What NOT to Sell at a Garage Sale (And What to Do Instead!)

Garage sales are great for decluttering and earning a little extra cash—but not everything belongs on your folding table. Some things just won’t sell, some could actually drive buyers away, and others are better handled in different ways.

Here’s a list of the top things you should avoid selling at your garage sale—and smart alternatives for what to do instead.

1. Used Undergarments

Let’s just say it: no one wants someone else's underwear. Even if it’s barely worn or brand new with tags, most garage sale shoppers will skip this table.

Instead: Donate new/unused items to shelters or thrift stores. Recycle textiles if they’re worn out.

2. Old Beauty Products

That half-used bottle of hair gel from 2019? Yeah, no. Expired or opened cosmetics can pose health risks and make your table look cluttered.

Instead: Toss anything expired. Unused items (still sealed) may be accepted by shelters or Buy Nothing groups.

3. Broken Electronics

You might think someone could fix that ancient VCR, but most garage sale shoppers aren't looking to repair—they want plug-and-play.

Instead: Recycle through e-waste programs or Best Buy’s tech recycling.

4. Stained or Torn Clothing

Even if you’d wear it for painting, most people won’t pay for damaged clothing.

Instead: Create a “FREE RAGS” bin (clearly marked) or upcycle into cleaning cloths.

5. Recalled or Outdated Baby Gear

That 10-year-old car seat might still look sturdy, but safety standards change—and selling recalled items can even be illegal.

Instead: Check for recalls at cpsc.gov. Donate current models to parenting groups.

6. Old Mattresses and Pillows

Even if they're clean, buyers worry about bedbugs and general “ick” factor.

Instead: Some cities have mattress recycling programs. Donate gently used items where accepted.

7. Outdated Textbooks and Manuals

Unless it's a vintage collectible, most educational books over 5 years old have little value.

Instead: Recycle or donate to schools or creative reuse centers.

8. VHS Tapes and Cassette Tapes

Unless you’re selling Disney Black Diamond editions or rare music, these usually don’t sell.

Instead: Bundle for free, upcycle, or donate to collectors.

9. Personal Medical Equipment

Used CPAP machines, glucose meters, or walkers raise hygiene and liability concerns.

Instead: Donate to medical equipment charities (with approval).

10. Worn Shoes

Unless they’re designer or practically new, shoes that are stretched or worn rarely get picked up.

Instead: Donate to shelters or use recycling programs.

11. Used Socks

You’d be surprised how many people put socks on the table. But it’s a hard “no” for most shoppers.

Instead: Use for rags or crafting. Discard if damaged.

12. Tax Documents or Paper Files

Yes, people sometimes try to sell old filing cabinets... full of paper. Don’t risk your personal info being taken.

Instead: Shred sensitive info. Recycle the rest.

Bonus: What to Sell Instead

• Kids’ toys and books (clean and gently used)
• Small furniture
• Seasonal décor
• Tools and yard equipment
• Collectibles and vintage kitchenware
• Gently worn clothing (in trend or brand-name)

Final Thoughts

Garage sales are all about creating a fun, clean, and safe shopping space. Skip the stuff that won’t sell—or could harm your reputation—and focus on what people actually want. You’ll make more money, have a better experience, and clean out your space the right way.