Giving away baby and kids’ items safely: what to pass on and what to skip

Easy to pass on: clothes, books and soft toys

Clean, wearable clothes, board books, picture books and washable soft toys are the easiest things to give. Wash everything first, bundle clothes by age and type ("girls 2–3 years, 10 pieces"), and be clear about wear. Families like bundles because one pickup covers a whole size.

Check before you give: toys and small equipment

For toys, check for loose or broken parts, sharp edges, exposed batteries and anything small enough to be a choking risk for a younger child. Wipe or wash them. For strollers, high chairs and walkers, make sure the brakes, straps, locks and folding parts all work, and mention any wear in the listing.

Think twice: items where safety matters most

Some items are better not passed on, or only with clear information. Car seats and helmets can lose their protection after an accident, and some car seats have an expiry date, so only give one if you know its full history and it is still in date. Cots and cribs should have no damaged or missing parts and a firm, clean mattress. If you are unsure that something is safe, it is kinder to recycle it than to give it away.

Be honest and keep it simple

A clear photo, the child’s age range, and an honest note about condition (including stains or scratches) is all a good listing needs. Since everything on Trezow is free, there is nothing to negotiate: someone who needs it requests it and collects it.

Frequently asked questions