Strollers are covered with washable materials so considering a used stroller is an economic idea. Often used strollers have lots of use left in them and can be inexpensive enough so that you can upgrade to a higher end model. There is one additional consideration before shopping for used strollers, and this goes for all thrift shopping, try to look in neighborhoods that are economically better off than your own neighborhood. You get better stuff in better neighborhoods. Of course, other than the note above, the same considerations in choosing a new stroller apply to buying a used stroller. It is important to make some decisions before you stop at that first yard sale or consignment shop. While you think that the one you see first is perfect, or not, should depend on the standards you have already set for any stroller you would consider for your baby. Each decision helps narrow the types of strollers to consider. You should also do some price research before you go shopping for a used stroller. Know what each type of stroller is worth new and have an idea of which models are low or high end of their particular type of stroller type. Often on Web-base auction sites, bidders spend more on an used stroller than they would on buying that stroller brand new. That can happen when buying a used stroller any place. Unique to buying a used stroller is condition. A new stroller has the backing of the retail store and the manufacturer, a used stroller is as-is and buyer beware. No worries, you know what you are doing. Inspect the stroller carefully. Use a check list. Start with the overall appearance. How worn does it look close up? The frame and wheels are the most important parts of any used stroller. Are they in good shape? Are the wheels loose in there sockets. Are the broken? Can they be replaced? Figure in how much it would cost to replace the wheels; is the used stroller still a good buy? Is the frame nice and shinny? Do all the adjustments work easily? Is every safety cover on latches and hooks where it is supposed to be? Are there any places where tiny or parents' fingers could get pinched? Make sure you fold up any used stroller that you consider. If it does not fold or is difficult to fold, that will annoy you every time you use the stroller. The difficult-to-fold used stroller might be best passed by. Take the cushions out, turn them over. Look for any tears, cuts and splits. Smell them. Bad odors probably cannot be removed and that stroller is probably best left where it is. Surface dirt may show that the current owner did not take care of the stroller while it lived with him or her. That may also be a reason to leave that used stroller behind. Buying a used stroller has it challenges, but has rewards also. Use your judgment, with caution and a bit of disinfectant, you can get a really good deal on a used stroller.
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You can find a helpful used stroller buying guide and additional information on how to buy stroller to help in your baby gear buying decisions at Aha! Baby.