By going used, you can often get more stroller for less money.  Most new parents will find they want more than one stroller for different needs.  Pre-owned lets you afford more than one. 

And what if you find you purchased the wrong stroller for your needs?  Sell it or pass it on.  Or you make a good intentioned impulse buy?  Would you rather spend $100 for a hiking stroller that you use once or $500?

Where to Find Used Baby Gear

*  One of the best sources of economical baby gear is yard sales, flea markets and second hand shops.  Prices are usually very reasonable and you can see the merchandise first hand.  The main downside to these sources is limited choices.  Each yard sale is likely to have one, maybe two strollers at most.

*  Online ads like Craigslist and Penny Saver throw aways.  Again you have a limited selection per advertiser and you may run all over town only to be disappointed when the merchandise quality does not match the ad.

*  Your sister or friends or pretty much any well intentioned person you know.  If someone wants to give you their used stroller and it fits your needs, great!  But odds are it won’t fit your needs.  And you won’t want to make a friend feel badly that you really don’t want the stroller they used for all three of their now college aged children.

*  Online auctions.  You cannot beat online auctions for price and selection of used baby gear, especially strollers.  Stick with the major auctions for a secure shopping experience.  The top auction sites make sure their sellers give accurate information and buyer’s recourse when they don’t.  You can contact a seller with questions about condition, etc., if you choose.  Note auction sites will usually sell both new and used merchandise.

Safety First

*  The number one consideration when buying any stroller, new or used is it’s safety features.  And the number one safety feature is quality.  Bargain strollers often skimp on safety and they tend not to last as long either.

*  A 5-point harness system is ideal for active babies.  And let’s face it, all babies are active at times.  If given a choice between a 3-point harness and a 5-point harness, I would choose the 5-point harness every time. 

*  Does the stroller feel sturdy?  Since you will be doing your homework (see below) you will have an idea which strollers feel sturdy.  Have you ever seen a stroller with only a baby in it?  Nope, me neither.  Take into account that you will likely be hanging your shopping bag from the handle or stowing the diaper bag under the seat.

*  Are the tires and overall condition of the stroller good?  This is a question to ask the seller if their auction description and pictures do not adequately give you this information.

*  If it has wheels it has brakes.  Make sure the braking mechanism is working well.

*  Use your eyes.  Does the seat look saggy?  Is the harness frayed?  Does the stroller look fresh or frazzled?  There are innumerable mint condition used strollers available.  You do not have to settle for junk.

*  See the last bullet under do your homework.  Check for recalls.

Do Your Homework

*  Know what types of strollers are available and compare them to your lifestyle.

*  When buying from an auction, don’t hesitate to contact the seller with questions or to request more pictures.  Most sellers are happy to communicate with you and want to represent exactly what they are selling so their buyers are satisfied.

*  Talk to your friends and check out online forums for suggestions and recommendations.

*  Know prices on new products so you have a basis for comparison with a pre-owned product.

*  Ask the seller for manufacturer information and look it up online.  You want to make sure the stroller you are buying was not recalled.  The Consumer Product Safety Commission is a good source for recalls as is the manufacturer themselves.

Welcome to the Joy of Parenthood and Baby in Tow

Parenting can be a joy and some days a trial.  One thing is for sure.  You and baby are going to be on the go.  Whether it be to the market, sitter, grandma’s house or a safari, you and baby will be on the move. 

A good stroller is an essential investment.  Enjoy it.  Soon enough baby will be auto mobile and running on two feet rather than rolling on wheels.  And you will long for the stroller days.