Secondhand baby goods and product tips
Secondhand products are a great place to start, good for the budget and the environment.
Below are some considerations when purchasing secondhand baby goods.
Is the product clean with no broken parts?
Inspect the item well, pick it up and look all over if possible. If purchasing online consider requesting more photos of the item from different angles.
When you get it home you can clean the item further with some disinfectant.
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Cot considerations:
If using secondhand it is best to buy one manufactured after 2003 so it complies with the current safety standard. Antique cots, while an attractive piece of furniture and may even be a family heirloom may not adhere to safety standards and increase the risk for your baby to sleep in.
If it is a cot does the mattress fit well?
If the cot is not assembled this will be difficult to assess, ask the seller and make sure to check this as soon as possible. Many parents buy a new mattress for a second hand cot, particularly if you didn’t know the previous owners.
Are there any missing pieces such as safety harnesses?
Particularly in highchairs and prams 5 point safety harnesses are essential to the safety of your baby. These stop your baby from falling out. Safety harnesses are also necessary to comply with Australian safety standards
Car restraint considerations:
Car restraints sold in Australia must comply with mandatory safety standards. If buying second hand it’s best to buy from a reliable person or company as this is an important safety device. If a car seat has ever been in an accident it must be disposed of.
Are the instructions available?
Try to get the original instructions for items, especially those requiring assembly. Many are now available online, including car seat installation instructions.
Baby clothes
Most baby clothes have not been worn for long as babies grow so quickly, they are usually in great condition. Just give them a good wash and dry before use. Family and friends will often pass on their baby clothes, I think this is the best form of recycling. Seeing another baby in your baby’s clothes brings joy.
Good luck looking for some secondhand baby products!
