What’s in your closet that could get you extra cash? Via Shutterstock
This weekend I set out to sell the unwanted clothes in my overflowing closet. The experience taught me a few tips I’m passing onto you in case, you too, have made it your goal to earn extra income this year. Here’s what to do if you want to make extra money selling your clothes.
- Research the store you’ll be selling to. You want to familiarize yourself with their customers, and their style. After all, these are the people who will be buying your unwanted clothes. Ask how much money you can expect to make. Some stores will give you between 30 percent and 45 percent of what the item will be priced. You’ll want to go with the consignment store that offers the most money!
- Labels are important, but style trumps everything. You won’t necessarily get more money for designer clothes. Depending on the store’s clientele, you may end up getting more money for inexpensive clothes from Forever 21 or H&M. This may be because the store caters to teens and young adults.
- Take the time of year into consideration. I wanted to sell an Old Navy coat that was worn only a few times by my little sister, but it was rejected. Boo! The store’s coat inventory was already full. Lesson learned. Try to sell clothes at the beginning of the season, not mid-season to up your chances of earning cash. Ask stores what they are currently looking to buy so you don’t make unnecessary trips. Need to get rid of shorts and tank tops? Hit consignment stores at the beginning of spring.
- Lauder clothes before attempting to sell. You want them to look and smell clean. Yellow armpit stains and holes will only get your shirts turned down. I’ve learned vinegar works wonders on yellow armpit stains. Here are more secret uses for vinegar.
- If the price is not right, you CAN walk away. Don’t feel obligated to sell your clothes at a consignment store.
- Consider other methods of selling clothes. Consignment stores are not your only option. Have a garage sale, sell clothes on eBay, and even swapping can help you save or make money. From my experience, selling your own clothes can be more profitable, though it will take up more time.
Welcome to Bargain Babe! I’m Mara, and I’m so glad you’re here. I am an obsessive bargain hunter and penny pincher, and I am determined to live a full life without EVER paying full price.
I’ve never had success selling adult clothes. That includes my kids stylish jeans and designer labels. What I have had success in selling was my kid’s clothes (newborn to 6X) and paraphernalia. The best deal I got on those was selling for credit at my local kid’s consignment store.
In terms of the best “bang for the buck” on clothes, I find that donating them to a charity and taking the tax deduction is the best return. It doesn’t put cash in your pocket right away, but it does keep them out of the landfill, clear out your closet, help your local non-profit AND give a tax break.
@Bobbi Great advice! Donating clothes doesn’t take up so much time and you eventually get a tax break.
@Bobbi. Ditto. I’ve called a local consignment shop several times, and they are always so full they won’t even take my adult clothes! I only put aside my most stylish things for them, so it’s disappointing. I may end up donating them, but the prospect of getting cash for some of the higher end items makes me hesitate. I donate lots of everyday items.
Where did you sell your clothes?
@Eva I went to Buffalo Exchange. I may try another consignment store this weekend just to compare.
@Eva and @Yazmin Isn’t there another consignment store just down the street from Buffalo Exchange on Ventura in the Valley? Can’t remember the name of it now…think it’s in Sherman Oaks.
I sell all my outgrown kids’ clothes, toys, ect at Just Between Friends Sales Events. You can price them yourselves, drop them off, and pick up or donate your unsold items. Super easy and fun.
You can find an event near you at http://www.jbfsale.com
@Tyona Albrecht I’ve never rhead of Just Between Friends – thanks for the tip! The sale sounds a lot like a consignment sale, just a different franchise/brand name. What percentage of the sale price do you get?
Yup…..going to Salvation Army or Goodwill is the answer……No immediate cash, but in the end you will. A lot easier than calling places to find out if they do consignment and dickering over price. Anybody want to buy a bridesmaid’s dress from 1989? LOL
@Michelle Ventresca Ha! My mother made me take home my junior year prom dress the last time I was home. I can’t bear to part with it!
I’ve tried selling clothes to Crossroads (similar to Buffalo Exchange) but had little luck. I’ve had some success with Poshmark, an iPhone and iPad app, but it’s slow-going. I’ll probably end up donating most of my unwanted clothes for the tax break.
you can also have a garage sale. 🙂