Never Borrow: 10 Things Never to Borrow for Your Child
Parenting can be expensive, and it’s only natural to look for ways to cut costs—especially when kids outgrow items faster than you can blink. While borrowing from friends and family can be a great way to save money, there are certain things you should never borrow for your child. Some items pose safety risks, hygiene concerns, or might just end up costing you more in the long run. Knowing what’s okay to share and what’s better to buy new is key to keeping your child safe and healthy. Here are 10 things never to borrow for your child, even if they seem like a harmless hand-me-down.
1. Car Seats
A car seat may look perfectly fine on the outside, but if it’s been in an accident or is past outside its approved lifespan, it could be dangerous. Safety technology improves over time, and materials can break down, even if the seat appears unused. Unless you personally know the history of the seat and can verify it’s not expired, it’s one of the top things never to borrow for your child. New car seats come with updated safety features and manuals. It’s worth the peace of mind to invest in one yourself.
2. Cribs and Bassinets
Old cribs might look charming, but safety standards have changed dramatically over the years. Drop-side cribs, for example, are now banned in the U.S. due to serious injury risks. Screws can loosen over time, and used mattresses may pose suffocation hazards if they don’t fit snugly. Bassinets passed from friend to friend may no longer meet current guidelines. When it comes to safe sleep, always choose gear that complies with the latest regulations.
3. Breast Pumps
It may be tempting to borrow a breast pump to save money, but most pumps labeled for personal use should never be shared. Internal parts can harbor bacteria, mold, and viruses—even if the exterior looks clean. Hospital-grade pumps designed for multiple users are the only exception, and even those should come with new tubing and accessories. Breastfeeding is hard enough without risking contamination. Check your insurance plan first—many cover the cost of a new pump.
4. Helmets
Whether it’s for biking, skateboarding, or riding a scooter, helmets are one of the most important things never to borrow for your child. Like car seats, helmets are designed to absorb impact once. Even a minor crash can compromise their protective foam, making them unsafe for future use. You also can’t always see internal damage just by looking. For safety gear, new is non-negotiable.
5. Pacifiers and Teething Toys
Anything that spends time in your child’s mouth should never come secondhand. Pacifiers, teething rings, and other chewable toys can retain germs in tiny cracks or worn materials. These items are inexpensive to replace and should always be brand-new for hygiene and safety. Even thorough cleaning can’t always eliminate bacteria or saliva buildup. With something that directly affects oral health, it’s just not worth the risk.
6. Bottles and Nipples
While borrowing a bottle may sound harmless, the nipple materials wear down with use and can harbor bacteria if not cleaned properly. Silicone and rubber degrade over time, increasing the risk of small tears or leaks. Plus, the flow rate of nipples varies, and one that works for another baby might not suit yours. Like pacifiers, bottles and nipples fall under the category of things never to borrow for your child due to sanitation and safety concerns. Invest in a set that fits your baby’s needs.
7. Shoes
Kids’ feet grow fast, but that doesn’t mean borrowing shoes is a great idea. Footwear molds to the original wearer’s feet and gait, which can cause discomfort or even developmental issues when reused. Borrowed shoes may also carry hidden fungus or foot bacteria, especially if they’ve been worn without socks. It’s fine to accept barely-worn hand-me-downs for dressy occasions, but for daily wear, choose fresh kicks. Your child’s developing feet will thank you.
8. Thermometers
Thermometers may seem like a harmless share, but they’re personal-use medical tools that can spread germs if not properly sanitized. This is especially important for rectal thermometers, which should always be single-user. Ear and forehead thermometers can also harbor bacteria in sensors and covers. When it comes to monitoring your child’s health, accurate readings and hygiene are essential. It’s best to keep one thermometer per family.
9. Swimsuits and Underwear
Hand-me-down clothes are great, but anything that fits close to the skin—especially in sensitive areas—should be purchased new. Swimsuits and underwear can carry bacteria, even after washing, and elasticity degrades quickly. These garments also wear out faster and may not provide the support or coverage needed. As tempting as it may be to reuse, this is one of those things never to borrow for your child. New, clean, and properly fitted options are always the better route.
10. Personalized Medical Devices
Items like EpiPens, inhalers, or prescription orthotics are specifically tailored to another child’s needs and shouldn’t be reused under any circumstance. Medications degrade over time, and incorrect dosing or sizing can be dangerous. Even if you’re in a pinch, borrowing these items can delay proper medical attention. Always talk to your child’s doctor for an appropriate replacement. Medical care is one area where short-term fixes can cause long-term problems.
Invest Where It Matters Most
Some hand-me-downs are wonderful—think books, jackets, or toys—but there are a few key areas where borrowing simply isn’t safe. Items that touch your child’s body, protect them from injury, or affect their health should always be chosen carefully. Knowing what never to borrow for your child helps you set smart boundaries, save safely, and protect your child’s well-being. A little caution now can prevent big headaches later.
Have you ever regretted borrowing something for your child? Or discovered something you shouldn’t have borrowed? Share your experiences in the comments!
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