As the weather gets warmer, it’s time to start planning your garage sale. But before you put everything out on the driveway, it is important to know what items will sell and what items will not.
There are certain items that people do not want to buy second-hand, no matter how good of a deal they may be getting.
From old electronics to baby clothes, there are some things that just don’t sell well at garage sales.
Here is a list of 10 items that you should avoid selling at garage sales.
Also Read: How To Have a Successful Garage Sale!! (13 Tips For Beginners)
What Not To Sell at Garage Sales (10 Items To Avoid!)
There are certain items that are just not suitable for garage sales. If you’re looking to have a successful garage sale, here are 10 items you should avoid selling:
1. Ugly & Poorly Used Decor Items
When it comes to having a garage sale, there are certain things you should avoid selling. This includes any ugly or poorly used decor items.
Nobody wants to buy something that is going to be an eyesore in their home. It’s important to only sell decor items that are in good condition and that you would be proud to display in your own home.
This way, you’re more likely to get rid of everything you’re trying to sell and make some extra money in the process.
2. Big CRT Tv’s
When you’re cleaning out your garage and getting ready for a sale, you may be tempted to include that old CRT TV.
But resist the urge! Here’s why you should avoid selling big CRT TVs at your garage sale.
First, they’re heavy and difficult to move. Plus, they take up a lot of space, which means you won’t be able to fit as much stuff in your garage.
And let’s face it: most people are looking for smaller, more practical items at garage sales.
They don’t want to have to lug a heavy TV home and find a place for it in their already- cramped living rooms.
Also, CRT TVs are outdated technology, in the era of 4k, 8k, LED, OLED models nobody wants to buy an old CRT TV for their living room.
3. First Copy & Fake Items
When you have a garage sale, it’s important to be mindful of the items that you’re selling. Avoid selling any first copy or fake items, as this can lead to buyers feeling cheated.
Not only that but selling counterfeit items is illegal in many states.
To avoid selling fake items, do your best to research the authenticity of an item before listing it for sale.
If an item is a first copy or fake, it’s likely that there will be some telltale signs that you can spot if you’re looking closely enough.
If you’re unsure about an item’s authenticity, it’s better to err on the side of caution and not sell it.
It’s also important, to be honest with buyers about the condition of an item. If an item is well-worn or damaged, make sure to note that in the description.
By being honest and upfront with buyers, you’ll avoid any potential problems down the road.
Also Read: How To Price Garage Sale Items (6 Best Ways!!)
4. Any Medicine, Supplement or Chemical Based Item
When having a garage sale, avoid selling any medicine, supplement, or chemical-based item. These items may be expired or dangerous for others to use.
There are a few reasons why these items shouldn’t be sold. First, it’s illegal to sell prescription drugs without a license.
Second, many over-the-counter medicines and supplements expire quickly and may no longer be effective.
Finally, chemicals can be dangerous if they’re not handled properly.
If you are unsure about an item, do not sell it. It is not worth the risk of someone getting hurt.
5. Baby Products
There are a few reasons why you shouldn’t sell baby products at your garage sale.
First, they may not be safe anymore. If the product is more than a few years old, it might not meet current safety standards.
Second, people can be very picky about what they use for their babies. Even if the product is in good condition, some parents might not want to use it because it’s already been used by some other baby.
So I suggest you avoid baby products at your garage sale, you can sell a few products like baby strollers, car seats, toys, and games but only if you are 100% sure about their quality and condition.
6. Upholstered Furniture
Upholstered furniture is the perfect breeding ground for bed bugs and other insects. These pests love to hide in the cracks and crevices of couches and chairs, and they can easily hitch a ride on unsuspecting customers.
So unless you’re willing to take the time to thoroughly inspect and clean your upholstered furniture, it’s best to leave it off the sales floor.
Not only will you avoid a potential infestation, but you’ll also save yourself the hassle of dealing with returns or refunds.
7. Used Beauty Items
When you have a garage sale, you want to get rid of as much stuff as possible. But there are some things you should never sell, no matter how much someone is willing to pay. Used beauty products are one of those things.
