Clark Howard says buying used is smart for older kids, not young children

Parents are trying to save money wherever they can as kids are getting ready to head back to school, but our Consumer Warrior Clark Howard says it’s not always a good idea to buy things used.

Clark says for older kids it’s normal fine. He says when it comes to things like sporting goods, it’s way cheaper to buy used equipment rather than the new stuff.

But for babies and younger children, Clark says it’s safer to buy things new.

“The problem with buying second hand for young children is the stuff may not prove to be safe,” Clark says.

He says you never want a second-hand car seat because you never know what its already been through. Clark says there are also examples of people buying second-hand cribs that turn out to be unsafe.

If you’re older kids need anything for extracurricular activities, Clark says buying used is the way to go.

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