Guides / Stay safe
Items to always buy new
Safety gear with an unknown history isn't worth the risk.
Some items can be damaged in ways you can't see, or may not meet current safety standards. For these, new is the safer choice.
Usually buy new
- Car seats: they can be weakened by a crash you can't see, and they expire
- Bike, ski and sports helmets
- Mattresses (or inspect very carefully)
- Cribs: older ones may not meet current federal standards
- Anything you can't check for recalls
An exception
A car seat from a family member you trust, with a known history, all its parts and label, and not expired, may be fine. Check the manufacturer's guidance.
General educational information. Always check recalls for safety items. Centsational Deals isn't paid by any store, marketplace or reseller.