There are many great reasons to buy second hand, from environmental considerations to thrift, however, there are some things really shouldn’t ever be bought used. While used books, furniture and art are all great purchases, the following items are ones that you probably don’t want to have been around the block already.
Electronics – Whether it’s a laptop computer or a digital camera, if someone is getting rid of theirs, it is probably because it no longer works properly or is outdated. Computers and cameras tend to have a very short lifespan so it’s worth spending a little more and getting something that is a bit more useful and reliable.
Flowers – Second hand when it comes to flowers can be a matter of a few days. If you can’t find fresh looking flowers, buy your flowers online and have them delivered. Half dead flowers are an insult and don’t say much good about you or your feelings for the person you are giving them to.
Socks and Underwear – People’s feet and private parts are not the cleanest parts of their body, and even though second hand socks and underwear will have been washed, you still won’t feel totally clean wearing them. The shape and support of these items will also have been compromised by their having been used and stretched already. Treat yourself and always buy new ones.
Bedding – Whether it’s your bed linen or doona, it’s nice to know that the only action they have seen has been yours. Seriously, if you want to feel clean in your bed, it’s probably good to get yourself some new bedding. Pillows are also good to buy new as they tend to lose their form pretty quickly and won’t provide much support is they’ve had a lot of prior use. They also house lots of microscopic nasties!
Vacuum Cleaners – Everyone needs a vacuum, so if someone is selling theirs, there is a good chance that it isn’t working at a high level anymore. It’s also a good idea to invest in a good quality vacuum – if you look after it properly, it will last forever. If you can’t afford a good one, consider splitting the cost with a neighbour as it is an easy item to share, you probably don’t need one each.
Yoga Mat – Think about it, if a yoga mat has had much use, it has probably soaked up quite a few liters of sweat, someone else’s sweat. It will also have lost most of its supportive structure. If you do yoga regularly enough to be in the market for a mat, get yourself a new one. It will be clean, offer better support for your body and the purchase will motivate you to get more serious about your yoga.
Running Shoes – If you run regularly, running shoes are only designed to last a few months, so if someone else has had a go with them already, you are probably better off without them. It’s also really hard to clean shoes properly so you are probably getting a bit of someone else’s foot sweat in the bargain. Shoes are crucial for the health of not only your feet but your entire body, so if you are going to splurge on anything, consider getting good, well supported, properly fitting shoes. You will notice the difference.
