and guess where all those harmful chemicals are going to go?

#5 - Mattresses and pillows
Just two words will keep you from ever buying these items used -- bedbugs and mold.

#6 - Vacuum cleaners
Vacuum cleaners are one of the most used appliance in the house, which means they have probably taken a beating by the time they meet you. This is one item best purchased new.

#7 - Laptops
Laptop computers are more expensive than desktops, but resist buying one used. Even small defects become bigger over time.

#8 - Hats
One word: lice


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