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August 2011 Moms
Winomama
member
Buying used gifts?
Winomama
member
Would you buy used clothes, blankets or toys for a gift for someone else? This got me thinking because I saw a post on a local mom's board for a bag of used clothes for $50 (all without stains or small stains only). The description said perfect gift for a baby shower!
I am certainly not above buying used clothes and toys in good condition for my DS, he has a handful of stuff I found at consignment sales, and I would never turn down hand-me-downs, but I like to get new gifts for people. It's funny because the one mom I do know who buys used gifts for others spends a ton of money on things for herself. I guess everyone chooses how to spend their own money.
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Re: Buying used gifts?
I am not picky, I would happily recieve used gifts, and I have been know to brag a little about all the stuff DS hadbecaue I had gotten great grauge sale deals on some. I did get some used clothes for DS from a second hand store from my parent's freinds but she said that was just because they were all on sale and all had original new tags, those clothes weren't DS's baby gift.
I also gave a few used things to my cousins wife in addition to the real baby gift. But for the most part I would check to see before giving used. My immediate family I woudn't blink an eye because it means I could get them more.
I think it would depend on the situation, but in general, I want the person who receives my gift to be able to exchange it, and a used gift would not meet that criteria. Especially on an occasion where gifts are typically expected (birthday, shower, etc.).
An exception would be if that person wanted a specific item and I knew no one else was getting it for them AND that they didn't mind getting it second hand. - For instance, when DD2 was born, my brother asked me if I needed anything. I asked them for a mobile for her crib, but since those things can be ridiculously expensive, I specifically told them to go ahead and get it second hand.
If it was a random "I just thought you would like it" type of thing, I wouldn't think twice about it and just get the used item (as long as it's in good condition, of course)
I would not buy someone used items as a gift for a birthday or baby shower or anything like that. Like Mama Ha said, I would want them to have the opportunity to return or exchange, if needed. Plus, I just "feel" like new baby gifts should be...well, new.
That said, I would not hesitate to pick up a few things at a consignment sale for the child of a really close friend as a "just because" gift. I have been gifted/given tons of used baby gear by friends and family, and it's very much appreciated - most of the stuff was just as good as new!
For DD's birthday a close friend of mine checked with me about giving DD some used toys that her neighbor's kids were getting rid of. I'm all for reducing waste so I told her it was fine as long as it was all safe and clean and nothing recalled.
But I think it's a good idea to check before buying used items. Some moms are really particular about their kid having brand new things.