Turn Old Wardrobe into Cash: How to Sell Your Old Clothes

Brett Walker
11 min readMar 9, 2024

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Looking to make some extra money? Selling your old clothes is a great way to declutter your wardrobe and earn some cash. While the resale value of clothes may be relatively low compared to other items, there are several online and offline platforms where you can sell your old clothes and turn them into cash. In this article, I’ll explore the best ways to sell your old clothes online and locally, providing you with tips and tricks along the way.

In today’s digital age, online platforms offer a convenient and efficient way to sell your old clothes. Websites like THREDUP, MERCARI, POSHMARK, and TRADESY have user-friendly interfaces and broad customer bases. Whether you’re a tech-savvy individual or new to selling clothes online, these platforms can help you reach potential buyers from the comfort of your home. I’ll delve deeper into the features and benefits of these platforms in the next section.

How to Sell Your Old Clothes

If you’re an avid social media user, you can also leverage platforms like Instagram and Facebook to sell your old clothes. By creating a profile or using dedicated selling groups, you can showcase your items and reach a wide audience. The power of social media lies in its ability to connect with people from all walks of life. In the section on selling clothes on social media, I’ll share tips and strategies to effectively promote your items and engage with potential buyers.

Online Platforms for Selling Old Clothes

Looking to sell your old clothes? Online platforms provide a convenient and efficient way to turn your pre-loved garments into cash. There are several trusted websites where you can sell clothes online and reach a wide audience of potential buyers.

THREDUP: With THREDUP, you can sell your clothes free of charge and enjoy the ease of their user-friendly interface. They also offer up to 80% of the selling price for your items. Simply pack your clothes and send them off for free!

MERCARI: MERCARI is an excellent platform for selling a wide variety of items, including clothing. They even offer a home pickup service, making it easy for you to sell your clothes without leaving your doorstep.

POSHMARK: If you’re looking for an online marketplace with a fun twist, POSHMARK’s themed parties make it enjoyable for buyers to browse and purchase items. You can list your clothes and connect with fashion enthusiasts with ease.

TRADESY: For those seeking a low commission rate and an easy listing process, TRADESY is a fantastic option. They provide a seamless selling experience and help you reach potential buyers effectively.

These online platforms offer various options to sell your old clothes and maximize your chances of finding a happy buyer. Whether you choose THREDUP, MERCARI, POSHMARK, or TRADESY, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free selling experience and the opportunity to make some extra cash.

Selling Clothes on Social Media

Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook provide excellent opportunities for selling your old clothes. With their vast user bases and engaging features, these platforms enable you to showcase your items and reach a wide audience.

To start selling clothes on social media, create a dedicated profile or join existing selling groups related to fashion and clothing. This allows you to connect with potential buyers who are specifically interested in purchasing pre-loved clothing.

When posting your items, make use of compelling visuals to capture the attention of viewers. High-quality images that showcase your clothes from different angles can significantly increase buyer interest. Additionally, incorporating relevant hashtags such as #prelovedfashion or #secondhandclothes can help expand your reach and attract users searching for specific items.

Engaging with your followers is crucial for building trust and encouraging sales. Respond promptly to inquiries and comments, providing any additional information potential buyers may need. Clear communication and excellent customer service can go a long way in securing sales and building a loyal customer base.

When selling clothes on social media, it’s essential to establish and communicate your selling terms clearly. This includes specifying payment methods, such as PayPal or Venmo, and outlining your shipping options, whether you offer local pickup or ship items directly.

Benefits of Selling on Social Media

  • Wide audience reach: Social media platforms boast billions of users, providing you with access to a large pool of potential buyers.
  • Engaged community: Fashion enthusiasts and bargain hunters actively participate in buying and selling groups, enhancing your chances of successful sales.
  • Cost-effective: Unlike some online platforms, selling clothes on social media is often free, allowing you to maximize your profits.
  • Direct communication: Interacting with buyers directly enables you to address their queries promptly and provide a personalized shopping experience.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to sell your old clothes on social media. Tap into the power of these platforms, leverage their features, and reach a wide audience of eager buyers. Turn your pre-loved items into cash today!

