Turning clutter into cash: selling online

Most of us have stuff in our homes that we’ve held onto for years, just in case. Dumbbells for that at-home gym we swore we’d use, and maybe a surfboard or set of golf clubs that would be “perfect for when the weather gets warmer”.

But with everyday costs climbing, more Aussies are starting to see the value in letting go. We’re clearing out wardrobes, garages, and spare rooms - turning unwanted items into extra cash.

Whether you’re trying to make a bit of money on the side or just want to free up some space, selling second-hand items online is easier than you might think. Here’s how to get started, what items sell best, and how to sell things online safely.

What’s holding Australians back from decluttering?

Decluttering sounds simple in theory. But in practice, many Aussies are daunted by the process. According to the Choosi Clutter 2.0 Report, over one in four say they struggle to let go of things, even when they know they don’t need them. So, what’s stopping us?

The report found three main reasons:

1. Emotional attachment: Many people hold onto items for sentimental reasons, even if they haven’t used them in years. Things like gifts, childhood keepsakes, or items that belonged to loved ones, can be hard to part with.
2. The “just in case” mindset: Aussies often keep items out of fear that they might be useful one day. That slow cooker, spare cable, or stack of old magazines? They could come in handy… right?
3. Overwhelm: More than a third admit they find decluttering too stressful or time-consuming. Faced with a full garage or overstuffed wardrobe, it’s easy to put it in the “too hard” basket.

There’s also a sense of uncertainty; many people simply don’t know what’s worth selling or assume their clutter wouldn’t be valuable to others.

However, the truth is that the second-hand economy is thriving, and even seemingly ordinary items can fetch serious sums of cash online. With a few simple steps (and the right approach), turning clutter into extra income is easier than you might think.

Running out of storage space in your home? Along with selling your items online, decluttering and reorganising your items can be a practical place to start. Hear from decluttering expert Edel Beattie as she shares her tips and tricks to making the most out of the linen cupboard.

Why decluttering your home can boost your household income

When it comes to making extra money, you don’t always need a side hustle; you might just need to open a cupboard.

The Choosi Clutter 2.0 Report revealed that 61% of Australians have sold personal items or household goods through online marketplaces, often turning forgotten things into cash. And nearly half (48%) say they’re motivated by the potential financial boost that comes from selling what they no longer need.

In the midst of rising cost-of-living pressures, every dollar counts. Decluttering your home doesn’t just free up space, it can help ease the budget squeeze. That air fryer you used once? It could cover a week of groceries. The old phone in your bedside drawer? It might be worth more than you think.

And the beauty of selling second-hand is how quickly it adds up. A few sales here and there (books, kitchen appliances, clothes, furniture) can help pay down bills, top up savings, or fund something fun without dipping into your savings or everyday budget.

It’s also a chance to feel more in control. You’re not cutting back, you’re simply making the most of what you already own. In the process of decluttering, you can unlock a clearer home, a clearer head, and a bit of extra breathing room in your bank account.

With more Aussies jumping on board, second-hand selling online is fast becoming one of the simplest and most satisfying ways to boost household income - no garage sale required.

How to sell your things online

Selling second-hand has never been easier, or more popular. The Choosi Clutter 2.0 Report found that Facebook Marketplace (67%) is the go-to platform for Aussies looking to offload clutter, followed by Gumtree (43%) and eBay (38%). Whether it’s furniture, fashion, or an old phone, chances are someone out there is ready to buy it.

If you’re new to selling online, here’s how to get started:

• Pick your platform: Use Facebook Marketplace for quick, local sales. Gumtree is great for bulkier items or tools, while eBay works best for niche products or rare collectable items you’re willing to send via the post. Depop is also a common platform Aussies use for selling pre-loved clothing or accessories.
• Take clear photos: Use natural light, show every angle, and don’t hide wear and tear - honesty is always the best policy.
• Write a helpful description: Include the item’s brand, size, condition, and pickup or postage options. Keep the listing copy simple, to-the-point and genuine.
• Price it fairly: Check similar listings to gauge market value, and add “open to offers” if you’re flexible with the final sale price.
• Stay safe: Meet buyers in public, avoid sharing personal information, and use secure payment methods like PayID, PayPal or good old cash.

What second-hand items sell well online?

Not sure what’s worth listing? You’re not alone. One of the biggest mental blocks people face when decluttering is thinking, “Who would even want this?” But the second-hand market in Australia is thriving, and people are buying more than you might expect.

Here are a few item categories that consistently perform well online.

Electronics

If you’ve got an old phone, tablet, smartwatch, computer, headphones or Bluetooth speaker tucked away in a drawer, it could be worth more than you think. Even slightly outdated tech can sell, especially if it’s in a good working condition and comes with original accessories or packaging.

Popular items include:

• Mobile phones (especially iPhones and Samsungs)
• Laptops and tablets
• Gaming consoles
• Headphones and speakers
• Kitchen appliances (think air fryers, mixers, coffee machines)

💡 Choosi Tip: Always reset your device to factory settings and wipe any personal data before listing it for sale.

Branded clothing and accessories

Fashion is one of the biggest drivers of second-hand sales, particularly when it comes to quality or on-trend brands. Whether it’s a dress you wore once to a wedding or a pair of sneakers you’ve outgrown, branded items often sell quickly (especially on platforms like Depop or Poshmark).

Look out for:

• Activewear (e.g., Lululemon, Nike, P.E Nation)
• Australian labels (Aje, Gorman, Country Road)
• Designer denim
• Leather goods and bags
• Sneakers and boots in good condition
• Jewellery

💡 Choosi Tip: Clothing sells better when photographed clearly and styled neatly - bonus points if you include a try-on pic!

Collectibles and furniture

From vintage decor to IKEA shelves, both old and new furniture can be a hit on Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree, especially if it’s already assembled. Collectible items like records, retro games, figurines, or niche homewares also tend to attract a loyal buyer base.

Great sellers include:

• Coffee tables, storage units, armchairs
• Mid-century or “retro” style pieces
• Vinyl records and books
• Nostalgic toys, figurines, statues or memorabilia
• Lamps, prints, and mirrors

💡 Choosi Tip: Styling your furniture for the listing (a plant here, a cushion there) can help buyers imagine it in their own space.

How to safely sell second-hand items

Selling your personal items online can be a great way to make extra money, but staying safe is key. Here are a few simple ways to protect yourself:

• Meet in public places (like shopping centres or well-lit public areas)
• Tell a friend or housemate when and where you’re meeting someone, or go together
• Only share your address if you’re comfortable, and ideally when someone else is home
• Use secure payment methods like PayID, cash on pickup, PayPal or bank transfer (only once confirmed)
• Avoid overpayment offers; they’re a common scam tactic
• Don’t click suspicious links or share your email, banking details, or login info
• Use tracked postage when mailing items, and keep receipts
• Trust your gut - if something feels off, it’s okay to walk away

With the right precautions, you can sell with confidence and peace of mind.

Clear the clutter and protect what matters most

Selling your unused stuff online is a simple way to tidy up and make some extra money on the side, something more and more Aussies are doing as everyday costs go up. Once you’ve cleared out the things you no longer need, it’s a great opportunity to take stock of what you’re keeping and ensure it’s properly protected.

Whether it’s your furniture, tech, or sentimental treasures, home and contents insurance can help protect the belongings that make your space feel like home.

Ready to tick it off the list? Compare policies from Choosi’s approved product list and find cover that suits your lifestyle.