Photo: Jamie Hooper (Shutterstock)
At this time of year, sales of yards and flea markets are in full swing. Not only do they offer the opportunity to pick up countless items at reasonable prices and win some unique vintage finds, but buying second-hand is (usually) a more sustainable way to shop.
However, there are some things you should not buy when you see them at yard sales, flea markets, digging sales and / or jewelry. Here’s what you need to know.
Items that are not bought on sale in the yard
Most of the items on this list are there for health, hygiene and safety reasons and apply if you plan to use them for their original purpose. In other words, if you are buying something with the intention of upgrading it, these guidelines do not necessarily apply.
Car seats
It is common to see products designed for babies and young children – such as car seats – at yard sales, because at some point no one in the household can use them. But for the most part, buying car seats on sale in the yard or at flea markets is not a good idea.
As their parts (especially plastic) deteriorate over time, car seats come with an expiration date, usually six to 10 years after the date they were manufactured. In addition, once they have had an accident, they must not be used again.
Even if you find a car seat that has not yet expired and you know where it comes from (and that it has not had an accident), make sure it comes with your registration card so you can find out if it has been withdrawn for any reason. .
Non-stick cookware
Unless it’s brand new and shows signs of peeling or scratching, skip non-stick cookware when selling in the yard.
All with mold
Whether it is furniture, clothes, books or household items, it is best to leave everything behind with visible mold or mildew and / or the smell of mold.
Nursery
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), cribs older than 10 years or that are broken or modified should no longer be used. This is because they pose a safety risk if there are gaps between loose components or broken slats, as the baby may fall through them while his head remains in the crib.
Makeup
One is if you find a vintage art deco powder container with leftovers from the original product you plan to display and never use. But in general, buying second-hand or older cosmetics should be avoided. If the products are open and / or used, skip them for sanitary purposes. Either way, makeup has a short shelf life (usually around 12-18 months), so it’s probably expired.
Bicycle helmets
Whether made for children or adults, bicycle helmets are not a second-hand product. Like car seats, they should not be used after an accident. In addition, according to the Institute for the Safety of Bicycle Helmets, older helmets may not meet current safety standards.
Baby gates
Due to normal wear and tear, used baby gates often lack important components, such as springs, and may no longer be safe to use.
Add Comment