The Cash for Clunkers concept isn’t just for used cars anymore. Toys R Us is introducing their own version of Cash for Clunkers called the Great Trade-In. It’s no surprise that secondhand baby gear use is on the rise during the recession, but Toys R Us wants to call attention to the fact that many of the used items circulating could be damaged or not compliant with the newest safety standards. Or they could have been recalled long ago–less than 30% of recalled baby products actually get returned according to Kids in Danger, a consumer advocacy group.

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Ever wonder why the average new parent runs out to buy a huge SUV for the new family? It’s not to carry the baby, babies are pretty small. It’s for all the STUFF. An endless variety of unnecessary stuff that is marketed to you as a parent. I’ve survived the baby year.

Here’s a few tips on gear you (and the land fill) won’t miss later:

1. The Nursury Sanitizer. Because that binky isn’t going to hit the floor every five seconds, anyway. Go ahead, spend $59.95 and drive yourself crazy trying to keep everything “clean.” That sucker’s going in the closet after about a week of reality.

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