Thrift stores can be treasure troves of unique finds and budget-friendly bargains, but not everything on their shelves is worth purchasing. While many items can be perfectly safe and functional, there are certain things you should always steer clear of for reasons ranging from hygiene concerns to potential safety hazards.
To help you navigate the aisles of your local thrift shop, here are 15 things you never want to buy at a thrift store.
Mattresses
Mattresses are a big no-no when it comes to thrift store shopping. Besides hygiene concerns, used mattresses can harbor allergens, bed bugs, and other unwanted pests. Additionally, they may have worn-out springs or structural damage, leading to discomfort and poor sleep quality.
Underwear and Intimate Apparel
Hygiene is paramount when it comes to personal clothing items, especially underwear. Even if they appear to be in good condition, second-hand underwear can pose health risks due to bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens that may linger despite washing.
Helmets
Safety should never be compromised, so helmets are best-purchased brand new. Thrift store helmets may have hidden damage or wear and tear that compromises their protective capabilities. When it comes to protecting your noggin, investing in a new, properly certified helmet is always the wisest choice.
Cribs and Baby Gear
When it comes to your little one’s safety, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Cribs and other baby gear from thrift stores may not meet current safety standards or could have been recalled due to defects. Potential hazards like lead paint, sharp edges, or loose parts make buying second-hand baby items a gamble not worth taking.
Electronics with No Return Policy
While thrift stores often carry a variety of electronics at discounted prices, it’s crucial to avoid purchasing items without a return policy. Without the option to test the device or return it if it doesn’t work, you could end up with a non-functional gadget that’s not worth the money you paid for it.
Stuffed Animals
Stuffed animals may seem innocent enough, but they can harbor dust mites, allergens, and even mold if not properly cleaned and maintained. Additionally, used stuffed toys may have loose parts or damage that poses choking hazards, especially for young children.
Car Seats
Just like helmets, car seats are vital safety equipment that should always be purchased new. Second-hand car seats may have been in accidents, expired, or lack important safety features. Ensuring your child’s safety during car rides is non-negotiable, making new car seats the only option.
Makeup and Beauty Products
Buying used makeup or beauty products from a thrift store is a recipe for skin irritation, infections, and allergic reactions. These products may have expired, been contaminated, or have unknown ingredients that could harm your skin. For the sake of your skin’s health and safety, it’s best to stick to new, unopened cosmetics.
Swimsuits
Swimsuits are intimate apparel that should be purchased new to ensure proper hygiene and fit. Second-hand swimsuits may have stretched-out elastic, faded colors, or hidden damage, compromising their integrity. Plus, the thought of wearing something that’s been intimately close to someone else’s body isn’t exactly appealing.
Upholstered Furniture with Stains or Odors
While thrift stores may offer great furniture deals, inspecting upholstered pieces carefully is essential. Furniture with stains, odors, or signs of pest infestation should be avoided, as these issues may be difficult or impossible to remediate fully. Bringing home a smelly or stained sofa could become costly and time-consuming to clean or replace.
Hats and Headgear
Sharing headwear may seem harmless, but it can actually spread lice, bacteria, and fungi. Second-hand hats and headgear may also lose their shape or integrity over time, compromising their fit and comfort. To keep your scalp and hair healthy, opt for new hats and headgear instead.
Kitchen Appliances without Testing
While thrift stores often have a selection of bargain-priced kitchen appliances, testing them before purchasing is essential. Without the ability to verify that they’re in working order, you risk bringing home a non-functional appliance that’s just taking up space in your kitchen.
VHS Tapes and Cassette Tapes
While vintage media formats like VHS tapes and cassette tapes may hold nostalgic value, they often degrade over time, leading to poor audio or video quality. Additionally, thrift store tapes may have been stored in less-than-ideal conditions, further accelerating their deterioration. If you want to relive the classics, consider investing in digital or remastered versions for a better viewing or listening experience.
Pet Supplies
When it comes to your furry friends, their health and safety should always come first. Second-hand pet supplies like leashes, collars, and toys may be worn out, dirty, or harbor bacteria that could harm your pet. Investing in new, quality pet supplies ensures your furry companions stay happy and healthy.
Personal Care Items
Items like toothbrushes, razors, and earbuds should always be purchased new to prevent the spread of germs and reduce the risk of infections. Used personal care items may have been exposed to bacteria, viruses, or fungi from previous owners, risking your health. Always opt for new personal care items from reputable retailers to maintain proper hygiene and prevent illness.
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Victoria Cornell helps women adopt a positive mindset even when the struggles of motherhood feel overwhelming. Victoria writes for multiple media outlets where she writes about, saving money, retirement, ways to reduce stress with mindset, manifesting, goal planning, productivity, and more.