Don't buy these 5 baby products used

Want to save money? Preowned baby products can be a bargain. But for some items, like those we list here, you’ll want to buy new because it’s safer.

Don’t buy a used…

Play yard. Why? Newer models are more likely to meet current voluntary safety standards, which address problems of earlier models. Older, used models may have a top-rail hinge that can collapse, forming a steep, V-shaped angle that puts children at risk of being trapped or strangled, or they may have been recalled for one problem or another.

Car seat. A used seat may have been in a crash or recalled. The manufacturer’s instructions may be missing. If you must use a secondhand seat, avoid those with an unknown history or that are older than 6 years. In the world of car seats, a 6-year-old model is a relic--and risky.

Crib. Older models may not meet current safety standards or may be in disrepair. If you must use an older crib, avoid those built before 2000, about a year after the latest voluntary standards for slat-attachment strength took effect. Check the manufacture date on the crib label, which is required by law. Currently, 12 states have laws banning the sale of unsafe used cribs or prohibiting their use in child-care facilities. Your state may have such a law.

Breast pump. We’ve said it before--using a preowned pump is like sharing someone else’s toothbrush. It’s unhygienic. And unless a breast pump is a hospital-grade rental, it’s only meant for one user anyway.

Soft infant carrier. Strap-on carriers and slings have been subject to recalls, so buy new to ensure that you’re carrying your baby safely. Even with a new model, check the straps, snaps and other closures regularly to be sure they’re in good working order.

To play it even safer, make sure any used baby product you’re considering hasn’t been recalled. For the latest recall information, visit www.recalls.gov. When buying new, send in the registration card so you’ll be alerted to any recalls automatically.

Comments

[Amy Klinsky]

I don't know why Consumer Reports seems to omit Recaro Young Sport as one of the car seats to test. ITHS named it one of the safest booster seats. I believe it is the best conversion seat out there since it goes from 5 point harness to booster seat (up to 80 lbs. and up to 59 inches. I also no testing/information about how the car seats held up to side impact accident. Many car seats don't seem to have much protection for this type of accident. I would be curious to see if the ratings would change. This was one of the main reasons I bought the Recaro Young Sport. The seat hugs the child and there are side wings to protect head during a side impact car crash. Both my kids also love sitting in it.

[faith sands]

This is to log my disapointment. I paid the yearly fee, thinking that I was going to be provided with a wealth of information to help me purchase the best car seat for my 11 month old son. Imagine my surprise at seeing only 4 different seats rated. Depending on the response I receive from I may demand my money back.

[Jessica Johannsson]

Actually nearly every breast pump on the market is not considered a closed system, meaning breastmilk can make it's way into the motor/ diaphragm area. That is where bacteria buildup occurs. Even if you switch all the pieces, that pump is still contaminated, because more often than not, you cannot replace the internal components that have been compromised. (Not to mention the possible blood-bourne pathogens that may be in there as well if the mother ever had cracked or bleeding nipples when using the pump.) It's totally not worth the risk. Any doctor and pediatrician will tell you the same thing. Health of baby comes first!

The FDA has a listing of closed system pumps that are able to be switched between users. Of course they are nearly all hospital-grade pumps, not ones you can run out and buy at the nearest store.

[Boisvert]

Actually, there are very few models of breast pumps that don't pose the risk of breast milk getting into the motor. Check the LLL website. The only safe pre-used breast pump is a hospital grade pump.

[Jake Berzon]

Your advice on breast pumps makes no sense. Of course, it would be unhygienic to use someone else's pump accessories, but the pump motor itself never touches the milk supply and is completely reusable. Considering that most hospitals will give you new tubes and cups (and even if they don't, you can buy them new - cheap), a used motor is all you are really buying/using.