Learn practical tips to make extra cash selling old stuff in the UK. Discover the best platforms, real stories, pricing strategies, and how to maximise your earnings in 2025.
Real Story: Kate’s Decluttering Success
Kate, a teacher from Bristol, decided to clear out her clutter with the goal of making extra money before Christmas. She started by selling unused clothes, books, and electronics on popular UK platforms. Within two months, she earned over £400, which she used to treat her family. “I was surprised how many things I didn’t need but others wanted. Selling online gave those items a second life and helped my budget.”
Why Selling Old Stuff Works in the UK
Many Britons sit on items they rarely use, from gadgets to clothes to homeware. The growing popularity of resale and second-hand markets means demand is high and sellers can turn clutter into cash without much effort.
Best Platforms to Sell Old Stuff in the UK
| Platform | Best For | Fees | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| eBay | Electronics, collectibles | Final value fee (up to ~12%) | Auctions and Buy It Now |
| Facebook Marketplace | Furniture, local sales | Free | Local pickup, easy listing |
| Depop | Vintage clothes, fashion | 10% fee on sales | Social selling, trending |
| Gumtree | Furniture, miscellaneous | Mostly free, paid promos available | Local sales, classifieds |
| Vinted | Clothes, shoes | Free, buyer pays shipping | Buyer protection, easy swaps |
| Amazon Marketplace | Books, tech | Referral and subscription fees | Large audience, trusted |
Tips to Maximise Your Earnings
1. Clean and Repair Items
Make your items look appealing with basic cleaning or fixing minor damage.
2. Take Clear, Bright Photos
Good photos attract more buyers and justify higher pricing.
3. Write Detailed Descriptions
Be honest and highlight features, condition, and any flaws.
4. Research Prices
Check what similar items sell for and price competitively.
5. Bundle Items
Combine smaller items into sets for better value and shipping savings.
6. Be Responsive and Polite
Quick replies and a friendly attitude encourage good ratings and repeat buyers.
How to Sell Safely
- Meet in public, well-lit places for local pickups.
- Use tracked postage services for mailed items.
- Avoid sharing personal info beyond necessary.
- Check buyer reviews on platforms where possible.
Pricing Strategy Examples
| Item Type | Average Price Range (£) | Pricing Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Electronics | £20-£200+ | List original specs, include accessories |
| Clothes | £5-£50 | Brand name and condition matter |
| Books | £1-£20 | Rare books or collections sell higher |
| Furniture | £30-£300+ | Offer local delivery for bulky items |
| Toys & Games | £5-£50 | Complete sets and good condition |
FAQs About Selling Old Stuff in the UK
Q: Are there any fees?
Depends on platform; Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree are mostly free, others like eBay or Depop charge commissions.
Q: How long does it take to sell?
Varies widely; popular, well-priced items can sell in days; others may take weeks.
Q: Can I sell broken or damaged items?
Yes, but be honest about condition and price accordingly.
Q: How do I ship items?
Use Royal Mail or courier services with tracking and insurance options.
Call to Action
Ready to declutter and make extra cash? Start today by listing your first items on one or two platforms that fit your stuff type. Share this guide with friends who might want to turn unused treasures into money. Visit uk.savewithrupee.com for more tips, selling tricks, and money-saving advice tailored for UK sellers in 2025. Clear space, earn cash, and feel great!
I’m the founder of Save With Rupee – UK Edition. I write practical, easy-to-follow guides on UK money topics — from credit and insurance to side hustles, savings, and investing. My mission is simple: to help everyday people in Britain make smarter financial choices, one pound at a time. Click here to more Details