Buying Second Hand? Ensure Your Purchases Are Still Safe!
Want to know a random tidbit about me? I love yard sales, thrift stores, and eBay. I am a total deal junkie!
There is just something about finding an old piece of furniture that I can transform into something new and unique that really appeals to me. I love thinking that each piece has a story and a history instead of just coming out of a warehouse. The money savings are great too… especially in this economy.
My family, just like yours is doing the best we can to save as much money as possible. One great way to do that is shop second hand for more than just great furniture finds. I have been picking up some great deals on second hand clothes, shoes, and even toys for my kids at consignment shops, eBay, and yard sales. My children have started enjoying this favorite hobby of mine, they like to go with me and see what fun toys they can find.
Buying these items, definitely saves us some money but it does present a safety concern that I have had to address in our family. When you are purchasing items like toys or clothing second hand you have a job to educate yourself to ensure the safety of you and your children.
The first thing I did was go to the USRecallNews website. It linked me to the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s comprehensive list of recalled toys since 1975. This site also allowed me to put my email address in and subscribe to regular updates about any new market recalls with toys and children’s items. By doing this I am able to stay up to date on toys and items that are not safe for my children.
Most consignment and second hand stores check donated or purchased items against these recall lists before reselling them but you will want to ask what their policy is and be informed yourself. Also items sold in yard sales or on eBay… are not normally checked against recall lists, so it is up to you as the parent and consumer to be informed.
Also keep in mind that if you are buying a toy or larger item second hand you will not have the owner’s manual, or packaging normally. You can email the manufacturer and ask them to send you a replacement manual so that you will know what the appropriate ages of use are, safety precautions, and other important information.
You are the first line of defense for your family, so you need to inspect all second hand items carefully to make sure that pieces are not broken, loose, or dangerous for your children’s ages. When buying second hand clothing for yourself or your kids, be sure to check all pockets… I have heard stories of some scary stuff being found in the pockets of items bought at consignment stores and yard sales. Inspect before you buy!
By following these few simple guidelines you will be able to help your family save money and remain safe at the same time. If you have other tips on things to consider before buying items second hand, please feel free to post them here.
Happy and Safe Bargain hunting everyone!
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January 31st, 2009 at 11:42 pm
I know a lot of my friends who have started shopping for baby toys at garage sales. I’ve been to a lot of consignment shops myself recently, and have considered joining their “garage sale group”. Thanks for the tips about toy safety. I’d worried about the toys being clean, missing pieces, and more, but your article brought up another great point I need to be concerned about.