With Americans spending $158 billion on their pets in 2025 and more looking to save money, secondhand pet supplies offer both cost savings and environmental benefits. Yet, safety and cleanliness concerns mean buyers need to choose wisely.
- Hard, nonporous items like stainless steel bowls clean safest
- Avoid used plastic bowls — scratches trap bacteria
- Check crates thoroughly, never buy used airline travel carriers
What happened
Pet owners spent a record $158 billion on their pets in 2025, yet about 22% have scaled back expenses. This financial pressure, combined with environmental concerns, has sparked growing interest in buying used pet supplies. Items like dog crates and hard toys are made to last long and can be reused safely when properly cleaned, making them popular secondhand purchases.
However, some pet products, especially soft or porous ones such as fabric beds or plastic bowls, pose hygiene risks. Harmful bacteria can linger in scratches and porous materials, surviving normal cleaning routines. These germ challenges underscore the need for clear advice to help shoppers choose secondhand pet items that are both economical and safe.
Why it feels good
Purchasing secondhand pet gear helps pet owners save money—often hundreds of dollars on items like crates—while also reducing plastic waste, estimated at 300 million pounds annually from pet products in North America alone. Keeping durable items in circulation means fewer resources are used for manufacturing and less gear ends up in landfills, benefiting the environment.
Additionally, a few manufacturers are responding to sustainability challenges by designing products made from recycled materials or creating take-back programs to remake worn gear. These circular approaches align with growing consumer values around eco-consciousness and responsible pet ownership, giving shoppers a sense of contributing positively with each purchase.
What to enjoy or watch next
When considering used pet supplies, focus on hard, nonporous materials that you can disinfect completely, like stainless steel, glass, or glazed ceramic bowls. These can be sanitized with boiling water or dishwasher cycles without health risks. Avoid plastic bowls, as scratches harbor bacteria that are extremely difficult to remove and can pose health hazards.
For crates and carriers, inspect for damage such as cracks, weak joints, and ensure secure latches, but avoid used airline travel crates because they must meet current strict safety standards. Fabric beds and accessories are only advisable if you can wash them on high heat cycles to eliminate fleas and pathogens. Prioritize quality and safety to maintain your pet’s health while enjoying the economic and environmental perks of secondhand shopping.