On Wednesday, June 17th, I’ll be doing a 17-city satellite media tour from 5:30 AM to 11:30 AM EST, discussing the best ways that new parents can keep costs in check and stretch every penny. That means I’ll be broadcasting to 17 TV stations across the US from one location, Consumer Reports. One of the topics I’ll cover is when garage sales are a good thing, and when they’re not so good. Here’s a general rule of thumb: If you buy used, the product should either be new, or look like new to you. Parents get duplicate items sometimes as shower gifts, which is why it’s very possible to find new, unused products at tag sales. You can save big by buying used clothing, a changing table, and some toys.
But there are some products you shouldn’t buy used, even if they look like new. These include cribs, play yards, soft infant carriers and car seats. That’s because safety standards on these products change all the time, so you want to make sure you’re using the most updated version. That’s what new will do for you. Plus, you’ll get the owner’s manual. When you buy new, it won’t be missing. You’ll need that for assembly and proper installation. Before you buy any new or used product, check that it hasn’t been recalled by logging onto the Consumer Product Safety Commission at www.cpsc.gov.
Tags: baby gear, baby products, used baby products