Here’s why:
First of all, nobody wants to buy used makeup and beauty items. It’s just gross. Even if the product is unopened, it’s been sitting in somebody else’s house.
Plus, once a product is opened, it can start to degrade and become dangerous.
Second, selling used beauty products can be bad for your health.
If somebody buys a used item and gets a skin infection or other problem, they could come after you for damages.
And even if they don’t sue you, it’s just not worth the risk to your reputation.
Also Read: How To Find Garage Sales Near You (9 Best Apps & Websites)
8. Underwear & Inner Wears
Well, I don’t think I have much to say here, just a question, would you buy someone’s used undergarments? NO right?
So you should avoid selling underwear and innerwear as these items are considered personal items.
Also, not everyone is comfortable with the idea of strangers handling and potentially trying on their undergarments. By avoiding selling these items, you can avoid any potential awkwardness or discomfort.
Additionally, many people may be hesitant to purchase used undergarments due to hygiene concerns. By not selling these items, you can avoid any potential negative feedback or reviews.
9. Stuffed Animals
While they may be cute and cuddly, stuffed animals can often be home to dust mites, mold, and other allergens.
They can also be breeding grounds for bacteria and insects. If you have any stuffed animals that are in good condition, it’s best to donate them to a local charity or throw them away for free.
If you do decide to sell stuffed animals at your garage sale, make sure to inspect them carefully first. Look for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Also, check for any stains or spots that could be indicative of mold or mildew growth.
10. Used Shoes
While it’s certainly fine to sell other used items, shoes can pose a health hazard.
Used shoes can harbor bacteria and fungi, which can cause skin irritation or even infections.
So unless you’re selling them to a friend or family member who knows what they’re getting into, it’s best to leave them out of your garage sale.
FAQ on What Not To Sell at a Garage Sale
Here are some frequently asked questions.
Can you sell electrical items at a garage sale?
The answer to your question is yes, you can sell electrical items at a garage sale. However, there are some things to keep in mind before doing so.
First, you need to make sure that the electrical item is in good working condition and is safe to use. Second, you should price the item accordingly, taking into consideration its condition and the original price of the item.
What should you not buy at a garage sale?
There are certain items that one should avoid purchasing at a garage sale. These include poor and dirty clothing or jewelry, and items that are of a perishable nature, such as food & any other consumables.
Additionally, one should be wary of purchasing electrical items, as they may not be in proper working order. Finally, one should avoid purchasing any item that appears to be damaged or in poor condition.
What are good things to sell at a garage sale?
Some common items to sell at garage sales are good quality clothes, books, video games, puzzles, decor items, and children’s toys.
You can also sell household items such as dishes, pots and pans, and small appliances.
To make the most money, it is important to price your items reasonably. You can also offer discounts if someone buys multiple items.
Do stuffed animals sell at garage sales?
Well, stuffed animals do sell at garage sales but I won’t recommend you sell that unless they are in awesome condition.
First off, stuffed animals just don’t tend to fetch much money at garage sales.
They’re the kind of thing people expect to grab for a quarter or less.
So realistically you’d probably make very little from selling them.
Plus, there’s the whole hygiene factor. People tend to be iffy about buying used stuffed animals that have been lovingly dragged around and snuggled with by someone else’s kids.
Unless the animals are brand new in original packaging, buyers may worry about them being dirty or contaminated in some way.
Final Words
In conclusion, if you’re looking to make some quick cash at your next garage sale, avoid selling these 10 items.
Baby items, used cosmetics, old electronics, and more can be difficult to sell and often aren’t worth the effort.
Instead, focus on items that are popular among garage sale shoppers and easy to sell. With a little planning, you can have an amazing yard sale.
Hey there! I’m Rohit Lohia, a passionate SEO enthusiast and the proud founder of Branded Bucks. I’m all about helping small business owners achieve success online through my blog. Join me on this exciting journey as we explore ways to make money online and build a thriving digital presence.