Second-hand baby registry: a more eco-friendly arrival

What's great to buy second-hand

Many items stand the test of time beautifully. You'll find them easily on second-hand websites, in consignment shops or at clothing swaps.

• Clothes from 0 to 12 months, often barely worn.
• The wooden cot, the chest of drawers, the changing table, the playpen.
• Developmental toys, books, the play mat.
• The baby bath, the bouncer, the high chair, the baby carrier (check the stitching and buckles).

What's best bought new

For a few items, safety comes first. The car seat should be new or of known origin: a seat that has been in an impact may be weakened without any visible sign. The cot mattress should also be bought new, for hygiene and firmness. The same goes for dummies and bottle teats.

Say it simply to your loved ones

Some loved ones hesitate to give second-hand items for fear of getting it wrong. Say it clearly in your registry's message: “Second-hand items in good condition are welcome.” On each item, the note “second-hand welcome” removes any doubt.

You can also add a link to a specific listing, or an item without a link that your loved ones can track down themselves.

Renting instead of buying

A breast pump, an infant car seat or a pram carrycot are only used for a few months. Renting is a good alternative: you can add a contribution towards a rental to your registry, to be given as a group gift. The same goes for reusable nappies, which can be rented as a trial kit.

Gifts that aren't objects

An eco-friendly registry can also include intangible gifts: a babywearing workshop, a baby massage class, a photo session, meals prepared for the first weeks. These gifts leave lovely memories, without cluttering up the nursery.