Javascript is not enabled.

Javascript must be enabled to use this site. Please enable Javascript in your browser and try again.

Skip to content
Content starts here
CLOSE ×
Search
Leaving AARP.org Website

You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.

5 Things You Shouldn't Buy at Yard Sales (and 6 You Should)

Just because it’s cheap doesn’t mean it’s a deal


spinner image A man looking at an item at a yard sale
Greg Ruffing/Redux

Each year Americans host millions of yard, garage, tag and moving sales at which used goods can be had for deeply discounted prices. Shoppers can score everything from kitchen utensils to exercise equipment for a fraction of the cost. 

But that doesn’t mean everything you see at a yard sale is a steal. Some items are great deals and others not so much. Here’s a look at both. 

Yard sale items to avoid  

1. Electronics: Unless you’re able to test them, electronics land on the avoid list. “You don’t want to buy a toaster and it’s burnt-out, or a stereo that is broken or missing parts,” says Mona Scavo, owner of Tag Sales by Mona, which handles estate and tag sales for customers. These items are usually out of warranty and could be a fire hazard.

2. Stuffed animals: Dolls and stuffed animals that are upholstered may not be the best thing to purchase at a yard sale. Plush toys can harbor bugs and allergens that you don’t want in your home. “If you buy upholstered stuffed animals and dolls, you have to be aware,” Scavo says. “If you’re with your granddaughter at a yard sale, I would go with a game or puzzle instead.”  

3. Baby items: Car seats, cribs and even high chairs have an expiration date, which is why Heather Aiello, founder of the Organized You, a home organization company​ says you shouldn’t buy those products used. Stick to plastic toys, books and puzzles when shopping for your grandkids at yard sales.

4. Helmets: Safety helmets for biking or other sports may go for a song at a yard sale, but it’s not safe to buy them used. They could lose their effectiveness if a previous owner was in a collision. Plus it’s not as easy to wash the foam inside to remove potential allergens or bugs. “Bike helmets are only meant to last so long,” Aiello says.   

5. Cosmetics and perfume: These products aren’t a smart buy at a yard sale. You don’t know if bacteria and fungi may have been introduced if the seller dipped their fingers into the products. “Be wary of products offered for sale in flea markets or resold over the internet. Some may be past their shelf life, already used, diluted or tampered with in other ways,” the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns.

Yard Sale Items Worth Buying

1. Furniture: The fantastic thing about buying furniture is it can easily be given a new life. “There are products out there to refinish with paint or by changing out the knobs,” says Aiello. If you are looking for a bedroom nightstand, coffee table, bookshelf or other furnishings, hitting yard sales may yield the perfect find. “Furniture is very expensive. This is a good place to save money,” Aiello says. 

2. Books: If you’re an avid reader or like to collect books, yard sales often have a variety of books to choose from — and you won’t break the bank while you add to your library.

3. Sports equipment: Looking to take up pickleball or golf? Yard sales typically have sports gear at much lower prices than new merchandise costs. This excludes helmets which are on the avoid list. “Our kids grow out of things, go through different phases,” as do adults, Aiello says. “Sometimes you can find used golf clubs and other sporting equipment in good condition.”

Video: 3 Things to Buy Used

4. Kitchenware: Whether you need pots and pans, flatware or glasses, garage sales can be a treasure trove of cheaply priced kitchenware. The key, Aiello says, is to find what’s still in good shape. “With pots and pans you have to be careful. If it’s a good solid cast-iron pan, it will last forever. If it’s some less expensive cookware, I would stay away from those,” she says. When buying glassware, keep in mind how much you need. You don’t want to purchase extra just because it’s cheap.

5. Costume jewelry: If you see a necklace, bracelet or ring you like, purchasing it at a yard sale can save you a lot of money over picking it up new. Plus you won’t have to worry about it being fake or inauthentic. “I tell my clients to put everything out there for sale,” Aiello says. “You never know why people buy things.”

6. Anything vintage: If you’re in the market for a vintage vase, Waterford crystal or fine china, snap up what you come across at the next yard sale. “There is so much china out there people are trying to get rid of it,” Aiello says. “You might get Waterford crystal or a candlestick for a third of the price.”

Unlock Access to AARP Members Edition

Join AARP to Continue

Already a Member?