How to Sell Your Old Clothes
How to Sell Your Old Clothes

Local Options for Selling Old Clothes

If you prefer to sell your old clothes locally, there are several options available. You can explore stores like Buffalo Exchange and Local Clothing Exchanges that specialize in buying and selling secondhand clothes. Buffalo Exchange accepts a variety of items and offers cash on the spot for your old clothes. Meanwhile, local clothing exchanges often have an online presence, expanding their customer base beyond the local community.

Another great option for selling your old clothes locally is hosting a garage sale. Not only can you sell your old clothes, but you can also include other items you no longer need. Garage sales provide a personal touch and the opportunity to interact with potential buyers face-to-face, making it a fun and interactive selling experience.

Whichever local option you choose, take advantage of the convenience and personal touch they offer. Whether it’s selling your clothes directly to a store, utilizing online clothing exchanges, or hosting a garage sale, these options provide a unique way to sell your old clothes and connect with buyers in your community.

Selling Old Clothes on eBay

Despite some fee hikes, eBay remains one of the best ways to sell your old clothes online. With its advanced selling options and wide customer base, eBay offers a viable platform for turning your pre-loved garments into cash.

One of the biggest advantages of selling on eBay is that the first 100 auction-style listings are free, meaning you can get started without any upfront costs. Each additional item listed after the initial 100 only costs $0.30. Compared to many other clothing sales sites, eBay’s commission is also lower, charging only 10% of the total price of the item upon making a sale.

How to Sell Your Old Clothes
How to Sell Your Old Clothes

When selling on eBay, it’s essential to create a compelling listing that attracts potential buyers. Write a detailed description of your item, including its brand, size, and any unique features. Take high-quality photos from multiple angles to give buyers a clear view of the garment’s condition.

When pricing your clothes, consider the market value and the condition of the item. Research similar listings and set a competitive price to attract buyers. It’s also worthwhile to promote your eBay listings on social media platforms to increase visibility.

While eBay charges fees for its services, the platform’s advanced selling tools and large customer base make it an excellent choice for selling old clothes. By leveraging eBay’s reach and features, you can maximize your chances of selling your old clothes successfully.

Tips for Selling Old Clothes Successfully

To successfully sell your old clothes, keep these tips in mind:

  • Take high-quality photos of your items from multiple angles to provide potential buyers with a clear view.
  • Set realistic prices based on the condition and brand of the clothes.
  • Provide detailed descriptions, including brand, size, and any unique features.
  • Utilize social media and online selling groups to promote your items.
  • Offer competitive shipping options to attract more buyers.
  • Respond to inquiries promptly and politely to build trust with potential buyers.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of selling your old clothes successfully.

Selling Old Jewelry and Accessories

If you have old jewelry and accessories that you no longer wear, you can sell them online as well. There are platforms like I Do Now I Don’t that specialize in selling pre-owned jewelry. These platforms provide a marketplace for sellers to list their items and connect with potential buyers.

When selling your old jewelry and accessories online, it’s important to take clear and detailed photos of each item. Accurately describe the items, including their condition, brand, and any unique features. Set competitive prices to attract buyers and maximize your earnings.

By selling your old jewelry and accessories, you can further declutter your collection and earn extra cash. It’s a great way to give new life to items that may no longer hold personal value to you.

Selling Your Work Clothes at Consignment Shops

If you’re looking to sell your old clothes, consignment shops can be a great option, especially for your work clothes. Stores like Clothes Mentor, Buffalo Exchange, Uptown Cheapskate, and Plato’s Closet specialize in gently used clothing and offer cash or store credit in return. These consignment shops have specific standards for quality and pricing, so it’s important to ensure that your items meet their requirements.

Selling your work clothes at consignment shops not only allows you to declutter your wardrobe and earn some extra cash, but it also supports local businesses. Additionally, you may discover some new additions to your wardrobe while browsing the shops. It’s a win-win situation!

So gather up those work clothes that no longer fit your style or no longer serve their purpose. Take them to a consignment shop near you and let someone else benefit from their quality while you make some money in return. Remember to follow the shop’s guidelines and make sure your clothes are in good condition. Consignment shops make it easy to give your work clothes a second life in someone else’s closet.

