Buy secondhand baby things safely

Secondhand is one of the biggest savings in baby budgeting. Most things are perfectly fine used. A few safety items need extra care.

Usually great secondhand

• Clothes, especially newborn sizes they barely wear
• Books and many toys
• Strollers and carriers in good working order
• Bouncers and play mats (check for recalls)

Car seats: only with a known history

• Only accept one from someone you trust who can tell you its full history
• Don't use a seat that has been in a moderate or severe crash
• Check the expiration date on the label; seats expire after a number of years set by the maker
• Make sure all parts and the manual are there, and check for recalls

Cribs

• Avoid drop-side cribs and very old cribs; current federal safety standards took effect in 2011
• Check that slats aren't loose or too far apart, and nothing is cracked or missing
• Buy a new, firm mattress that fits snugly

Check for recalls

Search the brand and model at CPSC.gov or SaferProducts.gov for products, and NHTSA.gov for car seats.

General safety information. When in doubt about a sleep or car seat product, ask your pediatrician or a certified car seat technician. Family Penny Saver isn't paid by any brand, store or insurer.