10 Items People Absolutely Refuse To Purchase Secondhand
Some things are totally fine to buy used. Others? Hard no. While secondhand shopping can be a budget-saver, there are certain items most people agree are better left on the shelf. Whether it’s about hygiene, safety, or plain old comfort, here are ten things people just won’t touch unless they’re brand new.
Bathing Suits and Lingerie
Let’s be honest—some things are just too personal. Bathing suits and lingerie fall solidly in that category. Even if they look clean, it’s hard to feel comfortable wearing something that’s been that close to someone else’s body. When it comes to undergarments or anything made to fit snug against your skin, most people don’t want to take the risk.
Pacifiers
Pacifiers might be small, but they go straight into a baby’s mouth. No amount of boiling or disinfecting feels worth the gamble for most parents. These items are cheap enough to buy new, and knowing they haven’t been used by another child brings peace of mind.
Breast Pumps
Unless it’s a closed system that prevents milk particles from getting inside, breast pumps can be tricky to sanitize completely. Older models often aren’t designed to be shared, and buying secondhand can carry risks you can’t see. For something that involves your baby’s food supply, it’s worth being cautious.
Headphones and Ear Buds
Some people are okay with over-ear headphones, but anything that goes in your ears? That’s usually a no-go. Earwax and bacteria can build up, and even with replacement tips, it’s hard to unsee the ick factor. Most would rather just buy them new.
Keyboards
Used keyboards might seem harmless, but once you’ve seen what’s under the keys, you may change your mind. Crumbs, hair, mystery gunk—it adds up fast. Even if they still work, many people prefer not to think about someone else’s desk habits while typing.
Couches
Used couches might be a great deal, but they can also be a hidden nightmare. Bed bugs, pet dander, and other surprises can be lurking deep in the cushions. You can’t always see the problem until it’s too late—and then you’re stuck with an expensive pest control bill.
Mattresses
Mattresses are another big one. You don’t know where they’ve been, who’s slept on them, or what’s hiding inside. Bed bugs, mold, and stains are just the start. A mattress might look clean, but it’s one of those things many folks just don’t feel right buying secondhand.
Underwear
This probably isn’t surprising. For most people, the idea of wearing someone else’s underwear is just…no. It’s one of the most personal items of clothing, and even if it’s never been worn, the secondhand label is usually enough to make people pass.
Helmets
Helmets are designed to protect your head—once they’ve taken a hit, they’re not as effective. That’s why safety experts recommend buying new. You can’t always tell if a helmet has been damaged, and it’s not worth risking your safety just to save a few bucks.
Carseats
Car seats have expiration dates and safety standards that change over time. If a seat’s been in an accident, even a minor one, it may not protect properly anymore. Unless it’s from someone you trust and you know the full history, most people say it’s safer to buy new.
Sometimes New Is Just Better
Thrifting is smart, but not everything belongs in the secondhand pile. With some items, especially the ones tied to hygiene or safety, it’s just not worth the risk. When in doubt, go new—and save the bargain hunting for things that are a little less personal.
This article first appeared on Happy From Home.
