WeMoms
2 Apr 2024

Baby Gear: What To Reuse

Prepping for baby arrival
Baby room
Sustainable Choices: A Second-Time Mom's Guide to Baby Items
Expecting your second child is a special time filled with anticipation and planning. As a parent, you may be wondering which baby items you can reuse, what's better to purchase new, and how to make sustainable choices. In this guide, we'll walk you through essential considerations when it comes to baby gear for your second bundle of joy.
Buying New: Safety Matters
While recycling and reusing are admirable practices, certain baby items should be purchased new to ensure your child's safety and well-being.
1. Mattresses
  • Reusing mattresses, especially if they've been outside your household, can pose a small risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
  • Ensure any used mattress you consider is in excellent condition without rips or tears.
  • Verify that the mattress was fully protected by a waterproof cover during prior use.
  • Visit The Lullaby Trust for more information on safe sleep practices.
2. Car Seats
  • Car seats used exclusively within your family can typically be reused.
  • However, if the car seat has been used by someone you don't know, its safety may be compromised.
  • Older seats might lack the latest safety improvements available on the market.
  • Ensure the car seat has all safety instructions and look for current safety marks as recommended by ROSPA.
3. Breast Pumps
  • While there have been no reported cases of infections resulting from second-hand breast pumps, it's a good practice to consider a new pump.
  • Hospital-grade multi-user pumps can be hired from trusted sources.
4. Dummies (Pacifiers)
  • Consider purchasing new dummies for each baby.
  • Used dummies might have cracks or plastic damage.
  • Safety and hygiene are essential for items your baby will frequently use.
5. Shoes
  • Shoes should ideally not be worn by more than one child due to potential molding to the first child's feet.
  • Existing wear and tear, especially from active play, can affect the shoes' durability.
  • Consider purchasing new shoes to ensure your baby's comfort and safety.
Reusing with Caution: Safety Checks
While certain baby items can be reused, it's vital to conduct thorough safety checks before doing so. Here's what to consider:
1. Pushchairs (Strollers)
  • Check for working brakes, properly aligned wheels, smooth folding mechanisms, and a secure locking mechanism.
  • Ensure there is no rust, flaking paint, or damaged chrome.
  • Inspect the fabric for tears and ensure the frame and handles are free from unusual bends or kinks.
  • Confirm that the pushchair has a five-point harness to meet current safety standards.
2. Stair Gates
  • Ensure the bars or slats have spacing no greater than 5.5cm (according to current safety standards).
  • Examine the gate for any damage, wear, or holes that could trap fingers or provide footholds for climbing.
  • Confirm that the gate fits securely with minimal clearance between it and the floor.
  • Check that locks are functional and require force, with two different actions for opening.
  • Avoid using gates that have been painted or varnished after their last use, as the finish might contain hazardous chemicals.
3. High Chairs
  • Choose a high chair with a wide base for stability and a metal or wooden frame, not solely plastic.
  • Ensure all screws, tubing caps, and bolts are in place and secure.
  • Verify that locks and catches are functional.
  • Confirm the removable tray locks securely and cannot be pulled off.
  • Inspect for sharp edges or cracks on the plastic tray.
  • Ensure no exposed foam on padded parts.
  • Check for flaking paint or splinters.
  • Confirm the integral five-point harness is in working order.
4. Slings and Carriers
  • While slings and carriers can last through multiple children, purchase from trusted sources.
  • Regularly inspect for wear and tear and ensure all components are in working order.
  • Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe use.
  • Learn more about safe sling and carrier practices.
5. Cots (Cribs)
  • Reusing an old cot is possible, but review assembly instructions.
  • Ensure the cot is clean and in good condition.
  • Replace the mattress if necessary.
  • Check specific requirements for cot safety, such as depth, bar spacing, and the absence of headboards or footboards.
Items Safe for Reuse
Certain baby items can be reused without significant concerns:
  • Clothes
  • Baby baths
By making informed choices about which baby items to purchase new, reuse, or replace, you can provide your second child with a safe and sustainable start in life. Sustainable parenting is not only about caring for your baby but also about preserving our environment for future generations.
B
Britany
10 Oct 2023

Just got a box from enfamil, it feels like it's been so long lol, imma reuse it for a keepsake box even though my baby is a girl šŸ„°šŸ˜

Prepping for baby arrival Baby room
2 comments
Z
Zanterria Matthews
How long it took
27 Mar 2024

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B
Britany
I had honestly forgotten about it
27 Mar 2024

Answer

S
Steph
7 Aug 2022

Any advice for saving money on baby gear? Thereā€™s so much still left to buy and itā€™s going to be a financial struggle.

Prepping for baby arrival Baby room
5 comments
C
Candace
I only used half of my stuff with first pregnancy. I would say. -No fancy expensive stroller -No huge play pen until next year - Find out which bottle you prefer stick to that brand. Donā€™t just be buying randoms - Check your local bargain store(Dirt Cheap, Ollies,)for pampers -Check DollarGeneral for baby hygiene and use the app for coupons
27 Mar 2024

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P
Patricia
Wat all do you need?
27 Mar 2024

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M
Mama26Buttheads
30 Apr 2022

Iā€™m using Afterpay as an affordable way to buy baby gear. It allows you to breakdown payments into four smaller payments. I just wanted to share in case someone might want to use it. Hey! Shop now and pay later in 4 interest-free payments. Try Afterpay using my code AMBER-7F3QR and youā€™ll get $10 off your first purchase. Minimum purchase of $50. Terms apply. https://afterpayus.app.link/sZn3J8SaEpb

Prepping for baby arrival Baby room
4 comments
J
Jaimaree TheresašŸ’•
Love Afterpay! I do the same thing
27 Mar 2024

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M
Mama26Buttheads
I found it on the buybuy baby app and graco website. šŸ˜ƒ
27 Mar 2024

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