Tips on Resale Shopping for Expectant Moms
The first thing a new mom will learn is that babies grow fast. Their
needs will seem to change almost daily during the first couple of years!
You will quickly see that satisfying all those needs can expensive!
So, how do parents cope? One solution could be to depend on baby showers and hand-me-downs, but that won't get you very far. Grandparents might help, too, but only so much. Face it - you will have to go shopping eventually!
Have you shopped resale lately?
Perhaps you're already a garage sale junkie or have a basic understanding
of second-hand bargains. You might not enjoy battling the heat or rummaging
through mountains of stained or out-of-date clothes and toys just to
find a bargain, though.
Resale shops are not what they used to be. If you haven't checked them out recently, you might be surprised. Instead of musty junk shops, you're more likely to find cozy little baby-friendly stores full of clean and desirable merchandise. They offer many brands and styles, huge discounts, and staff who have first-hand experience with children. Resale devotees range from anyone looking for great deals on specific name brands to single-income families trying to make ends meet.
Why resale?
While there are many reasons to shop resale, most parents do so for
the bargains. And, you don't have to be pinching pennies to appreciate
a good bargain!
As you will soon find out, children rarely wear out their clothes because they don't wear them long enough. In fact, they probably won't even wear everything you have for them. Babies grow at unpredictable rates, and you cannot depend on the manufacturer's sizes to match your own baby's age. The same issues apply to toys and all the rest of the equipment that babies use.
Of course, you wouldn't expect to pay full price for something that isn't brand new, so resale shops generally price their merchandise at less than half of retail prices (based on condition, style and demand).
• If you're interested in reselling your own child's clothes and toys, ask for specific policies, as each store operates differently. Usually, merchandise must be clean, in good condition, and relatively current styles. Some stores love vintage, but others do not.
Another distinct advantage of a resale shop is the selection. The merchandise generally comes from dozens of families – each one having different tastes, financial backgrounds, and resources. Clothing is typically organized by gender and size, so you can compare each item and make choices based on your own preferences and needs, not on what a store buyer in another state has decided for you. Also, each brand will fit differently. Since most of the clothes are already worn and preshrunk, you can see how it will really look and fit after washing.
Toys and other equipment are generally available for testing, so you can see what amuses your toddler before buying it. Grandparents can stock their house for a fraction of the cost and keep grandchildren entertained with different toys than at home. Need a second stroller, swing, or high chair? Something for a road trip that is maybe smaller than the one you already have? Or are cousins coming to visit and you suddenly need two of everything? There are so many needs that can be easily filled without visiting the mega-stores.
How do you make smart choices?
The first rule of resale shopping is to shop often, as inventory probably
changes daily. You should also get to know the owners and let them know
if you have any specific needs. Many shops have a wish-list system for
specific products.
Each store has different policies on what types of merchandise they will sell. Some won't sell any equipment because of safety recall issues. Others are more full-service, but you should be conscientious and check for recalls yourself (even if the store does it).
Most resale shops get their merchandise from growing families - it is the ultimate in recycling. Stores either buy outright or operate on consignment (pay the consignor after the items sell). Either way, the inventory is always changing. If you're a frequent shopper, perhaps they'll call you when they get a batch in just your style or size needs. Be sure to check on the return policy, and try on the clothes if it's an issue. Most stores are accommodating, but returns aren't easy like at the big chains. Store credit is more common than actual refunds.
Need more reasons?
Resale shops that cater to kids are usually kid-friendly. The owners
and staff are often moms who can tolerate tantrums, poopy diapers, or
urgent potty breaks pretty well. You'll be treated graciously when you
need to nurse your baby, and you might even find a quiet comfy chair
(not in the bathroom).
Play areas are often the standard. Even if there isn't a specific area, your kids will probably be allowed to touch the merchandise, make noise and might get some free stickers!
Most of the other customers are parents, too, so you don't have to worry about your kids making a scene. You could make new friends, get advice from another mom, or just shop in air-conditioned peace. Some shops also have playgroup information or bulletin boards for other community resources.
When the big stores are shifting their focus to the upcoming
season, you'll still be able to get current-season clothing when your
child has a growth spurt or needs new play-clothes. Don't forget to
take advantage of seasonal clearances to shop ahead for the next year.
At these prices, you can afford to store a box of clothes to grow into.
And, most important, you'll be supporting a family-owned local business
plus all of the other families who are recycling their kids’ things
through that store!