Where can I find great used gear for my new baby?

Dear Cash Queens

I’M HAVING a baby and finding it really expensive to buy all the essentials I need.

I was wondering if there is anywhere I can go to get quality second-hand bits?

I’m thinking a lot of the items I need for the early days will hardly be used and I may be able to find some in almost new condition.

I’ve looked online but most of the pictures are terrible quality and you can’t see the condition. I don’t want to end up with grotty looking items for my new baby.

Mary Smithfield

Cash Queens say

THERE is a great place you can head to for all the items you need.

Local branches of the National Childbirth Trust run nearly new sales with pregnancy and baby clothes, toys and equipment at very affordable prices. You can see items before you buy, so you know the condition and can pick up bargains.

For example children’s clothes such as baby grows, sleep suits and body suits are sold in bundles for between 50p to £2, while dresses and dungarees cost £1 to £5.

Or you can pick up maternity clothes from between £2 and £10.

Equipment such as playpens, buggies, travel cots and larger toys cost around £20 to £50.

As well as bargain buys, the sales give parents (selling and buying) the chance to socialise and meet others in their local area.

Parents who sell get to keep 70 per cent to 100 per cent of what they make, depending on the sale.

You can search for sales in your area via www.nct.org.uk/nns.

Barnardo’s have charity shops which specialise in selling qualty second-hard babywear, nursery furniture, prams and buggies as well as toys and games.

Find your nearest branch at www. barnardos.org.uk/shop.