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Thursday Thoughts: Buying Children's Used Items

As you might remember, I enjoy shopping at thrift stores, and now that I'm a grandma, I enjoy shopping for my granddaughter. 


I've found high-quality clothing, toys, books, and equipment at bargain-basement prices, but my shopping experience isn't complete until I get home and turn on my computer.  I check the Consumer Product Safety Commission website to determine whether or not the item I purchased has had a recall issued.  

Recently, I found a cute activity center at a local thrift store.  Except for needing a good cleaning, it was in great condition. 

 
When I checked the CPSC website, though, I learned that my purchase had been recalled.  The soft blocks had been found to be a choking hazard, because they had plastic coverings.  I contacted the manufacturer online and requested a complimentary replacement part.  Within a week or so, I received a new set of soft blocks (without the plastic coating.)


While I don't recommend purchasing some used items--car seats, for example, because you can't guarantee that the seat hasn't been in an accident--the CPSC website takes some of the worry out of buying pre-owned. 

Have you ever visited the Consumer Product Safety Commission website? 



You might find my posts on these blog hops:
Sew Darn Crafty Party,  Find a Friend Friday, Farmgirl Friday Blog Hop, Show Your Stuff, The Wildly Original Link Party, Wow Us Wednesdays, Down Home Blog Hop, Tuesday Archive Link Up, Linky Tuesday at Freemotion by the River, Grandparents Say It Saturday
The Creative Home Acre Hop,  Best Blog Post Ever, Grand Social,
Crafty Garden Mama,
Let's Get Social Sundays



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Comments

  1. NancyApril 4, 2013 at 9:09 AM

    Yes, I've used the CPSC website before - very helpful.

    Glad that you received replacement parts so your lovely granddaughter can enjoy the activity center.

    Love the photo of you and your precious granddaughter. So sweet!

    ReplyDelete
  2. DebbieApril 4, 2013 at 6:07 PM

    That is great they sent replacement parts! I too have used the website...so handy. I think it is great to buy second-hand for kids as they outgrow clothes and toys so quickly. She is adorable!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Mom/NancyApril 4, 2013 at 9:37 PM

    I haven't used that before. I have purchased strollers and other toys and I have called the company for replacement parts and owners manuals, but that is good to know! Thanks! I should post all the wonderful things I have found at thrift stores!! :)

    ReplyDelete
  4. Vicki @ Grams Made ItApril 8, 2013 at 10:00 PM

    Yes! It's a great resource. I have had good experiences with them helping me get items replaced or repaired after recalls.

    ReplyDelete
  5. ~Kc WaddellApril 10, 2013 at 3:48 PM

    That was very wise of you! I wouldn't have thought to check! I wasn't even aware of that site so thank you for sharing!

    ReplyDelete

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