Bo Zhao gave birth to the first of her two daughters in December 2018, but recalls the effort to get baby gear being time consuming and stressful.
“Everything was expensive, and all the reviews conflicted,” she recalled.
Zhao believed second-hand items would save money and be environmentally sustainable.
Yet, she didn’t relish dealing with internet strangers or attending consignment sales and risk getting dirty or broken items.
Ultimately, Zhao came up with the idea for Baby Gear Group, a baby gear library for so-called “pre-loved” items.
“I could create what I wish existed for me,” she said.
The idea is to borrow baby gear from a trusted source to reduce stress and clutter and, at the same time, save money.
“Who doesn’t love to not waste money,” Zhao said.
In addition, Zhao said, Baby Gear Group prioritizes environmental sustainability by helping divert materials from landfills.
“We want the world to be better for our children,” she said.
Zhao, whose daughters are 6 and 3, started Baby Gear Group in 2020.
The business serves five areas: Philadelphia; Jenkintown (which includes a play space); Newtown; the Twin Cities of Minnesota; and Boulder, Colorado. There are opportunities to start a branch in other communities.
Gear includes bassinets, strollers, cribs, seats, swings, playmats, changing pads, high chairs, toys, playpens, bathtubs, sleepwear and a lot more.
“You can either buy a membership plan or rent a la carte,” Zhao said.
There are three monthly membership options: Mini for $49, Basic for $99 and More for $149.
“The plans all include delivery,” Zhao said.
A la carte rentals can be delivered for an additional fee.
For more information, visit babygeargroup.com, call 248-660-0818 or email [email protected].
Zhao said she is available to communicate with customers.
“I enjoy doing that as part of the service we offer,” she said. ••
