I know the car seat is something we'll want to purchase new, and I'd like to get a new crib and dresser - but apart from that, is there anything we might regret buying used? (I'm speaking of safe, up-to-date stuff, of course.)
2007-03-21 11:49:26 · 10 answers · asked by writerchik 2 in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Newborn & Baby
Never buy a used mattress. Clothing is a great thing to buy used, small babies can't really do anything other than spit up on them (which washes away fine) and they grow out of them so fast that used baby clothing may as well be brand new. Personally I wouldn't buy a used stroller if it's going to be used alot, simply because the wheels and folding joints wear out and stiffen up quickly (though I should mention that I walk much more than average, and own four strollers so that I'll always have one no matter where I go). Besides, if you plan to buy a car seat, you're better off buying a travel system (infant car seat and stroller that it locks into) because they are a huge convenience for small infants. Obviously you wouldn't want used bottles (at least the nipples) or pacifiers either. For the remainder, I suppose it just comes down to how used it is, and what shape it's currently in. When it comes to swings, highchairs ect, don't just look at how clean and bright the cloth looks. Check out the metal/plastic parts, how well it functions, folds, whether it seems stiff or weak ect. Good luck and happy shopping.
2007-03-21 12:03:46 · answer #1 · answered by Nev 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Do not purchase a walker, they are dangerous. A bassinet is sort of a waste b/c the baby isn't in it for long. A play yard is a life saver. Especially for sleepovers (my 2 year old still uses it when he stays at grandma's). Baby monitors are so-so. If you work outside a lot or the baby's bedroom is secluded from the rest of the house, then one would be a good idea...if not, you'll definitely hear the baby crying without one! I do not like using the baby gowns b/c the baby kicks and works the gown up and they get chilly. A sleeping sack is a great idea so blankets don't have to be used. I think bumper pads are a bad idea. A play mat for tummy time and so you can get a break is a nice accessory. Most clothes are fine as hand me downs (watch for loose buttons) Make sure nothing has a string longer then 3 inches. Anything more can cause strangulation. Ummm.....have I covered most everything? ;)
2007-03-21 11:57:28 · answer #2 · answered by I <3 my boys 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Anything second hand is going to save you heaps in the long run. Obviously you don't want to get anything that is too old though. Like all cots have to meet safety requirements, so if it looks older than about 10 years I wouldn't be getting it.
We got given a second hand car seat, and it was fine, but it came from family so we knew it was looked after and still a safe one to have.
With a new baby you want new things and I know a lot of people who have decked their kid out with brand new stuff and really couldn't afford it. Those extra dollars come in handy when you are not at work. I know I would rather spend that money on being able to afford to be home with my little one than on some flash cot or car seat.
2007-03-21 11:56:29 · answer #3 · answered by Kylie 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Things to buy used (in good condition) are:
Strollers, Cribs, Exersaucers, Swings, Bouncers, High Chairs, Baby Carriers (backpacks, slings, etc.) and basically any other large baby item. The car seat is ok to get used, but only if you know the people you are buying from and the history of the seat.
Things to buy new are:
Bedding (mattress, blankets, sheets, pillows), clothing (some people disagree), bottles, pacifiers, infant teething toys.
My rule is that if it goes directly into my child's mouth or is in constant contact with their skin, I buy it new.
2007-03-21 12:07:00 · answer #4 · answered by Mom23 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
try this website called craigslist.com. Lots of moms sell their barely used baby stuff. I think aside from the carseat you can get everything used you just need to make sure that the stuff is safe and not too old, especially the crib. Good Luck
2007-03-21 12:00:27 · answer #5 · answered by tiffy616 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think the major things like cot, bassinet, prams etc should be new because you don't know whther they have been broken, in an accident or anything like that to void the safety features. You can buy clothes and cabinets and things like that second hand and reuse everything for your second child, but for the first, it would be safest to buy new items. For the safety of your child, it's not worth the risk.
2007-03-21 12:17:58 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would definitely buy a brand new car seat, cot mattress and stroller/pram. When buying second hand check all gear out carefully. We got our cot, change table, high chair and baby bath and stand all second hand. They were in excellent condition. It is only normal to want some new things.
Good luck and enjoy!!!!!!!
2007-03-21 12:12:13 · answer #7 · answered by hottee 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
All we purchased new was the crib mattress, carseat, and bottles if you bottle feed. We also purchased a going hom outfit brand new and are keeping it in a box for memories.
2007-03-21 12:02:31 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You seem to know your stuff. Buying used equipment saves you so much money, just check they have all the safety standards and stuff.
2007-03-21 12:43:23 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
buy used, just really check out what you are purchasing, but most things it's best to buy used
2007-03-21 11:53:08 · answer #10 · answered by melissa s 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