Garage sales are treasure troves for bargain hunters, but not all deals are worth grabbing. Some items can cost you more in repairs and replacements or even pose risks to your health and safety. While snagging something cheap is tempting, knowing what to avoid is crucial.
We have researched various online forums to compile a list of the 15 worst things to buy at a garage sale.
Mattresses
Used mattresses might seem like a steal, but they can sometimes harbor bed bugs, dust mites, and bacteria. Bed bug infestations have been rising recently, with many cases linked to secondhand furniture. Besides the hygiene risks, old mattresses often lack the support needed for a good night’s sleep. This could lead to back problems.
DVDs and Electronics
While a $10 DVD player may seem like a steal, electronics from garage sales are often a gamble. Used devices can be outdated, malfunctioning, or missing crucial parts. Besides, you’re stuck if something goes wrong without a warranty or return policy. DVDs might also have issues, such as scratches or damage, that make them unplayable, which adds to your frustration and wasted money.
Car Seats
Buy a used car seat, and you’re putting safety at risk. Car seats have expiration dates, and even minor accidents can compromise their integrity. Experts recommend never buying secondhand car seats, as unseen damage can reduce their effectiveness in protecting children during crashes.
Makeup and Personal Care Items
Steer clear of makeup and personal care products at garage sales. These items have a shelf life and can become breeding grounds for bacteria, especially once opened. Used makeup can cause skin irritations, infections, or allergic reactions. It is much safer to buy these products from reputable stores where you can trust their quality and hygiene standards.
Footwear
Old shoes, especially leather ones, conform to the shape of the original owner’s feet, which can cause discomfort and even foot issues for new wearers. They can also harbor bacteria and fungi, leading to potential infections. It’s better to invest in a new pair that will provide the proper support and hygiene for your feet.
Helmets
Never buy a used helmet at a garage sale. Helmets are meant to protect you from a single impact, and any previous damage, even if not visible, can compromise their safety. You won’t know if a helmet has been involved in a crash or dropped, which could render it useless in protecting you. Always buy a new helmet to ensure it will function as intended.
Cookware
Used cookware, especially non-stick pans, can pose health risks. The coating on non-stick cookware, especially Teflon, wears off in about one year, potentially exposing you to harmful chemicals. It might be scratched or damaged since you don’t know how the previous owner maintained their cookware. For peace of mind and safety in the kitchen, buying new cookware you know is safe is wise.
Baby Gear
It is risky to buy bassinets and baby furniture at a garage sale. Safety standards for these items change often, and older models might not meet current regulations. Bassinets could have gaps, missing parts, or other hazards that put your baby at risk. For your child’s safety, it’s best to invest in new baby furniture that complies with the latest safety standards.
Stuffed Animals
While stuffed animals are cute, they’re not worth the risk at a garage sale. These soft toys can harbor dust mites, allergens, and even mold if they’ve been stored improperly. Plus, they’re nearly impossible to clean thoroughly without damaging them. If you want a plush toy for a child, it’s better to buy a new one to ensure it’s safe and clean.
Old Appliances
Old appliances may seem like bargains, but they are often less energy-efficient and may not meet current safety standards. Older models can consume significantly more energy and cost approximately $450 more annually. Moreover, they might have outdated wiring or parts that pose a fire risk, especially when not maintained properly.
Upholstered Furniture
While that secondhand couch might look like a great deal, upholstered furniture can hide a lot more than just a few stains. It can be a hotbed for mold, mildew, and pests like bed bugs or fleas. Cleaning old upholstery is a nightmare, and you can never be sure it’s genuinely sanitized. Plus, odors from the previous owners can linger, making your new purchase less than fresh.
Books with Water Damage or Mold
Books that have suffered from water damage or mold are best avoided. Moisture can warp pages, while mold can trigger various health issues such as nasal congestion, sore throat, coughing, wheezing, itchy eyes, or skin rashes. For people with medical conditions like asthma or mold allergies, the effects can be even more severe. Opt for new or well-preserved books to ensure a better reading experience.
Old Luggage
Old luggage is often a poor investment in garage sales. It can experience wear and tear that affects its durability, such as broken zippers, damaged wheels, or torn fabric. Secondhand luggage may also have lingering odors or stains that are tough to remove. The structural integrity might be compromised, making it unreliable for travel. Invest in new luggage to ensure better durability, functionality, and cleanliness for your trips.
Used Tires
Used tires from a garage sale are a risky choice. They might have hidden defects, such as tread wear or internal damage, which can compromise their safety. Even if they look fine on the outside, old or improperly stored tires may have weakened over time, increasing the risk of blowouts or accidents. Investing in new tires is crucial to ensure reliable performance and safety on the road.
Puzzles and Board Games
Puzzles and board games often have missing or damaged pieces, making them frustrating and unplayable. It is better to buy new to avoid incomplete or faulty games, saving you from a potentially disappointing purchase. Verify all pieces are included before buying secondhand.
