How to buy and sell second hand baby, kids and maternity items online
Babies grow with the speed of light, kids sometimes use a toy for a couple of weeks and then never again, and maternity, well - this one is actually set on a timer!
Buying pre-loved items is a great way of contributing to a world with less waste and leading a more sustainable life by giving products an extended life. Many products are built to last and can be used by many families before they are actually not usable anymore.
Selling items that have been used with love by your family can make you a bit of money, declutter your home and contribute to a circular economy. It can become addictive too.
It doesn’t have to be all or nothing and we are not into eco-guilt. You can mix used and new items, do what works for you!
Here are 5 tips on how to BUY secondhand items online:
1. Search for the items you need, but be open to slight differences
In short: if you are looking for a BabyBjorn bouncer in Grey model Bliss with toy bar, you might not find it. But if you search for a BabyBjorn bouncer you might find it and you can search for the toy bar separately.
2. Take your time in examining the photos at full size
Second hand is not new, so look at the images carefully to know what to expect. If there aren’t enough photos, ask the seller if they can upload more, and ask them if there are any signs of wear (in case they haven’t described or taken photos of any).
3. Curb your expectations a little
Don’t expect a new item, you are buying second hand.
A little wear is expected even if the items are in great condition.
4. You might not find it the first time round
You might not find what you need the first time you look for it. Don’t be put off - buying pre-loved items is a bit like going on a hunt. Give it a few days and you might be lucky. When you find it, it will feel great.
5. Be proud of yourself
You are contributing to a world with less waste! Little by little, a little becomes a lot and buying second hand is a fabulous way of leading a more sustainable life.
Here are 5 tips on how to SELL secondhand items online:
1. Use your time efficiently
Put aside all the items you’d like to sell. Take photos of all your items in one go, so they’re all saved and ready to be uploaded later when you have time.
2. Take good photos
Simple, clear and bright photos help items to sell well and fast. Prepare the space. Choose an area with natural daylight and without distractions. Choose a simple background, like wooden floors or a rug. Take photos of the whole item as well as details, and especially of any wear and tear.
3. Write an accurate description
Describe the condition, any wear, details, size, brand, etc. The more you can add, the easier it will be to sell it.
4. Price it well
Some items have a great re-selling price, others less so. Have a look around to see what a similar item to yours has sold for, and have a think how much you’d pay for it at its current condition.
5. Include a postage option
You will get more interest if your item can be posted. The Post Office can be used for items under 2kg (they can also collect from your doorstep for 72p). For larger items, courier collections are easy to sort out (avoid MyHermes, we’ve had bad experiences with them in the past).
We are on a mission to extend the life of products and produce less waste. Come join us!
Ana, mum to Max and Founder of The Octopus Club.