Buying Secondhand: 40 Items You Should Never Buy New

Here are 40 things you should be buying secondhand. You might be surprised!

Decluttering and living simply often means making smarter choices about what we bring into our homes. You can be mindful about what you bring into your home AND save money.

Before you turn up your nose at the thought of buying used items, let’s dive into a list of 40 things you should consider purchasing secondhand rather than new. You might be surprised by how much you can save.

1. Textbooks

Buy secondhand textbooks. Why pay full price when you can grab a used textbook for a fraction of the cost? Trust me, the information is just as good, even if the cover is a little worn.

2. Cars

Definitely buy secondhand cars. New cars lose a huge chunk of their value the minute you drive them off the lot. Buying a slightly used car is like letting someone else pay for that first big drop in value while you still get a reliable set of wheels.

Take your time and look around. My most recent car was 8 years old and only had 30k miles on it! Be diligent in your efforts, and don’t be enticed by shiny new cars, as they also have shiny new price tags.

3. Video Games

Pre-owned video games are just as fun but a lot cheaper. Plus, once you’re done, you can resell them and get some of your money back!

My little ones like to buy used video games and then sell them back once they are bored or done with the game.

Do you know what’s even better than buying used video games? Borrowing them. See if your local library will let you check any out. Our local library has lots of Switch games they loan out like library books.

4. Furniture

Yes, you can buy quality secondhand furniture that doesn’t give you the heebie-jeebies.

You’d be amazed at the quality of secondhand furniture you can find: a little sanding, a new coat of paint, and voila! Before you know it, you have a beautiful piece that’s way cheaper than new and has character, too.

5. Designer Clothing

High-end clothes can burn a hole in your wallet faster than you can say “on sale.” Buying used designer clothing is a great way to look fabulous without the financial guilt trip.

Poshmark and Thredup can be a great place to look for designer clothes without the brand new price. We used to live in a town with a clothing consignment store with designer pieces as well. I once bought a $400 pair of blue jeans for $22. It was a steal!

6. Musical Instruments

Instruments often improve with age—kind of like wine and certain people we all know. Why not buy a used one that’s been broken in and sounds just right?

7. Puppies and Kittens

Puppies and kittens are HARD work. Rather than buying a brand new puppy or kitten, go to the local animal shelter and get an animal that needs a new home.

Our very best dog came from a no-kill shelter and was three years old when we adopted him.

8. Baby Gear

From strollers to high chairs, babies need a lot of stuff. But they don’t need new stuff.

Babies aren’t going to care if their stroller has a few miles on it. Just make sure to check for recalls and safety standards.

9. Appliances

A gently used toaster or blender can be just as good as a new one, especially if you’re buying from someone who decided they preferred takeout after all.

We purchased our current Kitchen Aid hand mixer for $4 at our local Goodwill. I plugged it into the wall at the store to make sure it worked and used my old whisks from my broken mixer. It was an exciting find!

10. Lawn Tools

Items like lawnmowers, hedge trimmers, and rakes can be pricey when purchased new, but you can often find used ones in great condition. Just check that everything is in working order before you buy. Your plants won’t care if your tools are secondhand!

11. Books

Unless you’re a collector looking for a first edition, buying books used is a no-brainer. Plus, it’s way more satisfying to get that whole stack for a few bucks at a garage sale or a local library’s used book sale.

12. Vinyl Records

For all you audiophiles out there, used vinyl is a treasure trove. Plus, those crackles and pops only add to the charm!

13. Vintage Jewelry

New jewelry has its appeal, but secondhand jewelry will lead you to some beautiful, unique pieces with both history and character. Vintage jewelry is often more affordable and can add a classic touch to your collection.

14. Electronics

Refurbished electronics are a smart choice. They’re tested, certified, and often come with warranties, but they cost a lot less than new.

15. Cell Phones

Buying the latest model cell phone can cost a fortune. Consider buying a previous-generation phone that’s in good shape and does everything you need (and probably more).

16. Comic Books

Whether you’re collecting for nostalgia or investment, buying used comics can save you a lot. You might even stumble upon a rare find!

17. Exercise Equipment

Buy exercise equipment secondhand, and let’s be honest—if you don’t use it, at least you didn’t pay full price. I’ve seen more treadmills being used as clothes drying racks than as exercise equipment.

18. Artwork

Find beautiful pieces of art at thrift stores, flea markets, or online marketplaces. You don’t need to spend a fortune to have something beautiful on your wall.

19. Tools

Both hand tools and power tools can be found used at much lower prices, and they often have a lot of life left in them.

If you really want to find a good deal, hit up a local estate sale in the rural areas near you. Facebook Marketplace can also be a great tool for searching.

20. Baking Supplies

Items like cake pans, cookie cutters, and specialty baking tools are often used infrequently, making them perfect to buy secondhand. Many people purchase these items for a single event or project, meaning you can find gently used baking supplies for a fraction of the original price.

