15 Things That Make More Sense to Get Pre-Loved, Not New

With fast fashion and disposable goods, it’s easy to fall into the trap of buying everything brand new. However, this habit not only strains our wallets but also takes a heavy toll on the environment.

According to the EPA, in 2018, the average American generated 4.9 pounds of waste per day.¹

Furthermore, the production of new items depletes natural resources and contributes to pollution. But what if there was a way to save money, reduce waste, and still enjoy quality products?

Here are 15 things you should never buy new.

1. Cars

Buying a brand new car can be tempting, but it’s one of the worst financial decisions you can make. A new car loses about 9% of its value the moment you drive it off the lot and continues to depreciate by 20% in the first year.^(ref) 

By opting for a slightly used car, you can save a significant amount of money while still enjoying a reliable vehicle.

When shopping for a used car, look for models that are 2-3 years old with low mileage. These cars have already taken the biggest depreciation hit but still have plenty of life left in them.

Be sure to have the car inspected by a trusted mechanic before making a purchase to ensure there are no hidden issues.

2. Textbooks

College textbooks are notoriously expensive, with some costing hundreds of dollars for a single book. However, there are many ways to avoid paying full price for textbooks.

One option is to buy used books from online marketplaces like Amazon or Chegg.

Another option is to rent textbooks instead of buying them outright. Many online retailers offer textbook rentals for a semester or year at a much lower cost than purchasing the book.

Just be sure to return the book on time to avoid any late fees.

3. Furniture

Buying new furniture can quickly add up, especially if you’re furnishing an entire home. However, there are many great options for finding high-quality used furniture at a fraction of the cost.

One of the best places to look is online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. You can often find gently used furniture from people who are moving or redecorating.

You can also shop at thrift stores or consignment shops. These stores often have a wide selection of furniture at deeply discounted prices.

Just be sure to inspect the furniture carefully for any damage or wear before making a purchase.

4. Clothing

Fast fashion has made it easy to buy cheap, trendy clothing, but it’s also led to a culture of disposable fashion. Instead of buying new clothes every season, consider shopping at thrift stores or consignment shops for gently used clothing.

Try hosting a clothing swap with friends or family members. Everyone brings clothing they no longer wear and trades with others.

This is a great way to refresh your wardrobe without spending any money.

5. Baby Gear

Baby gear can be incredibly expensive, especially when you consider how quickly babies outgrow things like cribs, strollers, and car seats. Instead of buying everything new, consider borrowing or buying used baby gear from friends or family members who no longer need it.

You can also find great deals on used baby gear at consignment shops or online marketplaces. Just be sure to check for any recalls or safety issues before making a purchase, and always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for age and weight limits.

6. Exercise Equipment

Home exercise equipment can be a great investment in your health, but it can also be incredibly expensive. Instead of buying new equipment, consider looking for used options on online marketplaces or at garage sales.

You can often find gently used treadmills, ellipticals, and weight sets for a fraction of the cost of buying new ones.

Try joining a gym or fitness studio instead of investing in home equipment. Many gyms offer flexible membership options that allow you to pay only for the classes or equipment you use.

7. Jewelry

Fine jewelry can be a significant investment, but it’s not always necessary to buy new. Instead, consider shopping at estate sales or antique shops for unique, high-quality pieces at a lower cost.

You can also find great deals on pre-owned jewelry on online marketplaces like eBay or Etsy.

When buying pre-owned jewelry, be sure to have it appraised by a reputable jeweler to ensure it’s authentic and in good condition. You may also want to have the piece cleaned and polished before wearing it.

8. Tools

High-quality tools can be expensive, but they’re often worth the investment if you use them frequently. However, if you only need a tool for a one-time project, consider renting it instead of buying it outright.

Many home improvement stores offer tool rental services for a fraction of the cost.

If you do need to buy tools, consider shopping at estate sales or garage sales for gently used options. You can often find high-quality tools at a much lower cost than buying new ones.

9. Musical Instruments

Learning to play a musical instrument can be a rewarding hobby, but buying a new instrument can be expensive. Instead, consider renting an instrument from a local music store or buying a used instrument from a reputable dealer.

When buying a used instrument, be sure to have it inspected by a professional to ensure it’s in good condition and plays well. You may also want to consider taking lessons from a qualified instructor to ensure you’re using proper technique and care for your instrument.

10. Sporting Goods

Sporting goods like skis, snowboards, and golf clubs can be expensive, especially if you only use them occasionally. Instead of buying new equipment, consider renting it from a local sporting goods store or resort.

Many ski resorts offer rental packages that include skis, boots, and poles for a daily or weekly fee. If you do need to buy sporting goods, consider shopping at consignment shops or online marketplaces for gently used options.

11. Appliances

Major appliances like refrigerators, washers, and dryers can be expensive, but they’re often necessary for daily life. Instead of buying new appliances, consider shopping at scratch and dent stores or outlet stores for discounted options.

These stores often sell appliances with minor cosmetic damage at a much lower cost.

Another option is to buy used appliances from online marketplaces or classified ads. Just be sure to have the appliance inspected by a professional before making a purchase to ensure it’s in good working condition.

12. Pets

Adopting a pet can be a rewarding experience, but buying a purebred pet from a breeder can be expensive. Instead, consider adopting a pet from a local animal shelter or rescue organization.

These organizations often have a wide variety of pets available for adoption at a much lower cost than buying from a breeder.

When adopting a pet, be sure to consider the long-term costs of pet ownership, including food, veterinary care, and grooming. You may also want to consider pet insurance to help cover unexpected medical expenses.

13. Mattresses

A good mattress is essential for a good night’s sleep, but buying a new mattress can be expensive. Instead, consider shopping at outlet stores or online marketplaces for discounted options.

Many mattress stores offer floor models or returned mattresses at a much lower cost.

You can also buy a mattress topper instead of replacing your entire mattress. A high-quality mattress topper can provide additional comfort and support without the cost of a new mattress.

14. Video Games

Video games can be an expensive hobby, especially if you always want the latest releases. Instead of buying new games at full price, consider waiting a few months for the price to drop or shopping for used games at online marketplaces or local game stores.

Another option is to subscribe to a gaming service like Xbox Game Pass or PlayStation Now, which offer access to a large library of games for a monthly fee. This can be a more cost-effective way to enjoy a variety of games without buying each one individually.

15. Formal Wear

Formal wear like tuxedos and evening gowns can be expensive, especially if you only wear them occasionally. Instead of buying new formal wear, consider renting it from a local formalwear shop.

Many shops offer rental packages that include everything you need for a formal event at a much lower cost.

If you do need to buy formal wear, consider shopping at consignment shops or online marketplaces for gently used options.

By being a savvy shopper and knowing which items to avoid buying new, you can save money, reduce waste, and still enjoy high-quality products. By making smart purchasing decisions, you can stretch your budget further and live a more sustainable lifestyle.

Source:

1. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency