When I started eyeing my savings goals, I looked around and realized I was sitting on a small goldmine in my own home. From a couple of tech gadgets to forgotten furniture, the stuff cluttering my closets could be turned into serious cash with a bit of effort. And thanks to online marketplaces and resale apps, selling these items has become quicker and easier than ever.
If you’re like me, you probably have a few things gathering dust that could find new life with someone else, and bring in some extra cash at the same time. It could be to help reach a savings goal, prepare an emergency fund, or just make some room in your space. Clearing out unused items can feel like a win-win and can give you a nice little cushion for the upcoming holidays (or any other big purchases in the future). Not only does it free up room, but watching your savings grow from the stuff you barely missed feels great, too.
So, here are 15 things you might have lying around, waiting to turn into extra income. It’s surprising what people are willing to pay for, especially if it’s unique or high quality—time to dig in and see what treasure awaits in those closets and drawers.
1. Old Smartphones
Image Credit: Depositphotos.com.
Most of us upgrade our phones regularly, leaving a few older models tucked away in drawers. Even if it’s a few years old, your old smartphone could bring in a decent amount of cash. From eBay to specialized trade-in sites, there’s always someone interested in used phones for parts or refurbishing.
Popular platforms like Gazelle and Swappa make selling old tech easy and often offer higher buybacks than general marketplaces. Just make sure to reset the phone to factory settings and remove any personal data before selling.
2. Vintage Clothing
Image Credit: Depositphotos.com.
Fashion trends are cyclical, and vintage clothing has a growing market. Items from well-known brands or unique pieces from past decades often fetch a pretty penny. That retro sweater or classic denim jacket? It could be someone’s new wardrobe staple.
Depop, eBay, and Poshmark are popular platforms for vintage clothing, and they’re full of buyers looking for one-of-a-kind finds. Vintage clothes tend to hold value well, especially if they’re in good condition.
3. Unused Gift Cards
Image Credit: Depositphotos.com.
It’s easy to accumulate gift cards for stores you don’t frequent. Rather than letting them gather dust, cash them in. You won’t get full value back, but plenty of sites allow you to sell gift cards, like CardCash or Raise, and get close to what they’re worth.
This quick flip is one of the easiest ways to add cash to your savings. Plus, it’s far better than holding onto cards for months or even years, hoping you’ll use them.
4. Kitchen Appliances
Image Credit: Depositphotos.com.
From air fryers to that barely-used bread maker, kitchen gadgets tend to pile up. If it’s in good working order and you don’t use it, let it go! Many people search for used small appliances to save money, and it’s a win-win to give someone else a deal.
Sites like Facebook Marketplace and OfferUp are ideal for selling small appliances locally. Larger items like stand mixers or espresso machines, especially from brands like KitchenAid or Breville, can bring in even more cash.
5. Furniture
Image Credit: Depositphotos.com.
Unused furniture like chairs, tables, or shelves can turn into quick cash, especially if they’re stylish or unique. Vintage and solid wood pieces are particularly popular and hold their value well. With home decor trends constantly evolving, there’s always a demand for pre-loved pieces.
Local buyers often prefer pre-owned furniture to avoid high delivery costs. Selling on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist can be a great option for furniture, as buyers can check it out in person and pick it up directly from you.
6. Collectible Toys
Image Credit: Indrepau from Depositphotos.com.
Old toys or action figures from franchises like Star Wars, Marvel, or Barbie can be worth a surprising amount. Collectors often pay high prices for rare items in good condition, especially if they’re still in original packaging.
Check eBay or toy-specific sites to gauge the value of your collectibles. Some collectors are willing to pay top dollar for items that hold sentimental value or complete their collections. (Just make sure they’re in mint condition, otherwise they’re probably not worth as much as you think!)
7. Power Tools
Image Credit: Depositphotos.com.
If you’ve got power tools collecting dust, it might be time to sell. Brands like DeWalt, Bosch, and Makita hold their value well, and there’s always a market for pre-owned, quality tools.
List locally to avoid shipping costs, and don’t forget to clean and check that everything works. DIY enthusiasts and contractors are often on the lookout for discounted tools they can count on.
8. Books and Textbooks
Image Credit: Depositphotos.com.
Books, especially old textbooks, are often worth more than we realize. While popular novels may not fetch much, academic books can still hold significant value if they’re relevant.
Sites like BookScouter, Amazon, and local used bookstores are perfect for turning textbooks into cash. Look for specific editions in demand to get the best return.
9. Jewelry and Watches
Image Credit: Depositphotos.com.
From costume jewelry to gold and silver pieces, jewelry and watches tend to retain value, especially if they’re from recognized brands. You might have unworn jewelry that could fetch a good price on resale platforms.
Consider getting pieces appraised if they’re particularly valuable. Sites like Poshmark or consignment stores can connect you with buyers looking for unique jewelry.
10. Sports Equipment
Image Credit: Depositphotos.com.
Unused sports equipment like bikes, treadmills, or weights can take up a lot of space. With more people seeking fitness equipment for home use, used items are highly sought after.
List your items on local platforms to save on shipping. Fitness equipment in good shape usually sells quickly, and afterward, you’ll have room for some new hobbies (or just extra cash).
11. Designer Bags
Image Credit: Depositphotos.com.
Designer bags from brands like Gucci, Chanel, or Louis Vuitton hold value well and, in some cases, appreciate over time. A classic handbag in good condition can attract serious buyers.
Use luxury-focused platforms like The RealReal or Fashionphile for authenticated sales. Providing original documentation and photos of any marks or wear helps ensure a smoother sale.
12. Gaming Consoles and Games
Image Credit: Depositphotos.com.
Classic consoles and games are often beloved by collectors and gamers alike. It could be an old PlayStation or a first-generation Nintendo console; these items can fetch good money.
Retro gaming forums or platforms like eBay are ideal for selling consoles. Make sure everything is in working order, as gamers often pay a premium for well-maintained gear.
13. Seasonal Decorations
Image Credit: Depositphotos.com.
Holiday decorations, especially those for Christmas and Halloween, sell well at the right time of year. Yard inflatables, string lights, or vintage ornaments can attract plenty of buyers during the season.
Try listing them in late fall or early winter when interest is at its peak. Local platforms are best for bulky items, allowing for a quick pickup.
14. Vinyl Records
Image Credit: Depositphotos.com.
Vinyl is back in style, and collectors are always searching for rare finds. Albums from legendary bands, particularly first pressings, can be worth more than you might expect.
Research the value of vinyl marketplaces or through a record store. Condition matters, so make sure to clean the records and sleeves before listing them.
15. Bicycles
Image Credit: Depositphotos.com.
Quality bicycles, especially those from reputable brands, are always in demand. As cycling grows in popularity, so does the market for pre-owned bikes.
List locally and be prepared for potential buyers to test ride. Clean it up, fix any minor issues, and your bike will likely find a new home quickly.
Now that you have a full list of ideas, it’s time to start posting them and clearing up some space while watching your bank account grow.