Some things are perfectly fine to buy secondhand, saving you money and even helping the environment. But when it comes to health, safety, and durability, certain items should never be bought used. From everyday essentials to big-ticket purchases, buying new is the only way to ensure hygiene, comfort, and peace of mind. Here are 20 things you should always buy new.
Read More:
- See 6 apps that pay for grocery store receipts
- Spend less on groceries. Smart shoppers swear by these 20 tricks
- Here are 20 discounts only seniors can get
1. Mattresses
A mattress is one purchase you should never buy used. Not only does it harbor years of sweat, allergens, and bacteria, but it can also be home to dust mites or even bedbugs. Older mattresses lose their support and can lead to back and neck pain, cutting into your sleep quality and overall health. Additionally, used mattresses often don’t meet current safety standards for fire resistance. While it may seem like a big investment, a new mattress is essential for both hygiene and comfort, making it one of the most important items to always buy new.
2. Underwear and Socks
Some clothing items can be safely bought secondhand, but underwear and socks should always be purchased new. These garments come into the closest contact with your body, and no amount of washing truly guarantees that they’re free from bacteria, fungus, or other germs. Worn fabric in these areas also loses elasticity quickly, meaning used versions won’t hold up well over time. New underwear and socks ensure proper hygiene, comfort, and durability. Because these are relatively inexpensive compared to other clothing, it’s well worth spending the extra money for peace of mind and confidence in your personal health.
3. Swimsuits
Because swimsuits are worn so close to the body, used swimsuits may carry bacteria, yeast, or fungi that can survive even after washing. The fabric also tends to lose elasticity and support quickly, especially in chlorine or saltwater, so buying used often means you’re getting a stretched-out, faded garment. A new swimsuit guarantees you’ll have a hygienic, well-fitting, and durable piece that provides the support you need. Considering swimsuits are often seasonal and not overly expensive, it’s best to avoid the risks and invest in new swimwear every time.
4. Car Seats for Babies
Safety should always come first, and that means never buying a used baby car seat. Car seats have expiration dates, and the plastic and safety features can degrade over time. Worse, a secondhand seat may have been involved in a car accident, even if there’s no visible damage. Regulations and safety standards also change frequently, so an older seat might not meet today’s requirements. Buying new ensures your child is protected with up-to-date features and uncompromised materials. This is one product where cutting costs isn’t worth the potential risks.
5. Helmets
Helmets are designed to protect your head in the event of a fall or accident, but only once. Even a single impact can compromise the structure of a helmet, rendering it far less effective, despite appearing fine on the outside. That’s why buying a used helmet is never safe. You have no way of knowing if it’s been damaged. Materials like foam and plastic also degrade over time, reducing their protective abilities. Whether it’s for biking, skateboarding, or any other activity, always buy a new helmet to ensure maximum safety and peace of mind.
6. Shoes
Shoes mold to the original wearer’s feet, meaning a used pair won’t fit your unique shape correctly. This can lead to discomfort, blisters, and even long-term foot problems. Worn-out soles and insoles also provide less support and cushioning, which affects posture and can strain your knees or back. Additionally, used shoes may harbor fungus or bacteria that cause conditions like athlete’s foot. A new pair ensures proper support, hygiene, and comfort tailored to your needs—making it a worthwhile investment for your health.
7. Makeup
Products like mascara, lipstick, and foundation can harbor bacteria once opened, especially around the eyes and mouth. Using secondhand makeup exposes you to potential infections like pink eye, cold sores, or skin breakouts. Even unopened products may be expired or stored improperly, reducing effectiveness and safety. Buying new ensures the product is fresh, uncontaminated, and safe to apply to your skin. Since makeup is a personal-use item, it’s always better to prioritize your health and invest in new products.
8. Vacuum Cleaners
While you might find used vacuum cleaners for cheap, they’re rarely worth it. Vacuums are heavily used appliances, and over time, their motors lose power, resulting in a decline in suction. Filters may be clogged with allergens, dust, and pet hair that are nearly impossible to clean completely. Buying secondhand also means you’re likely to miss out on warranty protection or modern features like HEPA filtration. A new vacuum guarantees strong performance, reliability, and better air quality in your home. Since keeping your living space clean has a significant impact on your health, investing in a new appliance is a worthwhile decision.
9. Bedding and Pillows
Used bedding may carry stains, odors, dust mites, and allergens that linger even after washing. Pillows, in particular, lose shape and support over time, which can negatively impact your sleep quality and cause neck or back pain. A fresh pillow provides better hygiene, improved comfort, and proper alignment. Since we spend about a third of our lives in bed, it makes sense to invest in fresh, new bedding and pillows. Your sleep and health will thank you for avoiding secondhand options.
10. Blenders and Food Processors
Blenders and food processors are best bought new, even though secondhand versions are common. These appliances often experience heavy wear, and their blades can become dull or damaged. Hidden cracks in the pitcher or housing may harbor bacteria that are difficult to clean, especially if the device was used for raw foods. Motors also wear down over time, meaning used models may not perform well or could burn out quickly. By buying new, you’ll ensure powerful performance, clean components, and modern safety features. Since these appliances come into direct contact with your food, new is the safest choice.
