Old TVs and Ratty Sofas: 9 Things You Should Never Sell at a Garage Sale

Spring is the perfect time to clean out junk — and possibly make a few dollars while you're at it. If you're into the idea of holding a garage sale, it's not as easy as you may think. Before you throw everything you want to get rid of on a table and call it a sale, take a quick moment to reassess. Here are a few things you should never, ever, sell at a garage sale.

Editor's note: This story was updated in June 2024

Wood framed furniture or metal dining chairs often will sell if in good condition, but if you’re trying to dump a ratty old fabric sofa, good luck. First off, it’s likely heavy to move, and secondly, anything that’s got stains, holes, or is just completely out of date is probably better in the dump.

As if this wasn't embarrassment enough, do remember that lots of people have their kids in tow when they drop by your yard sale. They aren't looking for a teachable moment when flipping through your old DVDs, so check what's there before you drag it outside. Also, keep in mind you'll probably have to see these people again, and you may not want to be remembered as the neighbor who likes, well, you know.

While it seems as if you could take a coat to a cleaner to rid it of any weird patterning, it's going to cost you — probably as much as what you would spend on a new leather coat. If you're intent on tossing it in the sale pile, be frank with any potential buyer. 

You'd be surprised how many people clean out their old foundation and eyeliner at yard sales, but don't be one of them. It's a good way to give one of your neighbors an eye infection, and it's just bad karma, even if you only used it once.

Seriously, does anyone really have a need for an old TV set anymore? Probably not. You can’t even donate those things anymore to Goodwill, which is a bad sign that they'll likely not sell anywhere. 

Related: What Is a Thrift Store and How Is It Different From Other Shops?

Old landline phones, VCRs, fax machines — if you don’t have a use for something obsolete, why would somebody else? Instead of sending these items to the landfill, look into finding an electronics recycling program near you. Depending on the item, your local Best Buy may also take it for recycling. 

Related: What Does Refurbished Mean — and Is It Worth It?

Be especially careful with things like children’s items, which often see a whole host of recalls. It’s actually illegal to resell a recalled item per the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA). You may even risk being fined.

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Hear us out on this. You may possibly get much more money for these items if you get them appraised or go through a consignment store. Don’t sell yourself short just to get rid of stuff. You may be able to find an appraiser through the International Society of Appraisers. 

Sure, maybe your broken furniture or banged-up coffee mugs just need some TLC, but no one else wants to take on your problems. There are some items you can throw in the trash, you know.