Take a Pass on These Hand-Me-Downs

Hand-me-downs are beautiful things, but not all used baby items are created equal. And as much as it may hurt to turn down some gear that would really save your wallet, the safety or health risk is not worth it. So happily accept most hand-me-downs, but here are a few things to politely decline.Source: Flickr user craikabula

01
Stained Gear

Stained Gear

I've accepted stained stuff, thinking I was going to take the time to get the stain out, but it turns out that my newborn had other plans for me, and stain removal didn't meet the list of to-dos as a new mom. So if your finances allow, opt out. Source: Instagram user lizzie1524

02
Bath Toys

Bath Toys

Bath toys are inexpensive, and new ones will be free of mildew and mold. Source: Instagram user laureniiee

03
High Chairs That Don't Meet Current Standards

High Chairs That Don't Meet Current Standards

If the high chair doesn't meet the following safety standards, then politely pass:

  • A crotch post
  • A safety-restraint system with a five-point harness
  • Wheels that lock in place
  • If it folds, it won't scissor, shear, or pinch you or your little one's fingers

Source: Instagram user hazelandpear

04
Cribs Made Before June 2011

Cribs Made Before June 2011

In June 28, 2011, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) updated crib-safety standards, which prohibit the manufacture or sale of traditional drop-side rail cribs, strengthen crib slats and mattress supports, as well as improve the quality of hardware and require more rigorous testing. Cribs made before this date will not meet the requirements and therefore may not be safe. Source: Instagram user jessica_rabbitt

05
Expired (and Questionable) Car Seats

Expired (and Questionable) Car Seats

Car seats are one of those things it would be ideal to buy new, but if someone you trust wants to hand one down to you then it's definitely something to consider. Decline the offer if the carseat is expired and/or the carseat has been in an accident. Source: Instagram user orianesaulnier

06
Personal Breast Pumps and Accessories

Personal Breast Pumps and Accessories

Saying no to a hand-me-down breast pump is tough because they are so dang pricey, but the truth is that unless the pump being handed down is a closed system (most personal pumps on the market run on an open system), then you should really stick with a new one. Source: Instagram user k_sauns_827

07
Clothing You Just Don't Like

Clothing You Just Don't Like

Clothes are the easiest (and best) thing to accept graciously. Kids grow out of them so fast, so used clothes are fantastic. But if you just don't like the items being offered, then simply decline. Chances are you'll never actually put something on your tot that you dislike — and then you'll just have to figure out something to do with them later. Source: Instagram user moniquemanson

08
Pads (of Any Kind)

Pads (of Any Kind)

Changing pads, breast pads (reusable), and crib pads are probably best new. Source: Instagram user bsnugglebugbaby

09
Old or Recalled Strollers

Old or Recalled Strollers

Before accepting a used stroller, check with the manufacturer or the Consumer Product Safety Commission to see if it's been recalled. Even if it hasn't been recalled, an older stroller might not meet the latest safety standards, which are always being updated. Source: Instagram user bideo_bincent

10
Pacifiers and Nipples

Pacifiers and Nipples

Pacifiers and nipples for bottles are easy on the wallet and, due to hygienic issues, might be something you'd want to decline. Source: Instagram user deepsmom

11
Playpens With Holes in the Mesh

Playpens With Holes in the Mesh

Playpens (or play yards) can get a lot of wear and tear, so inspect the one being handed down for holes in the mesh larger than 1/4 inch. Also, look for the JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) Certification Seal, which means the playpen meets the safety standards of the Consumer Products Safety Commission. Source: Instagram user caaralynnxo

12
Unsecure or Analog Video Monitors

Unsecure or Analog Video Monitors

Sounds and images transmitted on digital monitors can be seen only by you and not by neighbors (or creepers) who might have a similar model. Analog models do not offer the same security. Source: Instagram user kahlia1986

13
Broken or Peeling Toys

Broken or Peeling Toys

Peeling, chipping, and broken toys are not worth the safety risk — opt out of these hand-me-downs. Source: Instagram user howienjoylife