Instead of talking up all those great deals that await you in the early morning hours on someone else’s lawn, we’re here with a list of things you should probably never buy at a garage sale.
1. Baby gear
We’re not talking clothes here. By gear, we mean cribs, playpens, and car seats. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission suggests that older models may not have the same safety features as newer ones. This applies to vintage toys as well. Many vintage toys are safety hazards. We found a list of the Top 10 Banned Toys in the Banned Toy Museum.
2. Bicycle helmets
Bike helmets should be replaced after any crash involving your head. When you buy a helmet at a garage sale, you have no way of really knowing the helmet’s mysterious, and possibly sordid past.
3. Mattresses
Two words: bed bugs. These pests can be found in all 50 states, and they can be difficult to get rid of once they find compatible roomies. Old mattresses may also have odors or stains you may not easily put to rest.
4. Bath and body products
Yard sale versions of these products may not be as effective as they were when new. Once open, exposure to air and/or bacteria may begin to break them down.
5. Puzzles and board games
Unless these items are in original packaging or you are able to confirm that all pieces, parts, and game components are accounted for, you may be setting yourself up for more frustration than it’s worth.