11. Tires
Tires are one of the most important safety components on a vehicle, and buying them used is always a gamble. Even if the tread looks fine, older tires may have hidden damage, punctures, or uneven wear that compromise their performance. Rubber also degrades over time, leading to dry rot that increases the likelihood of blowouts. Used tires don’t come with warranties or reliable histories, so you can’t know how safe they truly are. Investing in new tires ensures better traction, longer lifespan, and peace of mind when driving.
12. Earbuds and Headphones
Earbuds and over-ear headphones are items you should never buy used. Earbuds, in particular, go directly inside your ear canal, making them a breeding ground for bacteria, earwax, and even fungal spores. Even if they’re cleaned, it’s almost impossible to guarantee they’re hygienic. Over-ear headphones can also absorb sweat and oils in the padding, which degrades over time. Buying new ensures not only cleanliness but also better sound quality and longer-lasting comfort. Since audio equipment is very personal and often worn for long periods, investing in a fresh, new set is the smartest choice.
13. Hygiene Items (Razors, Hairbrushes, etc.)
Anything related to personal hygiene, such as razors, hairbrushes, or nail clippers, should always be purchased new. Used razors, even if sanitized, carry a high risk of transmitting bacteria or bloodborne pathogens. Hairbrushes and combs can harbor lice, dandruff, or oils that are nearly impossible to fully clean. Nail tools used by others can spread fungal infections. Since these items directly touch your body and sometimes break the skin, the risks of secondhand use far outweigh the savings. Thankfully, most of these items are affordable and widely available new, making it easy to protect your health and hygiene.
14. Nonstick Cookware
Nonstick cookware should always be bought new because the protective coating wears down over time. Scratches or chips in used nonstick pans can release harmful chemicals into your meals. Older cookware also lacks the durability and improved safety standards of newer products. With used pans, you never know how they were cared for; whether they were overheated, cleaned improperly, or damaged by metal utensils. Buying new ensures you get a safe, durable pan with a long lifespan. Considering the direct impact on your food and health, nonstick cookware is worth purchasing new.
15. Cribs
Used cribs can be subject to recalls, may have missing or damaged parts, or fail to meet modern safety standards. Slats that are too wide or hardware that’s worn out create serious risks for infants. In addition, cribs experience wear over time, which can make them unstable or unsafe. A new crib guarantees compliance with current regulations and provides peace of mind that your baby is sleeping in a safe environment. When it comes to your child’s safety, this is a non-negotiable.
16. Laptops and Smartphones
Technology may be tempting to buy secondhand, but laptops and smartphones are often more trouble than they’re worth. Batteries degrade significantly over time, reducing performance and making them costly to replace. Used devices may have hidden hardware issues, outdated operating systems, or even lingering malware. They also rarely come with warranties, leaving you with no recourse if something goes wrong. By buying new, you get the latest features, reliable battery life, and manufacturer protection. While new electronics can be expensive, they provide longer-lasting performance and peace of mind, making them a smarter investment in the long run.
17. Bath Towels
Towels may seem harmless to buy secondhand, but they’re best purchased new. Used towels can harbor bacteria, mold, or lingering odors that even thorough washing may not remove. Over time, towels lose absorbency and softness, leaving them less effective and less comfortable to use. New towels, on the other hand, are fresh, hygienic, and built to last longer. Considering how affordable they are, it makes sense to always buy them new. Fresh towels not only feel better against your skin but also ensure a cleaner, healthier bathroom environment overall.
18. Upholstered Furniture
While secondhand furniture can be a great deal, upholstered pieces are risky. Couches, chairs, and ottomans with fabric coverings can harbor dust mites, allergens, and even pests like bedbugs. Stains and odors often linger deep in the cushions, no matter how much you clean. The structural integrity of the furniture may also weaken over time, making it less supportive. Buying new upholstered furniture ensures a clean, fresh start and modern construction built to last. If you’re set on thrifting, stick to wood or metal furniture, but for fabric-covered items, buying new is the healthier option.
19. Water Bottles
Reusable water bottles are great for the environment, but they should always be bought new. Used bottles, especially those with straws, filters, or hidden crevices, can harbor bacteria and mold that are hard to fully clean. Plastic bottles can also degrade over time, leaching chemicals into your drink. Even metal bottles may have dents or interior damage that affects safety and hygiene. Buying new ensures your bottle is clean, durable, and safe for everyday use. Since staying hydrated is essential for your health, it’s worth investing in a fresh, reliable water bottle from the start.
20. Pet Beds
Used pet beds may carry lingering odors, allergens, fleas, or mites that are difficult to eliminate, even with washing. The stuffing inside tends to break down over time, leaving the bed less comfortable and supportive for your pet. Buying new ensures your furry friend has a clean, cozy place to rest that won’t compromise their health. Considering how much time pets spend in their beds, it’s a small investment that improves their comfort and well-being. Your pet deserves the same standard of hygiene and care you’d choose for yourself.
