I have a 10 month old baby and I've started shopping pop-up consignment sales to get things. I honestly wish I'd done this when I was pregnant and when he was a newborn because I would have saved a lot - especially on toys. For about $150 I've gotten dozens of great toys, dozens of books, piles of clothes, a halloween costume, and more. Plus the toys are already assembled!
I'm lucky to be in a pretty big metropolitan area (DC area) so there are a LOT of sales to choose from. But here are a few takeaways that might help other people:
- The bigger sales (they'll be in huge/multiple auditoriums and brag that they have 20k+ items) are a bit crazy. I've had better luck for baby clothes at these though because they have a huge selectoin- snagged a halloween costume (probably worn once) for $6, lots of jeans for a few bucks, and a great winter coat and snow pants set for $10. There's a good selection of toys at these sales, but the quality wasn't as good and prices were much higher than smaller sales. Bottom line (for me) - big sales are better for clothes. Also at these sales the lines can be INSANE. Make sure you're going to one that has an efficient check-out process.
- Smaller sales (think church or pre-school hosted ones, usually in one conference room) are great for toys/big ticket items - especially if you're not as picky about what you want (my guy is a baby - he gets what he gets and finds it all wonderful). Parking is usually better, lines are shorter, and they're just more pleasant experiences. The prices are MUCH lower at these - I got a stand-up play table for my son at the big sale for $15, same one was $3 at the smaller sale. Ouch. This is because smaller sales usually let the consigners keep a higher portion of the sales.
- It's worth it to get there when they open, especially if you have in mind some big ticket thing like a stroller or big toys. Get them, take them to the set-aside area for big items (most sales have these) and move on to clothes. Getting there early means shorter lines and better selection. Worth volunteering or paying extra if it means getting earlier access to the sale.
- Know the rules - bring a big bag or duffel if they don't provide them, and bring enough cash if it's required. And for the love of pete do not bring your small child with you - it's crowded and crazy in some of these.
- look for accessories like crib sheets, feeding supplies, maternity clothes, etc - most of these have everything
All in all - I can't think of a better way to get gear for babies and small kids.
November 02, 2018 at 09:34PM
