When I saw a listing for a Pendleton Yakima Camp Blanket on Craigslist for $35.00, I was ecstatic. I've been coveting Pendleton blankets, and dream of having a few around the cabin for super-cold winter nights, pops of color, and picnics - but brand new they're a bit out of my price range. Even on ebay Pendleton blankets generally go for around $100.00 +, depending on the design.
When I told my friend Leigh I was buying a blanket from Craigslist, her immediate response was "Ewwww...someone could have died on it." Hmmm...good point - but I still bought it. I'm happy to report that it's unstained, smells fresh, and looks great draped on the end of a bed in our cabin (pictured above - the chain is for a light fixture that is yet to be hung).
Now the question is, would you buy a "vintage" (code word for: used) blanket? If not, would you buy any used house-ware item (i.e. dinnerware, rugs, furniture). Clothing? Where would you draw the line?
Pee, vomit, semen. Those are all things that could be on used blankets.
ReplyDeleteVery true. But what if its sanitized? Would that sway you? (I have a "sanitize" function on our washer).
ReplyDeleteBTW - I'll make sure you have a brand new blanket when you come and visit :)
ReplyDeleteOk so I also have a little problem with it but this is why- bedbugs and or lice...ewww. So can you get the blanket dry cleaned? I know I would not buy any couch or fabric chair from anyone other than a furniture store. I am not a snob but bed bugs live forever and I just wouldn't want to bring that home. :) I am sure your blankie is just fine but next time you are thinking of buying anything fabric based from someone you don't know, keep that in mind. Oh and that you can put anything in the dryer for 20 minutes to kill bedbugs....wow, I sound paranoid, don't I?? :)
ReplyDeleteEek! I didn't even think of bed bugs!
ReplyDeleteI purchase items at estate/yard/garage sales and flea markets all the time for my home. I just purchased an antique quilt from a booth on Bonanza.com and can't wait for it to arrive...for my dining room table. I will probably hand launder it and hang it out on the line in the sunshine then spray it with lavender spray but I, like you, wanted the color, the ambiance, the usefulness. I don't mind if it is previously used...as a matter of fact, sometimes it gives even more of a "homey yet loved" feeling to the area to which it is part. Thank you for sharing and congrats on your purchase!
ReplyDeleteElizabeth
Bed bugs is the winner. I'd never buy used linens. You'd better burn that blanket just to be safe.
ReplyDelete