Pediatrician Warns Against Buying These Baby Items Secondhand

The doctor (and mom) has a simple rule: If it's for your baby's sleep or safety, buy it new.

Mar. 25, 2026 at 12:42am

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A pediatric emergency medicine doctor is advising parents to avoid buying certain baby gear secondhand, including cribs, car seats, and bassinets. These items can degrade over time and may not meet current safety standards. The doctor also cautions against purchasing banned products like inclined sleepers and crib bumpers, as well as potentially dangerous toys like Aqua Beads. However, the doctor says books, age-appropriate toys, and most clothing are generally safe to buy used.

Why it matters

Baby products are constantly being updated with new safety standards, so even gear used for an older child may no longer be considered safe. Buying new ensures parents have the latest safety features and that the product hasn't been damaged through prior use. This advice aims to help parents make informed decisions to keep their babies as safe as possible.

The details

The doctor, Elizabeth Murray, D.O., M.B.A., a pediatric emergency medicine doctor and spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics, says parents should never buy used items related to a baby's sleep or safety, such as cribs, car seats, and bassinets. These products can degrade over time and may not meet current regulations. She also warns against purchasing banned items like inclined sleepers and crib bumpers, as well as potentially dangerous toys like Aqua Beads. However, the doctor says books, age-appropriate toys, and most clothing are generally safe to buy secondhand.

  • New side-impact protection laws for car seats went into effect in 2025.
  • New rules around mini cribs and play yards also went into effect in 2025.
  • New safety standards for crib mattresses are set to go into effect in May 2026.

The players

Elizabeth Murray, D.O., M.B.A.

A pediatric emergency medicine doctor at Golisano Children's Hospital at the University of Rochester in Rochester, New York, and a spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Joe Shamie

Co-President of Delta Children, a manufacturer of baby gear.

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What they’re saying

“Thrifting has become cool, touted by social media influencers. In general my rule and guidance is you should never get used baby items that have to do with safety.”

— Elizabeth Murray, D.O., M.B.A., Pediatric emergency medicine doctor

“If it's a product that is meant for you to be able to leave your baby unattended, like a crib or bassinet, you should absolutely buy new. Regulations are looser for products marked 'never leave your baby unattended' because they assume a parent's presence and vigilance.”

— Joe Shamie, Co-President, Delta Children

What’s next

The doctor suggests parents talk to their pediatrician if they have any doubts about the safety of a secondhand baby product.

The takeaway

This advice highlights the importance of prioritizing baby safety over cost savings when it comes to essential gear like cribs, car seats, and bassinets. While thrifting can be a great way to save money, certain baby products should always be purchased new to ensure they meet the latest safety standards and have not been damaged through prior use.