A Few Words About Buying/Selling/Trading

So I've had a rather eventful few weeks. Dad broke his ankle, and is unable to get around without serious assistance. The boys and I have been busy helping him and haven't had time to do any tutorial videos. We did, however, learn that a size 6 woven wrap can be used to help get your 270 lb father "unstucked" when trying to go from wheelchair to bed. :-)

Anyway. Let's chat about buying, selling, and trading for a minute. You can buy your carriers new or you can buy them used. There are advantages to both, in my opinion.

Buying New:
You can purchase wraps and carriers straight from the manufacturer or a major retailer such as Buy Buy Baby or The Baby Grocery Store. In the case of woven wraps, you may have to order from overseas as most wraps are made in Europe or South America. So be prepared for a longer wait due to increased shipping time, and also the possibility of customs fees (never happened to me personally, but I know people that have been hit.) There are also some fantastic online retailers that are here in the States, such as www.marsupial-mamas.com or www.paxbaby.com. Why buy new? Well, you are the only person who has ever used the wrap. You typically don't have a lot of flaws, holes, or issues, and most retailers are willing to work with you if you do have an issue.

The downside to buying new? Some carriers, woven wraps in particular, are just a beast straight out of the box. I've received wraps that feel almost like cardboard, and take weeks to "break in." I've also received some that were so soft and cuddly that I wanted to use them as blankets. So what do you do if you haven't the time or energy (or a helpful toddler eager for a hammock) to break in a wrap? Buy used!

Buying/Trading Used:
Enter the world of "The Swap." There are multiple venues to buy or trade used baby carriers. Thebabywearer.com is popular, as are multiple groups on Facebook. My personal favorite is Facebook, because I find it easier to navigate. Mamas post pictures of their wrap or carrier along with details such as manufacturer, design, price, condition, and trades they are looking for. Best to just jump right in, and start looking. :)

Advantages to buying used are easy. You can get a beastly wrap that you love but don't want to break in yourself. Used wraps are typically soft, moldable, and easier to use than brand new. You can also score some great carriers for awesome deals, sometimes on a payment plan if a mama is willing to work with you.

The downside? It is a used carrier. Remember, these things are made to be used with a BABY! And babies...well, they're babies! They poop, they drool, they spit up. It happens. If you buy used, remember this. You may find that a used carrier has a few more flaws than brand new.

A few words of caution when b/s/t:
1. Always pay with PayPal, and do not send that payment as "gifted" funds. If you don't, you lose your protection as a buyer should something happen to go wrong.
2. If you're selling, hang on to that tracking number and receipt and BUY THE INSURANCE! Spend the $3 to insure the wraps, because you don't want to have to replace it if the package gets lost or damaged.
3. Buyers: ask questions up front! Ask to see pictures of any flaws or defects. Remember that a seller may sell to whomever she wishes, so don't assume the wrap is yours if you ask questions, but haven't made payment arrangements. Ask to have measurements if you are unsure (you want soft tape in hand-STIH-if measuring a woven wrap or ring sling. Be polite!
4. Sellers: Be honest! Try to disclose any flaws in the carrier. Be upfront on whether your list price includes shipping, where you are willing to ship to, and how quickly you can ship. Try to take good pictures for your listing that shows off your wrap or carrier to its best advantage (can you say "action shots"?). Be fair. Oh, and please disclose if you have pets! Some people have major issues with animal dander.
5. Remember that we are all moms. This means we have children and other responsibilities and may not respond two minutes after a question is posted. Allow 24 hours as a general rule for a response.
6. Never wash a wrap until you have looked it over for flaws. Once you wash it, its yours.
7. Wash your wrap, then measure before listing. Don't send a mama a dirty wrap unless she specifically asks you not to.
8. Remember to leave feedback if you buy used. Be honest and fair.
9. Refrain from commenting on a mama's price. If she paid $200 for a wrap and needs to recoup funds, that's what she paid. If you're not willing to pay what  mama is asking, move on. Also, keep all negotiations in PMs.
10. Finally, remember the Golden Rule! And most of all, have fun wearing your baby!

Keep Calm and Carry On!
Cheers!