It’s almost Christmas, and we all want to save money, especially when we need to replace something that would otherwise be too expensive when bought new. But can everything be bought used?
Well, no – there are just some things you cannot compromise on for health, safety, hygiene, or other good reasons.
Let’s explore the items that may seem like a good deal second-hand but should always be bought new. While the savings are tempting, some second-hand purchases are better left untouched—no matter how great the price.
Medicine
This goes without saying. Did you know that medication can expire? And that what you see might not be what you’re getting? NEVER buy medication from anywhere except a pharmacy (or trusted retailer).
Buying from unverified sources, like online marketplaces or random garage sales, risks your health. What’s worse, counterfeit drugs can look almost identical to the real thing but be full of harmful ingredients. It’s simply not worth taking a chance.
Fire Extinguishers
There’s a reason these devices must be inspected regularly – sure, they fight fires, but they’re under pressure all the time (literally – regardless of the type of extinguisher).
Buying used means you don’t know what you’re getting. A fire extinguisher that’s been sitting unused for years may fail when needed most. Investing in a new one is always better so you know it’s ready when you need it.
Towels
Sweat, germs, you name it – it all gets stuck in those fluffy fibers. Towels are one of those items that come into direct contact with your skin, and used towels have been through a lot.
No matter how much you wash them, they can still harbor bacteria or odors that aren’t easy to eliminate. Keep your towels fresh and clean – some things are just better new.
Laptops
Laptops are getting more expensive as technology improves, and it feels like we’re being pushed to continuously replace the hardware. But buying used?
You could be inheriting someone else’s problem. That “bargain” laptop may cost you more in repairs, like viruses, outdated software, or hardware issues. Ultimately, you’re better off investing in a new machine with the necessary reliability (and warranty).
Hearing Aids
Health insurance can have all sorts of restrictions and copays regarding hearing aids, and often they’re not fully covered. While buying second-hand might seem like a quick solution, don’t take the bait. Hearing aids aren’t one-size-fits-all – they must properly fit your hearing needs.
Plus, buying used could expose you to health risks like infections or poor hygiene, especially if the device hasn’t been sanitized properly.
Batteries
Remember the myth that you could touch a battery to your tongue to see if it still had a charge? Yeah, we won’t recommend that. Let’s just say buying used batteries is risky and often a waste of money.
If you buy a used battery, you’re already aware it has a reduced lifespan, but you can’t always gauge by how much. And then there’s the safety factor—old batteries can leak or even explode under the wrong conditions.
Plus, there’s the environmental impact. Used batteries often get discarded improperly, adding to pollution. Stick to new batteries for your safety—and the planet.
Bedding
If you’ve never encountered dust mites and bacteria, you shouldn’t expose yourself now by buying used bedding. Sheets, blankets, comforters – they’re not worth the ick for the cheap price tag. Rather spend the money on new bedding and know it’s clean and hygienic.
Used bedding can be a breeding ground for germs, allergens, and even odors that won’t come out. Your bed should be a place of comfort and cleanliness, not a risk to your health.
Exercise Equipment
We’re going into the “new year, new me” era that happens every December, but buying used exercise equipment can end up being one of a few things. It could be a waste of money.
And it’s not just because it’s not maintained or broken or you overcommitted during December, but also because you could rather spend the money on a gym membership or saving up to buy new.
Sure, it sounds tempting to save a few bucks, but in the long run, that second-hand treadmill or elliptical could collect dust or cost you more in repairs.
Tires
All tires have a tread wear indicator – those small, raised bars telling you when to replace them. Don’t buy used tires. Even when they look fine, you don’t know if there’s been a hidden puncture or patch job that could fail when you least expect it.
Tires are your connection to the road; a bad one can leave you stranded or worse. Always choose new tires from a trusted dealership—your safety is worth the investment.
Underwear and Swimwear
This is just a hard no. Most shops don’t accept underwear or swimwear exchanges (or returns) after you’ve bought them – for good reason.
Buying used in this category is a massive hygiene risk, even for that perfect fit and even more perfect price tag. You have no idea where it’s been, and even if it’s almost like new or a donation, it’s just not worth the gamble.
Your health and comfort deserve fresh, clean items. Always buy new when it comes to underwear and swimwear.
Smoke Detectors
99% of American homes have smoke detectors, so it’s not like you have to install one. But if you need to replace it, please don’t buy used. You have no idea whether it’s been tested, updated, or even still functioning properly.
Smoke detectors are your first line of defense in a fire, and you can’t afford to take a risk with something that may not work when you need it most. Always stay updated and refer to the U.S. Fire Administration and the National Fire Protection Association for guidance on keeping your home safe.
Helmets
Helmets might seem like something you can buy as an afterthought, but they really aren’t. Ask anyone who’s been in an accident—whether it’s a bicycle, motorcycle, or any activity that requires one—and they’ll tell you how crucial they are.
Buying used is a gamble because you won’t know if the helmet has hidden damage. Hairline fractures or stress marks might not be visible to the naked eye, but they can compromise the helmet’s ability to protect you. Don’t risk it—your safety deserves a brand-new helmet.
Mattresses
Returning to dust mites and bacteria—there are a few shows where investigators shine UV lights around hotel rooms, and the mattress is almost always the area that lights up like a UV Christmas tree.
Mattresses trap everything, from sweat to allergens, and if they haven’t been properly maintained (and honestly, you’ll never know), it’s a recipe for discomfort—and potentially even a health risk.
Cleaning a used mattress can cost a small fortune and still leave you wondering what’s lurking inside. Just buy new and sleep easy.
Cosmetics and Personal Care Products
It’s not just about buying used; it’s also about buying off-brand—you really don’t know what’s inside. You might be getting something that irritates your skin or causes an allergic reaction, and let’s be honest, you also have no idea how clean the previous owner’s habits were.
Cosmetics should always be bought new (hence personal care products). There’s no need to break the bank on brand names when you can find great products at more affordable prices, all while ensuring your health and safety.
Cameras and Photography Equipment
There’s a fine line between used and vintage—because let’s face it, vintage is really just old used, right? Yes, but vintage doesn’t always mean a bargain, especially when buying from a trusted retailer.
We’re talking about the cheap, second-hand gear that seems like a deal but can cost more in repairs, outdated parts, or frustration.
If you’re buying vintage for its uniqueness, that’s one thing, but buying used equipment you intend to use to save money can lead to broken equipment or end up not being worth the cost. That money could’ve been better spent on new, reliable gear.