Hosting a Garage Sale for Selling Old Clothes

If you’re looking for a traditional and effective way to sell your old clothes and make some cash, hosting a garage sale is a great option. Garage sales provide an opportunity to attract buyers and maximize your sales by offering a variety of items at attractive prices. Follow these tips to make your garage sale a success:

  1. Clean and Organize: Make sure to clean and organize your clothes before the sale. This will help attract buyers and showcase the quality of your items.
  2. Neat Display: Display your clothes neatly and categorize them by size or type. This will make it easier for buyers to browse and find what they’re looking for.
  3. Clear Pricing: Provide clear pricing information for each item. Use price stickers or tags to make it easy for buyers to identify and purchase the clothes they’re interested in.
  4. Promote Locally: Advertise your garage sale through local listings and signage in your neighborhood. This will attract potential buyers and increase foot traffic to your sale.

Hosting a garage sale requires more effort compared to online platforms, but it provides a unique opportunity to engage with your community and sell your old clothes for cash. By following these tips, you can create an attractive sale, attract buyers, and maximize your earnings.

How to Sell Your Old Clothes
How to Sell Your Old Clothes

Donating Old Clothes to Charity

If you prefer to donate your old clothes, there are organizations like Dress for Success and Goodwill that accept clothing donations. Dress for Success provides professional attire to low-income women for job interviews, helping them build confidence and achieve economic independence. Goodwill, on the other hand, accepts clothing donations and uses the proceeds from selling these items to fund employment and training programs for people in need. By donating your old clothes, you can make a positive impact on the lives of others while also decluttering your wardrobe.

Why Donate?

  • Make a difference: Donating your old clothes can have a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need.
  • Declutter your wardrobe: By getting rid of clothes you no longer wear, you can create space and achieve a more organized wardrobe.
  • Potential tax deduction: Depending on your location, donating to registered charities like Goodwill may allow you to claim deductions on your tax return. Consult a tax professional for specific guidelines.

Choosing the Right Charity

When deciding where to donate your clothes, it’s important to research and find a charity that aligns with your values and objectives. Consider factors such as the organization’s mission, the demographics they serve, and their reputation within the community. Dress for Success and Goodwill are just two examples of reputable charities that accept clothing donations, but there are many others to choose from.

Remember to check if the charity has specific guidelines for clothing donations, such as the condition and types of items they accept. Some organizations may only accept gently used or professional attire, while others may have restrictions on certain materials or styles.

By donating your old clothes to charity, you can make a positive impact in your community and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Tips for Selling Old Clothes Offline

When it comes to selling your old clothes offline, there are a few key tips and tricks that can help you make successful sales. Whether you’re planning to sell at consignment shops or host a garage sale, here’s what you need to know:

  1. Clean and prepare your clothes: Before selling, make sure your clothes are clean and in good condition. This will make them more appealing to potential buyers.
  2. Organize your clothes: To make it easier for buyers to browse, organize your clothes by category or size. This will help them quickly find what they’re looking for.
  3. Price competitively: Research the market and price your clothes competitively. Consider offering discounts for bulk purchases to incentivize buyers.
  4. Engage with potential buyers: Interact with potential buyers and provide them with any necessary information about the clothes. Offering personalized assistance can help build trust and increase your chances of making a sale.

By following these tips, you can enhance your offline selling experience and increase your chances of selling your old clothes successfully. Now, let’s explore more ways to turn your wardrobe into cash!

Conclusion

Selling your old clothes can be a rewarding way to declutter your wardrobe and earn some extra cash. Whether you choose to sell them online or offline, there are plenty of platforms and options available to suit your preferences and needs.

Online platforms like THREDUP, MERCARI, POSHMARK, and TRADESY offer convenience and a wider customer reach. These platforms provide user-friendly interfaces and attract a large number of potential buyers, allowing you to sell your old clothes quickly and easily.

If you prefer a more personal touch, consider exploring local options such as consignment shops or hosting a garage sale. These options allow you to interact with buyers face-to-face and potentially build connections within your community. Additionally, donating your old clothes to charities like Dress for Success and Goodwill not only helps those in need but also allows you to give back while decluttering your wardrobe.

Remember to follow the tips provided in this article to increase your chances of successful sales. Take high-quality photos, provide detailed descriptions, set realistic prices, and respond to inquiries promptly. With the right approach, you can turn your old clothes into cash and enjoy a clean and organized wardrobe.

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