Why are breast pumps not allowed on Facebook marketplace?

The Ban on Breast Pumps in Facebook Marketplace: A Closer Look
In recent years, the sale of breast pumps on Facebook Marketplace has become a contentious issue, sparking frustration among parents and caregivers eager to sell or give away these essential items. The primary reason for this ban lies in Facebook’s classification of breast pumps as medical devices, which falls under their stringent health care policies.
Understanding Facebook’s Health Care Policy
A spokesperson for Facebook clarified that breast pumps are categorized as medical devices, which means they are subject to specific regulations that prohibit their sale on the platform. This policy extends not only to Marketplace listings but also to Buy and Sell Groups and Instagram Shopping posts. The rationale behind this decision is rooted in concerns over safety and the potential for scams, as the sale of medical devices can pose risks if not handled properly.
The Impact on Parents and Caregivers
For many parents, breast pumps represent a significant financial investment, often costing hundreds of dollars. Given that these devices are typically used for a limited time, many seek to recoup some of their costs by selling them once they are no longer needed. However, the ban has left many feeling frustrated and confused, especially when they see others successfully listing similar items or when they attempt to navigate the platform’s policies.
In private forums and groups, parents have expressed their discontent, sharing stories of their attempts to list breast pumps only to have their posts removed. Some have even resorted to using euphemisms or brand names to circumvent the restrictions, highlighting the lengths to which they will go to connect with potential buyers.
Alternatives and Workarounds
Despite the ban, many parents are still looking for ways to sell or give away their breast pumps. Some have turned to local buy-sell-trade groups outside of Facebook, while others are exploring specialized platforms that cater to parenting and baby gear. These alternatives often provide a more suitable environment for the exchange of such items, allowing parents to connect without the constraints imposed by Facebook’s policies.
Conclusion
The prohibition of breast pumps on Facebook Marketplace underscores the complexities of regulating the sale of medical devices in online marketplaces. While the intent behind the policy is to ensure safety and compliance, it inadvertently complicates the lives of parents who wish to share resources and support one another in their parenting journeys. As the conversation continues, it remains to be seen whether Facebook will reconsider its stance or if alternative platforms will rise to meet the needs of these families.

Can you sell breast pumps on Poshmark?

We do not allow the buying or selling of furniture, appliances, used makeup/personal care products, used underwear, any health and wellness products (examples include diet supplements, protein powder, body wraps and breast pumps), and current airline and airport uniforms and related items (which include pilot, flight …

Why can’t you sell used breast pumps?

Unless its a hospital grade pump, which at that price it isn’t, breast pumps are intended for a single user and are never intended to be used by another person whether it’s sold or donated. Even with new tubes and other accessories it is a contamination risk because breast milk can get backed up into the unit.

What is not allowed on Facebook marketplace?

Digital products or subscriptions. Weapons, ammunition or explosives. Animals. Illegal, prescription or recreational drugs.

Why won t marketplace let me list an item?

Many marketplaces do this to prevent bots and fraudulent or suspicious activity. Sometimes, this occurs when a user has listed too many items within a time period, or listed too quickly. Unfortunately, we do not have a magic number or formula to determine why and when this happens.

How to sell medical equipment on Facebook marketplace?

It’s not allowed to list medical devices or aids so your best bet is to make the wheelchair miscellaneous or chair and say bed instead of hospital bed. I’ve done this with walkers and wheelchairs. People will come across it and respond don’t worry.

Why can’t I list a breast pump on marketplace?

Facebook considers a breast pump a medical aid. And you can’t sale them on the market place you could your local buy swap and sell page without posting to the market place. But you can’t list as a breast pump as Facebook doesn’t like the word breast either try using the brand name instead.

What can I do with a used breast pump?

You can donate your used pump directly to another family, or seek out an organization that will give it to a mom in need. Be forewarned, however, that many non-profit organizations will not be able to accept a used pump due to liability and health concerns, even if it is a closed system pump.

Can you sell medical supplies on Marketplace?

It’s not allowed to list medical devices or aids so your best bet is to make the wheelchair miscellaneous or chair and say bed instead of hospital bed. I’ve done this with walkers and wheelchairs. People will come across it and respond don’t worry.

Why can’t you post breast pumps on Facebook Marketplace?

You can get around it and breast pumps have plenty of resale value. Facebook decided that pumps are considered a medical device and you’re not allowed to sell it.

How to list breast pump on FB?

A Facebook spokesperson told HuffPost Canada that breast pumps are considered a medical device and therefore go against their health care policy. Those policies apply to all posts on Marketplace, Buy and Sell Groups, Shop Sections on Pages, and Instagram Shopping product posts, the spokesperson added.