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Shopping for a secondhand stroller can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. As a mom, I’ve learned so much about what to look for through my own trial and error. When I was expecting my son in 2023, I decided to explore secondhand options for our first stroller. I turned to Facebook Marketplace and eBay, thinking I’d find a good deal. But honestly, the experience was exhausting.
Most listings didn’t include crucial details like the stroller’s manufacture date or how many years it had been used. Some had only a few blurry pictures and almost no description. I spent hours sifting through posts and messaging sellers for information, only to realize many of the strollers had been used for years and were in less-than-ideal condition. Feeling frustrated, I ended up buying a brand-new UPPAbaby Vista. While it’s a fantastic stroller, it was pricey, and I couldn’t help but think there had to be a better way to buy quality secondhand strollers.
When my son started daycare, we needed a lightweight travel stroller. Determined to avoid the mistakes I made the first time, I revisited the secondhand market – but this time, I had more experience as a mom. I knew exactly what to look for, and the search was much smoother. This successful purchase showed me that with the right tips and tools, buying secondhand doesn’t have to be so daunting.
This personal journey is part of what inspired me to create Babymint, a curated marketplace for secondhand baby and kid products. On Babymint, every stroller listing includes required details like the manufacture date, purchase date, and condition, as well as multiple high-quality photos. Our platform makes it easy for buyers to filter and find exactly what they’re looking for without guesswork.
Here are some tips I’ve learned along the way to help you confidently shop for a secondhand stroller:
Know Your Needs
Think about how and where you’ll be using the stroller. When I bought my first stroller, I needed something sturdy for daily commutes on New York City’s bumpy sidewalks. Later, I realized a lightweight travel stroller was essential for daycare drop-offs and family trips. Your lifestyle should guide your choice – whether it’s a full-size stroller, a compact travel option, or a double stroller for twins and siblings.
Set a Budget
It’s easy to get carried away when scrolling through listings. Decide on a budget before you start searching. Secondhand strollers often sell for 30-70% of their original retail price, depending on their condition and brand. Premium brands like UPPAbaby and Bugaboo hold their value, so expect to pay a bit more for those.
Look for Key Details
When shopping secondhand, make sure the listing includes essential information, like the stroller’s:
- Manufacture date: This helps you gauge its age and compliance with safety standards. Ensure the stroller was manufactured in 2015 or later. In 2015, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission implemented updated federal safety standards that strollers must meet.
- Condition: Pay close attention to notes on wear and tear, such as scratches, stains, or loose parts. Additionally, ask if any parts, like wheels, straps, or padding, have been replaced or repaired. This will help ensure the stroller is still in good working order and safe for use.
- Accessories: Some strollers come with extras like rain covers, cup holders, or car seat adapters. These add value and convenience.
On Babymint, we require sellers to include these details, so you don’t have to chase down information or second-guess your purchase.
Trust Curated Platforms
One of my biggest frustrations with general marketplaces was how time-consuming it was to sift through incomplete or unclear listings. That’s why I built Babymint to address these pain points. On Babymint, every stroller listing includes required details like the manufacture date, years of use, and multiple high-quality photos. Plus, our platform automatically checks for recalls, so you can shop with confidence knowing that no recalled products are listed.
Do a Quick Quality Check
If you’re meeting a seller in person, take a few minutes to check the stroller thoroughly. Look for any wobbly wheels, worn-out fabrics, or broken parts. Make sure the brakes and folding mechanisms work smoothly. While some wear is normal, ensure there are no major stains or odors. If you can’t see it in person first, ask for a video demonstration to avoid surprises.
Negotiate, but Be Respectful
It’s okay to make an offer, especially if the listing has been up for a while, but keep it fair. Remember, another parent is on the other side of the transaction, likely trying to recoup some of their investment.
Why Babymint?
Creating Babymint was my way of solving the challenges I faced as a mom shopping for secondhand baby gear. We’ve designed the platform to save parents time and provide peace of mind by curating detailed, accurate listings and ensuring safety checks are built into the process. Whether you’re searching for your first stroller or upgrading to a travel-friendly option, I hope these tips – and Babymint – make the journey smoother for you.
Happy stroller hunting!
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