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Monday, February 10, 2025

Items you should never buy second-hand

Let’s be real – we all love a good bargain, especially when thrifting! But let’s have a quick chat before you grab that “amazing deal.” While second-hand shopping is great for your pocket and the planet, some items should always be bought new. Here’s your friendly guide to what you should skip at the thrift store.

Underwear
Let’s start with the obvious – underwear and bras are a big NO for thrifting. Think about it: would you borrow someone’s toothbrush? Exactly! These items are way too personal to share, even after washing.

Plus, bras lose their magic after about a year of wear. That secondhand bargain won’t give you the support you deserve, and it’s definitely not worth saving a few coins on something so important for your comfort.

Workout gear
Those cute leggings might be calling your name, but resist! Workout clothes are designed to hug your body and support your movements. When someone else has already stretched them to their shape, they won’t do the same for you. These clothes hold onto sweat in ways regular washing might not fix, and the elastic is probably already tired from countless squats and stretches. Your workout deserves fresh, supportive gear that moves with you.

Swimming suits
That vintage one-piece might look Instagram-worthy, but let’s think this through. Swimwear is like underwear – it’s super personal and sits right against your skin. Plus, chlorine and sun damage mean that cute suit has probably lost its stretch. Even if it looks perfect on the hanger, it won’t hug your curves the way a new suit would. Save your coins for a new one that’ll make you feel confident by the pool.

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Kids’ clothes
While it’s tempting to buy second-hand for fast-growing kids, some children’s items need special attention. Sleepwear, especially, follows strict safety standards that change often. Those cute pajamas from five years ago might not meet today’s requirements. Items with drawstrings can be dangerous, and worn shoes might affect your child’s walking development. When it comes to the little ones, sometimes new is the way to go.

Safety gear
Never compromise on protective gear! You can’t see if a helmet has been in an accident, and even a small crack can make it useless when you need it most. Safety standards update regularly, and your wellbeing is worth more than the money you’d save buying second-hand. This goes for all protective equipment – from bike helmets to knee pads.

Footwear
Some shoes are okay second-hand, but running shoes and well-worn footwear are a no-go. Running shoes mold to their first owner’s feet, and wearing someone else’s worn-in shoes can hurt your posture and comfort. If you spot heavy wear patterns or smell something funky, keep walking. Your feet carry you through life – they deserve fresh shoes that support them properly.

Smelly or stained situations
If something smells funny in the store, it’ll smell funny in your closet. Some stains and odors are there for life, no matter how many times you wash them. Smoke smell, mystery spots, and musty odors tend to be permanent residents in fabric. Trust your nose – if something seems off, leave it for someone else.

Tricky-to-clean clothes
Some items need special cleaning attention that might cost more than buying new. Leather needs professional care, delicate fabrics can hide damage, and dry-clean only pieces might be more trouble than they’re worth. Unless you’re ready for that level of commitment or know a great cleaner, these might be better bought new.

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The smart shopping strategy
Instead of these risky items, focus your thrifting energy on pieces that age well. Classic jeans often get better with time. Sturdy jackets and coats can be easily cleaned and refreshed. Handbags can be sanitized and restored to their former glory. Books and accessories often have plenty of life left in them.

While saving money feels great, some things are worth the investment in new items. Your health, safety, and comfort should always come first. Think of it this way – the money you save on a risky second-hand purchase might end up being spent on replacing it sooner than you’d like.

Remember, smart thrifting means knowing what to skip just as much as knowing what to buy. Keep these guidelines in mind, and you’ll be a savvy second-hand shopper who knows exactly what deserves your attention and what’s better left on the rack. Happy thrifting, and may your closet be filled with treasures that bring you joy – both new and pre-loved!

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