Spring also has a sneaky tendency to bring on sudden urges to reorganize all that you own. Perhaps it’s the sun finally shining on that grimy corner of your guest room, or maybe it’s simply the guilt of unused items accumulating.
Whatever the case, you’re probably waist-deep in a ‘keep, discard, or donate’ dilemma. Hold on—before you haul that old side table to the curb or box up grandma’s quilt, you’ll want to make sure you’re not tossing money out the window.
As it turns out, a little of that clutter taking over your house could bring in some extra (and even big) bucks if you know how. Here’s what’s worth selling—and what you’re better off donating.
1. Vintage Lighting
If you’ve got a dusty lamp sitting in your garage that looks like it could’ve starred in a Nancy Meyers movie, don’t toss it. Unique vintage lighting is in demand—people love curated, character-rich spaces, and a Capiz shell chandelier or a funky 1970s pendant can fetch hundreds.
Even non-working pieces can attract restoration fans. The key? Clean it, look for maker’s marks or brand names, and take good photos. Oh—and pass on those dime-a-dozen Ikea knockoffs. Only unique, character-rich pieces will actually earn you some cash.
2. Wicker Furniture
Not all wicker is created equal. That large box, plastic-coated patio set? Maybe give it away. But authentic vintage rattan from decades ago? That’s gold now. Buyers want that open, retro look to finish off their three-season rooms or sun-drenched patios.
Wicker chairs, side tables, even ottomans—particularly from manufacturers such as Heywood Wakefield—are trendy again. If it’s still in good condition (no mildew or broken weaving), you can sell it for a few hundred dollars. Style and age factor in, but even anonymous sets can still bring something worthwhile with the right buyer.
3. Handmade Quilts
You know those handmade quilts that are piled up in the back of your linen closet? The ones you promised yourself you’d use one day? Well, those might just be pieces of art. Antique quilts—particularly ones with unusual patterns such as Lone Star or those hand-quilted Kantha quilts—are being snatched up for decor and display.
People love how warm they are and the way they anchor a room. You can earn anywhere from $50 to a few thousand dollars, based on condition and style. And even if you’re unsure, list it anyway. Worst case? No buyers. Best case? A bidding war.
4. Murano Glass
Murano glass is an underrated second-hand gem. If you inherited multi-colored vases, figurines, or groovy glass chandeliers that never really fit your decor, don’t write them off. This Venetian glass has a cult following and consistently fetches $50 to $200 per piece, depending on the design and creator.
Collectors always want mid-century sets in good condition—bonus points if you still have the original labels or boxes. Just be careful not to confuse mass-produced colored glass with the good stuff; Murano is hand-blown, vibrantly colored, and full of personality.
5. Vintage Wood Furniture
Chunky, ornate wood furniture is making a comeback—especially Eastlake and Mission-style pieces. While minimalism had its moment, traditional design is quietly reclaiming its space in design trends. So if you’ve got a Victorian-era dresser or a heavy wood sideboard gathering dust, this could be your moment.
Good condition is key, but minor wear can add charm. Restoration hobbyists love these finds. You can expect to make a few hundred dollars (or more) per piece. And yes, even if it’s been holding old board games and ancient tax returns, it might be worth putting up.
6. Framed Prints & Art
That pile of framed prints stacked against the back of your bookcase might just be your next paycheck. Original artwork, old posters, and signed prints also sell well—particularly if they’re created by well-known artists or simply visually appealing.
You won’t get a return on what grandma paid at the gallery in ’85, but you can still make $50 to $500 or more depending on the artwork. Buyers are seeking wall-worthy artwork as well as fashionable decor accessories. Bonus: it’s simple to ship, and art collectors browse sites like Etsy, Chairish, and eBay on the regular. Dust it off, take a photo, and list it.
What to Donate Instead
Naturally, not all that you uncover in your spring purge is a money-maker. Collector plates from the ’80s? No. Porcelain dolls with glassy eyes under a layer of dust? No. And formal china sets, the Sunday dinner star of yesteryear, are unfortunately out of style.
Dining room sets, particularly large and cumbersome ones, are also difficult to fob off in the casual open-plan homes of today. The effort of listing and hauling some of these items is not worth the minimal or no return. Donate and free up your space (and your time).
Listing for Success
Have a few good prospects? Good. Now comes the fun part—listing. Post clean, well-lit photos (natural light is always best), honest but enticing descriptions, and include dimensions and condition. If you have any provenance, list it.
Start your price slightly higher than your bottom line—people do love to negotiate. Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Chairish, and even local auction houses are good places to start. And keep in mind, things don’t need to sell overnight. Take a wait-and-see approach, adjust listings if you must, and you can swap spring clutter for summer spending money.
A Fresh Start With Cash in Hand
Spring cleaning is not about cleaning up—it’s about clearing space for what’s really important. Whether that’s fresh furniture, a clean room, or simply some additional money in your pocket, smart selling helps make the entire process a lot more enjoyable.
You don’t have to be a designer or antiques expert to find treasure in your home—just a little research and a keen eye. So go ahead, root around in those cupboards and dusty corners. You never know—your buried treasures may just finance your next vacation. Or at least a good cup of coffee.
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