Four items you should NEVER buy on Facebook Marketplace and the surprising one that could save you money

The Sun

24-07-2025

FROM second-hand clothing to antique furniture and even cars, you can find almost anything nowadays on Facebook Marketplace.
Millions of people in the UK use the platform to snap up some great bargains or sell their unwanted goods, but it's important to stay savvy when buying or selling to avoid fraudsters.
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A shopping expert has revealed the things you should never buy from Facebook Marketplace, as well as the top items that could end up saving you cash.
Consumer expert at NetVoucherCodes.co.uk Rebecca Bebbington says: ' Buying and selling on Facebook Marketplace is a great way to shift some unwanted items, make a quick buck or uncover a gem you've been looking for, but there's still some things people should be aware of.
'When you buy on Facebook Marketplace there's no buyer protection.
"Unlike platforms like eBay or Depop, Facebook doesn't offer buyer protection for Marketplace transactions, so purchases are entirely at your own risk."
Rebecca has shared her tips for the best things to buy on Facebook Marketplace, and the four you should stay away from to make sure you always get the best bargains.
Top Facebook Marketplace buys
Pet supplies
Pet accessories are one of the best things you can buy on Facebook Marketplace, according to Rebecca, and you could save loads of cash compared to buying them new.
"Dog crates, cat towers, pet carriers, and even unopened food or litter often come up when people no longer need them," she says.
"These essentials can be surprisingly pricey new, so it's worth checking Marketplace before heading to a pet store."
Home gym equipment
Fitness gear like dumbbells, kettlebells, rowing machines, and even Pelotons pop up regularly on Facebook Marketplace.
"Many sellers list them after losing motivation," Rebecca says, "which means you can grab barely-used kit for a steep discount."
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If you want to workout at home, you can save hundreds on home gym equipment buying from Marketplace instead of high street stores.
"Just be quick, as these are in demand," she adds.
Garden furniture and tools
Now is a good time to snap up things like deck chairs, lawnmowers, planters, and patio sets, as many will be getting rid of them after their spring or summer clear-outs.
" Buying second-hand can save you hundreds compared to new garden centre prices," Rebecca says.
"Just make sure that any electronic or gas-powered tools that you buy are in full working condition before handing over any money."
Kitchen gadgets
Facebook Marketplace can be a brilliant way to update your kitchen on the cheap.
" Air fryers, mixers, slow cookers and even fridges often appear in listings when people are upgrading or moving."
However, if you are buying anything electric, be sure to test it out before you buy it.
You'll be able to do this if you meet the seller in person to buy the item - something a lot of Facebook Marketplace users do.
Other top buys Rebecca suggests are items like dining tables, dressers, and bookshelves, as these "are often high-quality, pre-loved pieces that would cost a fortune new".
"People clearing out quickly or downsizing will sell them for far less than their true value, sometimes even for free if you can collect."
Things you should never buy on Facebook Marketplace
Makeup or skincare
Makeup is "by far one of the worst things you can buy" on a platform like Facebook Marketplace, Rebecca warns.
It poses serious safety and hygiene risks, as it's hard to know if they're genuine, expired, or have been previously used.
She says that for the sake of a couple of quid, "you're best buying new from the store".
Child car seats
Child car seats can set you back hundreds of pounds nowadays, so it might be tempting to try and find one second-hand.
"While it might seem like a good way to save a couple of pounds, you should never skip on safety," Rebecca adds.
"With these items, you can't verify their safety history. If they've been in an accident, they may be compromised."
Electronics with missing chargers or packaging
Electronics are one of the most popular things to buy on Facebook Marketplace, but if they have missing chargers or packaging it might not be the best buy.
"These could be stolen or faulty, and there's often no comeback if they stop working," Rebecca warns.
Be sure to check with the seller that the equipment comes with chargers and original packaging before buying.
Event tickets
recent rise in ticket scams.
"We've all learnt from Taylor Swift's Eras Tour and now Oasis' ongoing tour.
"Concert tickets, or any event ticket for that matter, are commonly faked or sold multiple times.
"You're better off using official resale platforms," she says.
What are my rights on Facebook Marketplace?
WHILE it can be a great place to bag a bargain, buying on Facebook Marketplace does come with risks.
According to Which?, if you buy from a private seller on Facebook marketplace, you have fewer consumer rights than if you were to buy from an online store.
The principal of "buyer beware" applies, whereby the goods must be as described but the seller does not have to disclose any faults.
But the seller would be in breach of contract if they didn't send you anything after taking your money, or if the goods were misrepresented.
Unlike sites like eBay, Amazon or Depop, Facebook Marketplace doesn't offer extra buyer protection, so you're not guaranteed a refund for damaged or faulty items, or if the item doesn't turn up.
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