If you’ve ever felt the urge to clear out old boxes or organize your home, you might want to pause before tossing anything away.

That forgotten drawer, dusty shelf, or sealed attic box could hold more than just memories—it might contain hundreds or even thousands of dollars’ worth of items.

According to a Nielsen survey for eBay, the average home in the US is sitting on about $3,100 in unused goods that could easily be turned into cash.

1. Vintage Toys: Childhood Memories, Adult Paydays​

Remember those toys you swore you’d never part with? Turns out, your nostalgia could be worth a bundle. Vintage pogo sticks can fetch $500 or more, original Cabbage Patch Dolls have sold for thousands, and some old Matchbox cars are collector goldmines. Don’t forget about eBid and other online marketplaces—sometimes, the right buyer is just a click away.

2. Comics and Magazines: Paper Gold​

You don’t have to be a comic book nerd to cash in. Early issues of X-Men, Flash, and Strange Tales have sold for over $20,000 each. Even vintage Sports Illustrated, TV Guide, and Time magazines are in demand. Dig through those old stacks—you might be sitting on a paper goldmine.

3. Books: First Editions and Hidden Gems​

Scan your shelves for first editions or signed copies. Sites like AbeBooks make it easy to check values. Rare finds can be worth thousands—like a signed first edition of One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest that once listed for $30,000. Even less rare books can bring in a tidy sum.

4. Designer Clothes: Fashion That Pays​

That designer dress or pair of shoes you wore once? It could be worth hundreds, even thousands. Christian Louboutin booties have sold for over $1,000 on Tradesy. Try thredUP, Poshmark, The RealReal, or local consignment shops for a quick sale.

5. Gaming Consoles and Accessories: Game On, Cash In​

Old PlayStations, Xboxes, and Nintendos are hot commodities. Used PlayStation 4s can sell for $200+, and even older models have value. Don’t forget about accessories and games—collectors and retro gamers are always on the hunt.

Also read: That '70s treasure hunt: Your dusty household items could be worth a fortune

6. Stereo Equipment: Turn Up the Value​

That old Pioneer or Marantz receiver from the 1970s? It could be worth hundreds. Boomboxes from the ’80s and Sony Walkmans are also in demand. Audiophiles love vintage gear, so check eBay or Craigslist before you donate.

7. Small Appliances: Kitchen Cash Cows​

Vintage mixers, milkshake machines, and other small appliances can be surprisingly valuable. An Oster mixer from the 1960s might bring $100, while a vintage Hamilton Beach milkshake mixer could fetch several times that. Even newer appliances in good condition are worth listing.

8. Costume Jewelry: Bling Without the Ka-Ching​

Don’t overlook that box of “junk” jewelry. Costume pieces, even those made from inexpensive materials, can be big sellers online. eBay and Etsy are great places to list, and local pawn shops often buy in bulk.

9. Furniture: Midcentury Modern Magic​

Midcentury modern furniture is all the rage. Scandinavian-inspired pieces, vintage lamps, and unique chairs can sell for thousands. Chairish and Etsy are top spots for selling, and they’ll even help with shipping.

10. Vinyl Records: Spin Your Way to Profit​

Vinyl is back in style, and collectors are willing to pay top dollar for rare records. An unreleased Elvis Presley acetate disc once listed for nearly $8,900! Check with local music stores or list on eBay.

11. Board Games: Family Fun, Financial Gain​

Vintage Monopoly and Mahjong sets are especially sought after. Some collector’s edition Monopoly games have sold for $800. Even if your games aren’t rare, they might still fetch more than you’d expect.

12. Glass Bottles: Bottled Up Value​

Collectors love old glass bottles, especially those from the 1800s and early 1900s. Mouth-blown and imprinted bottles are especially valuable. Check Collectors Weekly for a list of the most-wanted types.

13. Typewriters: Old-School Cool​

Typewriters are making a comeback. Rare metal-plated models can sell for $1,000 or more, but even standard models are worth something. Dust off that old Smith-Corona and see what it’s worth!

14. Photographs: Snapshots of History​

Old photos, especially those featuring celebrities, historical events, or military scenes, can be worth hundreds—or even thousands. One collection of Beatles photos sold for $46,000! Look for unique or historically significant images.



Also read: Are you secretly sabotaging your own space? 5 decluttering rules organizers live by

15. Workout Gear: Sweat Equity​

Vintage workout clothes and equipment are hot right now. Adidas windbreakers from the ’70s can sell for $50–$60, and old belt massagers have gone for over $100. If you’re ready to upgrade your fitness gear, cash in on the old stuff first.

16. Vintage Eyeglasses: See the Value​

Old eyeglasses, especially those over 25 years old, are in demand. Exclusive brands fetch the most, but even generic vintage frames can bring $50 or more. Check your drawers—you might have a pair or two lying around.

17. Gift Cards: Unused, Not Unwanted​

Got a gift card you’ll never use? Don’t let it gather dust. Most cards don’t expire and can be resold on sites like GiftDeals or eBay. Pharmacy, gas, and electronics cards are especially popular.

18. Military Memorabilia: History Sells​

Old uniforms, radios, helmets, and other military gear are hot sellers. Vietnam War-era items can fetch $500 or more. Even less rare items are in demand with collectors and history buffs.

19. Coupons: Clip and Cash In​

Believe it or not, coupons can be sold online. Baby formula coupons are especially valuable, sometimes listing for $10 or more. With a 97% sales success rate, it’s worth checking before you toss them.

20. Vintage Handmade Quilts: Cozy Cash​

Handmade quilts from the early 20th century are highly collectible. One example is listed for $675, and some can go for thousands. If you have a family heirloom quilt, it might be time to see what it’s worth.

Also read: Retire the clutter: 16 best apps seniors can use to buy and sell

Bonus Tips for Turning Clutter into Cash​

1. Do Your Research: Before listing, check completed sales on eBay or other marketplaces to get a sense of value.
2. Take Great Photos: Good lighting and clear images make your items more appealing.
3. Be Honest: Describe any flaws or wear—buyers appreciate transparency.
4. Consider Local Sales: For bulky items like furniture, local Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist listings can save you shipping headaches.
5. Bundle Up: Group similar items (like costume jewelry or books) for a quicker sale.

Read next:

• The old gadgets in your attic could be worth more than you think
• Could your old fast-food toys be worth more than you think?
• Are these 27 kitchen items secretly harming your health? Here’s what you might need to toss today

Have you ever sold something from around the house and been shocked by the price? Or maybe you have a family heirloom you’re curious about? Share your stories, tips, or questions in the comments below!