When you’re expecting a baby—or already have one—there’s no denying that the cost of all the baby gear can add up quickly. Cribs, strollers, car seats, high chairs, toys… the list feels endless. So, naturally, many parents start considering secondhand options. It’s budget-friendly, sustainable, and let’s face it—some of that gear is barely used by the time babies grow out of it.

But when it comes to your baby’s safety, not everything is worth the risk. So here’s the big question: is it safe to buy used baby cribs and strollers?

We’re diving deep into this today. We’ll talk about what’s okay to buy used, what’s not, and what you need to check before saying yes to a pre-loved crib or stroller. Because saving money is great—but not at the expense of safety.

Let’s get into it.

Buying Used Baby Cribs and Strollers: The Pros and Cons

Before we start going through safety checks and tips, let’s weigh the pros and cons. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you see the full picture:

So yes, there are definite upsides. But when it comes to baby items like cribs and strollers, you need to be extra cautious. Let’s break this down even more.

What to Check Before Buying a Used Baby Crib or Stroller

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. What exactly should you look for when buying a secondhand crib or stroller? Here’s your checklist.

1. Check for Recalls

This is the first thing you should do. Baby gear gets recalled more often than you might think. Go to the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) website and search the brand and model number of the item.

If the crib or stroller has been recalled—even if it looks brand new—skip it. It’s not worth the risk.

2. Verify Safety Standards

Safety regulations for cribs changed in 2011 in the U.S. Any crib made before that is automatically a no-go. One of the biggest changes was the ban on drop-side cribs, which were linked to serious injuries and even deaths.

For strollers, newer models often come with better braking systems, more secure harnesses, and better materials. Look for JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) certification—it’s a sign the product meets current safety standards.

3. Inspect for Damage or Missing Parts

This might sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how often people overlook tiny cracks or missing screws. With cribs, make sure all slats are secure, evenly spaced (no more than 2 3/8 inches apart), and that the mattress fits snugly.

For strollers, check the wheels, brakes, buckles, and folding mechanism. Try everything out. If something feels loose or jammed, that’s a red flag.

4. Ask for the Manual

Having the original manual is incredibly helpful, especially for cribs. You’ll want to reassemble it properly—and if there’s a step missing or done incorrectly, that could create a serious safety issue.

If the seller doesn’t have the manual, you can sometimes find it online with the brand and model number. But make sure it’s the exact match.

5. Test the Sturdiness

Give the crib a firm shake. It shouldn’t wobble. Press down on the mattress support. Still sturdy? Good. For the stroller, test the brakes, push it around, and see how it handles.

A stroller that pulls to one side or doesn’t brake smoothly could cause trouble on a walk—especially if you’re dealing with busy sidewalks or uneven terrain.

6. Sanitize Thoroughly

Even if the gear looks clean, it needs a deep clean. Use baby-safe cleaning products and sanitize every surface—especially for strollers, where babies touch and chew on everything.

For cribs, clean the wood or metal thoroughly and use a new crib mattress if possible. Secondhand mattresses can harbor mold, dust mites, and bacteria, even if they look fine.

What’s Safe to Buy Used—and What’s Not?

Here’s a simple list to help you decide what baby items are generally okay to buy used, and which ones you might want to buy new no matter what.

✅ Generally Safe to Buy Used (with proper checks):

• Cribs (made after 2011 and fully intact)
• Strollers (if they meet current safety standards and are in good shape)
• High chairs
• Changing tables
• Baby carriers
• Baby clothes
• Swings or bouncers (as long as they haven’t been recalled and are still sturdy)

❌ Better to Buy New:

• Car seats – These have expiration dates and may have hidden damage from accidents. Always buy new.
• Crib mattresses – Can hide bacteria and lose support over time.
• Breast pumps – Unless it’s a hospital-grade, closed-system model, avoid sharing.
• Pacifiers and bottle nipples – These degrade quickly and are hard to sterilize properly.

So yes, a used crib or stroller can be a totally safe choice—but only if it checks all the boxes.

FAQs

Can I use a crib that’s been in the family for generations?

We get it—family heirlooms can be hard to turn down. But old cribs, especially ones made before 2011, don’t meet modern safety standards. They may have dangerous features like drop sides or too-wide slats. If you really want to use it, you could repurpose it for something decorative, like a reading nook—but not for sleep.

What if a stroller is missing a part—can I just replace it?

Sometimes, yes. If the manufacturer still supports the model, you might be able to order replacement parts. But be cautious. Not all replacement parts are easy to install or come with instructions. If anything structural is broken or missing (like a brake or seatbelt buckle), it’s best to walk away.

Are secondhand cribs safe if I buy a new mattress?

Buying a new mattress is a great step, but the crib itself still needs to meet safety standards. Check the date of manufacture (again—post-2011 is key), look for certification labels, and give it a full inspection for damage or missing parts.

How do I know if a used stroller is the right fit for my lifestyle?

Try it out! Push it around, fold it up, see if it fits in your car. Some strollers are great for city sidewalks; others are made for trails and jogging. Make sure the used stroller you’re buying matches how you plan to use it. If you’re not sure, it’s better to shop around a bit more.

What’s the best place to find quality secondhand baby gear?

Look for local consignment stores that specialize in baby gear—they often inspect and clean items before reselling. Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, and Craigslist are also options, but be more cautious and ask lots of questions. And if you’re buying online, make sure you can inspect it in person before handing over any money.

So, is it safe to buy used baby cribs and strollers? The short answer: yes—but only if you’re willing to do your homework.

Check for recalls. Look up the safety standards. Inspect the gear like your baby’s life depends on it—because it kind of does. Don’t be afraid to walk away if something doesn’t feel right, and when in doubt, buy new for peace of mind.

That said, buying used can be a fantastic way to save money and reduce waste. There’s a lot of great baby gear out there that’s barely been touched—just waiting for a second life with your little one.

Bottom line? Used doesn’t mean unsafe. But it does mean you need to be extra careful. And with this guide, you’ve got everything you need to make a smart, safe choice for your family.