Got a pile of clothes you haven’t worn in years? Maybe a drawer full of old gadgets or furniture collecting dust in the garage? If you’re nodding along, it might be time for a decluttering session and a money making one at that.

Clearing out your closet (and your home) doesn’t just free up space it can actually put cash in your pocket. With the rise of resale apps, local selling groups, and creative reuse ideas, turning your unused items into extra income is easier than ever.

1. Sort First, Sell Later

Before jumping into selling, take time to sort through your stuff. Create three piles: Keep, Sell, and Donate.

Ask yourself:

• Have I used or worn this in the last year?
• Is this still in good condition?
• Would someone else find value in this?

Be honest. The less emotional attachment, the faster you’ll declutter.

2. Clothes: From Closet to Cash

We all have those clothes we swear we’ll wear someday. If that day hasn’t come in a year or two, it might be time to part ways.

Where to Sell:

• Poshmark: Great for trendy or brand name pieces.
• Depop: Ideal for Gen Z, vintage, or streetwear styles.
• ThredUp: Perfect if you want someone else to handle the selling. Just send in a bag of clothes, and they take care of the rest.
• Facebook Marketplace or Buy/Sell Groups: Fast, local, and no shipping hassles.
• Plato’s Closet or local consignment shops: Quick cash if they accept your items.

Pro Tip:

Take clear photos with good lighting and write honest, detailed descriptions. Mention brands, sizes, and any flaws.

3. Electronics: Don’t Let Old Gadgets Die in a Drawer

Old phones, tablets, cameras, and even chargers can bring in decent money especially if they still work.

Where to Sell:

• Decluttr: Easy to use site that buys tech (phones, tablets, games, etc.).
• Swappa: Focused on selling used tech directly to buyers.
• EcoATM: Kiosks at malls or stores where you can trade in old phones for instant cash.
• Facebook Marketplace / OfferUp: Great for fast, local sales.

Bonus:

Even broken electronics can be sold for parts on eBay. Just label them as “for parts or not working.”

4. Furniture: Turn Big Pieces Into Big Bucks

That old bookshelf or coffee table could be someone else’s perfect find especially with the current love for secondhand and vintage décor.

Where to Sell:

• Facebook Marketplace: Arguably the fastest and easiest way to sell furniture locally.
• Nextdoor: A neighborhood based app where locals look for everything from couches to kids’ beds.
• Chairish: High end furniture and home décor. Ideal for vintage or designer items.
• OfferUp: Simple app for local selling with built in messaging and safety features.

Selling Tips:

• Clean furniture before photographing.
• Take photos from different angles, including close ups of any damage.
• Mention dimensions; buyers want to know if it’ll fit in their space.

5. Other Items You Can Easily Sell

Don’t stop at clothes and furniture; there’s money to be made in all kinds of unexpected places:

• Books: Sell to used bookstores, on Amazon, or with apps like BookScouter.
• Toys & Games: Vintage toys, LEGO sets, or even used board games do well on eBay or Facebook.
• Baby Gear: Strollers, carriers, cribs; parents are always hunting for deals.
• Home Decor: Mirrors, lamps, frames, and wall art can sell quickly, especially locally.
• Craft Supplies: Leftover yarn, fabric, or art supplies can be sold on Etsy or in niche Facebook groups.

6. Bundle For Better Sales

Sometimes, single items aren’t worth listing on their own. Instead, create bundles.

Examples:

• A “summer style bundle” of clothes
• A box of toddler toys
• A set of books by the same author

Bundling helps move inventory faster especially for lower value items.

7. Set Smart Prices

Price too high, and your item will sit there. Too low, and you miss out on profit.

Here’s how to find the sweet spot:

• Search for similar items and see what they’re selling for.
• Consider condition, brand, and demand.
• Be open to negotiation but set a bottom line price for yourself.

Tip:

Use phrases like “OBO” (or best offer) or “firm price” to signal flexibility (or lack of it).

8. Safety First When Selling Locally

If you’re meeting a buyer in person:

• Choose a public location; many police stations have “safe exchange” areas.
• Bring a friend, especially for big ticket items.
• Only accept cash or secure payment methods like PayPal or Venmo be wary of checks or fake payment screenshots.

9. Donate What Doesn’t Sell

If something doesn’t sell after a few weeks, consider donating it. Local charities, shelters, schools, or thrift stores may accept everything from clothes and books to small furniture and electronics.

And remember; donations = potential tax deductions. Keep your receipts!

Final Thoughts

Decluttering doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Think of it as a chance to refresh your space and boost your bank account. Whether it’s an unused coat, a forgotten phone, or a chair that no longer fits your style, there’s likely someone out there who wants it.

So, grab some boxes, snap some pics, and start listing. Your next payday might be hiding right inside your closet.