You know the golden rule of decluttering: If you haven’t worn or used it in a full year, it’s time to let go.
Of course, it’s not always that easy. Many items have sentimental value or were such a splurge that you can’t stand the thought of throwing away money. So don’t. Many retailers will buy used items from you, enabling you to recoup some of the cost.
The following retailers will give you cash or store credit for your clutter — from jackets and golf clubs to books and electronics.
1. Amazon
Items that are eligible for the Amazon Trade-In program include:
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Kindle e-readers
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Tablets
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Streaming media players
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Bluetooth speakers, including Echo devices
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Textbooks
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Phones
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Video games
Visit the Amazon Trade-In program webpage and click on the type of item you want to trade in to find out how much Amazon would give you for it.
If you proceed with the trade-in, Amazon will pay you via Amazon gift card. In some cases, you will receive instant payment. In other cases, Amazon will give you the gift card after it receives and appraises your item.
You will have to package up and ship your items to Amazon to trade them in, but there are no fees. Amazon will give you a prepaid shipping label.
2. Best Buy
Ready for the next iPhone? The Best Buy Trade-In program will take your old one. In fact, Best Buy accepts a variety of electronics, including:
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iPhones
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iPads
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Gaming systems
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Laptops
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Samsung mobile devices
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Microsoft Surface devices
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Video games
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Smartwatches
Visit the Best Buy Trade-In program webpage and check out the “Estimate Your Trade-In Value” section to gauge what your item is worth. Then, turn it in at a participating store for a Best Buy gift card.
3. GameStop
GameStop accepts the following items:
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Video games
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Gaming systems
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Phones
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Tablets
You turn in devices at a local GameStop. You will get to choose cash or store credit. Be mindful, though: Trade promotions — which are listed on GameStop’s trade webpage — change frequently.
4. Half Price Books
Sometimes it pays to hold on to things. Half Price Books buys collectible books, music and magazines.
The chain also buys all sorts of:
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Books
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Textbooks
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Audiobooks
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Music, including CDs and LPs
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Movies
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E-readers
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Phones
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Tablets
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Video games
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Gaming systems
You can sell your merchandise at a store — but not an outlet location. Half Price Books will give you cash.
5. Patagonia
Patagonia is so dedicated to reducing waste that the outdoor-gear retailer created Worn Wear. This is where you can shop for gently used Patagonia clothing and luggage or trade in your own Patagonia clothing and luggage for credit.
You can use the credit at Patagonia stores, Patagonia.com and WornWear.com