Designers often take pride in using antiques and thrifted items to bring personality into a home. Not to mention, thrifting and antique shopping can sometimes be a more affordable and sustainable option than relying on traditional retailers. But before you fill your home or car with second-hand items, keep in mind: There are some things you should never buy at a thrift store — no matter how tempting the price tag.
Textiles like mattresses, stuffed animals and bedding could harbor bed bugs, while older furniture and electronics can pose a safety risk — especially to children. “We love a good treasure hunt, but there are a few things we’ll always leave behind,” says Amy Leferink, owner and principal designer of Interior Impressions. Below, two pro designers share the items they always avoid at the thrift store.
Mattresses
“Anything that can’t be thoroughly cleaned or disinfected — like used mattresses — is a no-go,” says Amy Leferink. A second-hand mattress will likely lack support, plus they might harbor dust mites, bed bugs, bacteria, mold and allergens.
Electronics and appliances
Vintage speakers, antique lighting and old televisions may look charming, but thrifted electronics could have faulty wiring, which could pose a fire or electric shock risk. “Anything involving electrical wiring — like old lamps or appliances — are a hard no for me,” says Honey Collins, founder of Honey Collins Interiors. “Safety comes first, and there’s just no way to guarantee those items are up to standard, no matter how beautiful or nostalgic they may appear.”
Functional cookware or glassware
Be weary of using thrift finds in the kitchen. Regulations regarding lead weren’t put in place until 1971, so painted dishes and crystal glassware may contain traces — especially dangerous if the items are cracked or chipped.
“When looking for kitchen items at thrift stores, we usually prefer to focus on decorative pieces rather than functional cookware such as dinnerware, serving dishes, glassware or antique cookware that can elevate your kitchen or dining room’s aesthetic,” says Leferink.
Certain items, like cast iron and enamelware, may be safe to use on a regular basis, but “always inspect carefully for cracks, chips or peeling coating,” adds Collins.
Baby furniture
“While thrifting accessories and artwork for a nursery can be fun, it’s best to steer clear of baby furniture,” says Leferink. “These items can become outdated, and their warranty lifespan might have passed. Since baby furniture safety standards are continuously updated, purchasing new pieces is the safest option.”
Second-hand baby furniture might not meet current safety standards or could have hidden damage, such as cracks, loose parts or missing hardware. “A sweet old crib may look darling, but it could pose a real risk — it’s not worth the gamble,” says Collins.
Car seats and strollers
A thrifted car seat or stroller could have hidden damage that presents a safety risk, and there’s no way to guarantee the model meets current safety standards. Keep in mind, car seats should be replaced if they’re involved in an accident and have expiration dates.
Helmets
Not only can thrifted helmets carry lice and other potential infections, they’re likely unsafe. After significant impact, you must replace a bike helmet — even if it doesn’t look damaged, because the foam lining could be compressed.
Stuffed animals
Even if you machine-wash a second-hand stuffed animal, odors and allergens can linger. Not to mention the risk of bedbugs, bacteria and dust mites — it’s just not worth it.
Bedding
Similarly, thrifted bedding — like sheets, comforters and pillows — could harbor bed bugs, dust mites and allergens that are difficult to clear completely. That doesn’t mean you have to stay away from all textiles, according to Collins. “It depends on the piece and your tolerance for a little elbow grease. Vintage rugs? Yes, absolutely — if they’re in good shape and can be professionally cleaned. As for upholstered items, I look for good bones — with plans to reupholster. Linens and pillows, though? I’d pass.”
Damaged rattan or wicker furniture
Think twice about buying those worn woven chairs, cabinets or side tables that you spotted on a thrift store run. Rattan and wicker furniture can be difficult — and very expensive — to restore, so it’s best to avoid it, even if the price seems right.
Wood cutting boards
Don’t waste money on a thrifted wood cutting board, unless you plan to use it as decor. Even with a deep clean, it can be challenging to remove bacteria embedded within the wood’s pores.
Baby toys
Babies and small children outgrow toys quickly, so it’s not a bad idea to source second-hand items — but it’s crucial to consider hygiene and safety. Don’t thrift any baby toys that can’t be throughly washed and sanitized. Diligently check for any broken or loose parts that could be dangerous for little ones.
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.
