You’ve probably heard buying secondhand is a good way to save more money. And that’s true—if you know how to do it right. That’s because it’s not smart to buy everything used. For safety reasons, it’s wise to stick with brand-new mattresses, certain baby gear and tires, for example. You’ll also want to know the best places to scout out deals, and what to look for to ensure you’re not sacrificing quality.
We’ve rounded up a list of what’s best to buy used—and how to do it right.
1. Workout equipment
Equipment like elliptical machines, dumbbells and stationary bikes tend to be gifted during the holiday season, or bought in the new year with the intention of regular use. But when resolutions fizzle out—as 80% do by February—they often end up collecting dust. Translation: You’ve got a good chance of finding a gently used one for cheap.