21. Recreational Equipment

Items like rollerblades, skateboards, or fishing gear are great to buy used, especially if you’re just trying out a new hobby. These items can be pricey when bought new, but secondhand options allow you to experiment without a big financial commitment. If you end up loving the sport, you can always invest in new gear later.

We recently bought my daughter a new bike at Play It Again Sports and sold her old one to them.

22. Boats

For those with a taste for adventure, buying a used boat can be a big money saver. Just make sure you don’t have to bail water out every time you hit the lake.

23. Formal Wear

Need a suit or dress for a one-time event? Go secondhand! You’ll look just as sharp without the high cost, and you won’t feel guilty if you accidentally spill some red wine.

I once found a new dress I LOVED in a high-end department store. I was really hesitant to spend the money for a one-time event. I searched online, and I found it used for 20% of the total price!

If you really want to keep your closets clutter-free, you can rent a dress or find other sustainable, rental options here.

24. Board Games

Used board games are perfect for family game nights. Missing a piece? Just improvise. It adds to the fun!

25. Camping Gear

A secondhand tent or sleeping bag can save you money and is often just as functional. Besides, camping is about getting closer to nature, not your credit card limit.

26. Home Decor

Thrift stores, garage sales, and flea markets are full of unique decor items that can make your house feel like a home, without looking like everyone else’s home.

27. Handheld Gadgets

From e-readers to handheld game consoles, you can find great deals on gadgets that are just slightly used. Why pay full price when you can get the same fun for less?

28. Funky Mugs

If you love funky mugs, these are the best to buy used! We have a goal to have no two mugs that look alike, so everytime we lose one, we go on the hunt for the perfect new one.

29. Specialty Kitchen Gadgets

Items like bread makers, waffle irons, and ice cream machines are fun to use but often end up tucked away in cabinets. These gadgets are perfect to buy used because they’re often in excellent condition and significantly cheaper than buying new. Plus, if you find you don’t use them often, you won’t feel guilty about the expense.

30. Formal Dining Sets

China sets and formal dining ware are often passed down or sold after being barely used. Buying secondhand allows you to find beautiful, often vintage, dinnerware at a fraction of the cost. It’s a great way to add elegance to your dining table without spending a fortune.

31. Maternity Clothes

Maternity wear is typically only needed for a few months, so buying it used can save you money. Plus, you’re more likely to find a variety of styles secondhand without the guilt of spending too much on temporary clothing.

32. Office Furniture

Desks, office chairs, filing cabinets—these items are often found for great prices when bought secondhand. Many offices upgrade their furniture regularly, so you can find quality items that have barely been used.

33. Cookware

High-quality pots, pans, and cast-iron skillets can be costly when new. Buying secondhand cookware can be a smart way to get durable, long-lasting kitchen tools for a fraction of the price. A well-seasoned cast iron skillet, for example, might even be better used than new!

34. Construction Materials

Need to renovate? Check out secondhand stores for reclaimed wood, doors, or fixtures. It’s a great way to save money and add character to your space.

Habitat for Humanity’s Restore is great for used or slightly imperfect construction supplies.

35. Plants and Garden Supplies

Garden pots, planters, and other gardening supplies are ideal for buying secondhand. People often sell these items after moving or redecorating their gardens, and you can find great deals on high-quality pots, tools, and other supplies to enhance your green space.

I’ve even found used houseplants on sale for almost free!

36. Sewing Machines

Sewing machines are another item that’s great to buy secondhand. Many people purchase them with the intention of starting a new hobby but end up using them only a few times. A used sewing machine can often be found at a lower price and still function like new, especially if it’s from a reputable brand known for durability.

37. Baby Clothes

Babies grow quickly, often outgrowing their clothes after just a few wears.

Buying used baby clothes can save you a lot of money without sacrificing quality. Many secondhand stores and online marketplaces offer bundles of gently used clothes that are perfect for your growing little one.

38. Tool Storage

Every estate sale I’ve ever been to has a rolling tool storage container for half of what they cost in the store. Plus, it may even come with some handy tools!

39. Seasonal Decorations

Holiday decorations, such as Christmas ornaments, Halloween decor, or even garden gnomes, are often used only for a short period each year. Buying these items secondhand can save money and provide a unique selection that you wouldn’t find in stores, giving your home a personalized touch during the festive seasons.

40. Handbags

Get a designer look for less by purchasing gently used handbags. Your wallet (and your outfit) will thank you.

Buying Secondhand Can Save You Money

Buying used doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or style. It’s about making smarter choices that fit both your budget and your lifestyle. Plus, by opting for secondhand items, you’re doing your part to reduce waste and live more sustainably.

So, the next time you’re thinking about buying something new, consider giving it a second life instead. Your wallet—and the planet—will thank you!