When you decide to purchase a tanning bed, you might not be ready for the cost of a new one. So, used tanning beds are always an option to those who just don’t want to shell out that kind of money for one just yet. But, there are many dangers to buying a used tanning bed that you need to watch for when you’re in the market for one. Don’t quite know what to look for? Well, have no fear, we have some tips and ideas to help you make the best decision when it comes to purchasing a used tanning bed.

1. Do a quick search online for any recalls on tanning beds. Sometimes there is a manufacturer’s recall and people will put the bed up for sale instead of taking advantage of the recall. If you purchase a faulty used tanning bed, you will not be able to return it and might have to take on the extra time and money of sending it to the manufacturer for the recall.

2. Call around to local stores who sell tanning beds and supplies. Usually these companies have a few used tanning beds for sale, or know the right place to send you to. This is the fastest way to find used tanning beds in your area that you can check out before you purchase.

3. When you are looking at used tanning beds, make sure that you are able to see the tanning bed work before you purchase it. You need to be sure that everything works, including the timer and fans if they are on the bed. If something doesn’t work, ask why. You should never purchase a used tanning bed that has equipment or options that do not work, as this can cause injury or burns.

4. Find out who owned the tanning bed or where it was used when you are considering purchasing a used one. Normally, a used tanning bed purchased from an individual will have a longer life than one purchased from a tanning salon. Remember that a tanning salon’s beds are used hundreds of times a week, and an individual’s beds are normally used 5 – 7 times a week. You will have a better chance of a great deal if you purchase an individually owned tanning bed.

5. Before you commit to purchasing a used tanning bed, make sure that you do your homework on that bed. Know what they sell for new, know any routine problems that they might have, and know what other used tanning beds just like it are going for. In essence, treat a used tanning bed as you would, say, a used auto.

6. Don’t purchase a used tanning bed that is older than 3 years. Most beds older than that can require bulbs that produce a very harmful type of radiation, UVA, and this type of radiation has been shown to produce very serious types of skin cancer.

7. Remember that a used tanning bed will have no warranty on it. So, if you purchase it and something breaks, you are out the money.

8. If you search around and cannot find a used tanning bed that you are comfortable with, search out some wholesalers and discount dealers. Usually, you can pick up one of these new beds for only a few dollars more than a used tanning bed.

Just use your common sense and do your homework before you put down your hard-earned money on a used tanning bed and you will find the right bed for you.