14 Common Things You Should Avoid Buying At Thrift Stores Even If You Really Need To

Each time you go treasure-hunting in a vintage or antique shop, it's best you think twice before purchasing some earlier-owned items. Pairs of shoes, including a fine crystal vase, might be unsanitary and can be very dangerous bringing such into your home.

Bright Humanity cares a lot about the health of our readers, so we have compiled a warning list so you can be extremely careful when purchasing things at a secondhand mall.

#1 An Antique Crystal

Ancient crystal vessels are good for vintage collection, but most currently contains an estimated 30% of lead oxide. The use of crystal in serving food and drinks can be dangerous to one’s health.

#2 Dishware

Teacups, bowls, and plates, according to the Center For Environmental Health equally entails dangerous chemicals. Besides, you never can tell what has been on the purchased dish.

#3 Pair Of Shoes

Don’t be tempted buying a pair of vintage shoes at secondhand stores. The game is not worth the drama. Buying already used shoes puts you at risk of getting skin infections. Interestingly, the shoe has taken the shape of the previous owner's feet and that might make you uncomfortable to wear. Nevertheless, if there’s still a tag on the pair of shoes, they are quite safe to wear.

#4 Vacuum Cleaners

Bedbugs, dirt and even dust can accumulate in any dust bag and in the tiniest corner of a vacuum cleaner. Purchasing such home equipment from a drift store is a kind of win as you never know what allergies you bringing in.

#5 Stuffed Animals

When buying a stuffed animal for your child, it’s best to keep in mind your child touches, chews and even hugs the toy. Already-used mostly serves as storage for germs, allergens, mold, fleas, and bedbugs. Washing such toys in hot water isn’t always reliable as germs can withstand hot temperatures.

#6 Electronics

Used electric equipment can break after purchasing it, but it can equally damage all the wiring in your home, causing a power outage and even fire. When purchasing any devices – old or new, always check them or perhaps contact a specialist.

#7 Construction Equipment

Windows and doors can have termites and even bugs. Manufactured before the 1980s, they might also contain lead. Thus, if you find a window or door that you really like, it’s best to do a lead paint test.

#8 Beds

It can be challenging to find mattresses in a regular thrift store. On the other hand, it’s not a good idea to purchase an already-used mattress. You likely might be bringing home all sorts of things, including mites, germs, fleas, and bugs. Beds equally carry fluids of earlier owners and can also pass on infections.

#9 Cribs

Yes! A crib can look all new and clean, but it’s best not to invest in it. Instead, buy for your children a brand new crib.

#10 Pillows

Already-used fabric can put you at risk for a bedbug invasion. Bedbugs, according to the Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at Oklahoma State University, can live up to a year in upholstered pieces. Why not check out low-budget pillows on Amazon and save your home from health issues.

#11 Already-Used Cookware

Cookware can appear all pretty but still are not safe for cooking food. Used cookware can have dangerous metals and chemicals in them. It’s best to buy vintage kitchen supplies for decoration.

#12 Rain Gear

Rubber boots, including waterproof clothing, can be destroyed after being washed or after being used during a storm. It would cost less to buy new boots rather than buying old ones to wear.

#13 Helmets

Helmets for bikes and motorcycles can undoubtedly withstand an impact. But it’s safer to just get a new one. Helmets, including hats, can carry lice and numerous infections

#14 Used Rugs

Already-used rugs have decades of allergens and stains in them. Purchasing a new rug might be more expensive, but in all the end, it’s safer for your health.