We all know how fast babies can grow out of things. We also know how expensive those things can be when you buy them new. This is why so many young families turn to hand-me-downs or gently used baby products for their babies. You can get a lot more for your money as well as possibly get free items from family or friends.

One very important task to do when you buy or receive used baby gear is to make sure it’s safe. Depending how many times the hand-me-down has actually been "handed down", the wear or use may have created risks for your child. Some of the main products that should be checked thoroughly are strollers, car seats, cribs, high chairs, and even clothes.

When you inherit a used stroller, the best thing to do is to Google the stroller’s name and see if there are any outstanding recalls or safety hazards.  The latest safety regulation update was in 2007, so it would also be beneficial to find a stroller made during or after that year.

You wouldn’t think that high chairs could be a big threat. If they are unstable or don’t have the proper harness though, it could be quite a fall for your baby. Be sure that any high chair you get won’t tip over and has a harness so your baby can’t climb out or slide out of the bottom. Also, make sure it’s comfortable. It will make feeding time much more pleasant.

Car seats are a tricky product to ensure they are safe to use. They are also the most important product to be thorough about. Make sure that the car seat in question has never been in a previous accident. The force of an accident can cause micro-fractures or damage that is hard to see with the naked eye. Also, make sure the car seat has recently been purchased new. If it’s more than 5 years old, it would probably be best to stay away.

Your baby will spend a good amount of time in their crib. It is very important that if you get a gently used crib, make sure that there are no recalls on it. Test that the bars are close enough together that your baby's head won’t get stuck. Also, make sure that any latches or drop down sides are properly secured. In 2000, crib safety standards were updated, so any cribs after that time must be compliant with the latest regualtions.

Clothes are often handed down or purchased gently-used because of the difference in price from retail stores. Be sure to wash any clothes you get and make sure that any snaps, buttons, or zippers won’t fall off to become a choking hazard.

You should always check any baby item you get if it is used. Even toys wear down and could create a potential threat or choking hazard. You can save plenty of money by buying or inheriting baby products, just make sure that they are safe to use!