What to buy used, and what to buy new
Some things are almost always a great secondhand buy. Some are fine with a careful look. And a few, mostly safety items, are best bought new. Here's a quick guide by category. Always check recalls with the model number.
Buy used Check carefully Buy new
| Category | Verdict | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Solid wood furniture | Buy used Usually a great buy | Joints, drawers, smells. Anchor tall pieces to the wall. |
| Kids' clothes and shoes | Buy used Usually a great buy | Seams, zippers, stains. Wash first. |
| Books, games and puzzles | Buy used Usually a great buy | Missing pieces. |
| Hand and power tools | Buy used Usually a good buy | Test them; check cords and blades; check recalls on power tools. |
| Kitchenware and dishes | Buy used Usually a good buy | Skip scratched non-stick pans and chipped dishes. |
| Bikes | Check carefully Good, with an inspection | Frame cracks, brakes, chain, tires. Budget for a tune-up. |
| Phones, tablets and laptops | Check carefully Good, with care | Battery, screen, ports, account lock. Certified refurbished is safer. |
| Upholstered furniture | Check carefully Be careful | Inspect seams with a flashlight for signs of bed bugs. |
| Appliances | Check carefully Be careful | Test it, check age, and check recalls with the model number. |
| Strollers, high chairs, baby gear | Check carefully Be careful | All parts present, not recalled, labels intact. |
| Cars | Check carefully Good, with an inspection | History report, independent mechanic, open recalls at NHTSA.gov. |
| Cribs | Buy new Usually buy new | Older cribs may not meet current federal safety standards. |
| Car seats | Buy new Buy new | Crash damage you can't see, expiration dates, missing parts. |
| Helmets | Buy new Buy new | Can be weakened by an impact you can't see. |
| Mattresses | Buy new Usually buy new | Hygiene and pests are hard to check. |
General information, not safety certification. Check Recalls.gov, CPSC.gov and NHTSA.gov, and follow manufacturer guidance.
New or used: which costs less over time?
Put the numbers into the new vs. used calculator to compare the cost per year of use.