When I was younger, I worked as a manager at a thrift store called Plato’s Closet. If you’re not familiar, it’s a store that buys and sells young-adult clothing—trendy pieces in good condition.
During that time I learned a lot about secondhand clothing and accessories, and I learned even more about how people perceive used items.
There are many people who refuse to buy anything used. I even know someone who is disgusted by “used homes” and looks down on people who live in them. Yes, that’s a real person.
I don’t see anything wrong with buying used items. I’ve purchased all kinds of secondhand goods, and I expect I’ll keep doing so. Buying used can offer real value and significant savings.
That said, not every used item is a smart buy. You can save a lot of money buying secondhand or even getting things for free, but there are certain categories where risks outweigh the savings. Below are seven examples of items you should consider buying used and items you should avoid.
Buy: Used clothing
Because I worked in a used clothing store, this is the first item I recommend. Buying secondhand clothing is a great way to save money, no matter your age. You might be able to save hundreds of dollars a year by shopping thrift stores, consignment shops, or online resale marketplaces.
If you think you need only brand-new items, think again—many thrift and resale shops carry designer labels, current trends, and sometimes even unworn pieces with tags still attached. Online platforms make it easy to browse large selections and find high-quality items at steep discounts.
Skip: Used underwear
There’s not much to say here—underwear is best bought new for hygiene and comfort reasons.
Buy: A previously owned home
Surprisingly, some people refuse to buy a home someone else has lived in. I find that attitude odd. Older homes often have character and charm, and a well-chosen renovation can turn a lived-in house into your dream home. In many markets, buying a pre-owned house can also offer better pricing, larger lots, or more favorable locations compared with new construction.
Skip: Used helmets
Helmets are generally designed to withstand one major impact. If a helmet has been in an accident, its protective capability may be compromised even if it looks fine. Buying a used helmet can put you at real risk because you can’t be certain whether it has previously absorbed a blow. For safety, buy new helmets so you know they’ll protect you when needed.
Buy: Used baby clothes
Babies grow out of clothing at an astonishing rate, and most parents have far more garments than a single child will ever wear. Buying used baby clothes is an economical and environmentally friendly choice. You can often find gently worn or like-new items at a fraction of the original cost, avoiding waste and saving money on items that will be outgrown quickly.
Skip: Used mattresses
Mattresses can be expensive, but they’re one item worth buying new when possible. Over time, mattresses accumulate bodily fluids, dead skin cells, and potentially pests such as bed bugs. Bed bugs are a serious, costly problem that can be difficult to eradicate. Many landlords and apartment buildings treat the presence of bed bugs as a major issue, and some leases include strict penalties related to infestations. For hygiene and peace of mind, opt for a new mattress.
Buy: Used textbooks
Used textbooks are a practical way to cut college expenses. You can often buy the same edition for a fraction of the cost of a new book. A few highlighted passages or marginal notes are usually a small trade-off for the savings.
Another option is renting textbooks, which can be even cheaper and saves you the hassle of reselling them later. I personally rented most of my college textbooks and found it convenient and cost-effective.
What items do you typically buy used? What would you never buy secondhand?