Never, ever, buy these things used

While not quite as gross as purchasing used intimates or used swimwear, the very notion of purchasing used shoes is pretty disgusting, says Kathy Ozzard Chism, author of Garage Sale Secrets:

The Definitive Step-by-Step Guide to Turn Your Trash Into Cash. Used shoes are likely filled with bacteria and possibly even fungus that could lead to athlete’s foot, she says. What’s more,

since the shoes have been worn by the previous owner, they have become fitted to that person’s wearing pattern — not yours. Should you insist on purchasing used shoes, make certain to

thoroughly clean them inside and out before you wear them, or consider taking them to a shoe repair store for a thorough cleaning, says Chagaris.  4. MEDICINE, VITAMINS AND PILLS This might

seem like a five-alarm no-brainer, but that doesn’t stop motivated sellers from trying to unload outdated and even used medications of all kinds at yard sales, warns Bruce Littlefield,

author of Garage Sale America. He remembers walking into a yard sale near Alexandria, Virginia, and seeing a used tube of Preparation H marked with a 25-cent price sticker on it. “The idea

sends shivers up my spine,” he says. “The fact that someone wouldn’t be embarrassed to sell that is shocking enough.","  Littlefield has also seen outdated prescription

medications sold at garage sales.  “That screams danger,” he says. Never purchase any kind of prescription or nonprescription drugs or medications used, he advises. “Just do the right thing

and get it at the pharmacy,” he says. 5. ANYTHING FOR A NEWBORN This includes baby clothes, bottles, bedding, cribs, strollers and car seats. The problem: the unknown. You don’t know who

used them last and how they were potentially misused. You don’t know if they were properly sterilized. You don’t know if they’ve been recalled or redesigned for safety reasons. And you don’t

necessarily know if they are damaged or broken. “When it comes to baby stuff, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and buy new,” says Chism. Getty Images 6. LARGE APPLIANCES,

ELECTRONICS AND LAMPS It can be tempting to pick up used large appliances like washers or dryers at a garage sale or thrift shop for alluringly-low prices. But it’s hardly a bargain if the

appliance doesn’t work — or if it breaks shortly after you purchase it. Unless you can repair electronics yourself, say no to anything that needs an outlet to operate unless you are able to

thoroughly test each of the items before buying, says Bodge. Some thrift stores do have outlets that they let customers use, she notes.  Also, she adds, make sure to check the cords and

plugs to all appliances for any damage. If the cord is frayed, that could be a fire hazard.