From clutter to cash: how your unused items can pay your bills
By Max van Nijnatten – 4 minute read
Got a drill in your closet that’s barely seen the light of day? A tent used once for a music festival? Maybe a fancy blender collecting dust since your last smoothie phase? Good news: your forgotten stuff might be worth more than you think.
In a time when every euro counts and conscious consumption is on the rise, more people are choosing to rent things outinstead of letting them sit unused. Welcome to the shareconomy—where your clutter becomes your side hustle.
You don’t need a second job—you need a smarter one
With inflation, high rent, and rising living costs, finding ways to make extra income is a reality for many. But working longer hours isn’t always the answer. What if the solution is already in your home?
By renting out items you already own—think bikes, power tools, speakers, projectors, party gear—you can start earning without buying anything new or changing your daily routine. It’s a low-effort, high-impact way to ease financial stress and help others at the same time.
The stats don’t lie: people want to rent, not own
Let’s face it: people don’t always want to buy something they’ll only use once or twice. That’s why peer-to-peer platforms like ivault are gaining traction. In fact, research shows that items like drills are used for an average of just 13 minutes in their lifetime. Renting these out gives others affordable access—and gives you money back in your pocket.
The demand is real. People are looking for everything from camping gear and DJ equipment to furniture, games, kitchen appliances, and even baby items. If you own it, there’s probably someone nearby who wants to borrow it.
How to get started: turn your stuff into steady income
- Take stock: Walk through your home and identify underused items with value. Ask yourself, “Have I used this in the past 6 months?”
- List it smartly: Use a trusted sharing platform like ivault. Take clear photos, write short honest descriptions, and set fair prices.
- Be local-first: Renting to neighbors is easier, safer, and more convenient. Plus, it keeps your carbon footprint low.
- Earn and repeat: With each rental, you’re making passive income while promoting conscious consumption in your community.
A win for you, your neighbors, and the planet
Renting things out doesn’t just benefit your wallet—it supports your community and reduces overproduction. Instead of buying new, more people can access what they need temporarily. That means less waste, fewer emissions, and stronger local ties.
You’re not just making money—you’re becoming part of a bigger movement toward smarter, kinder, more sustainable living.
So, the next time you look at that slow cooker you used once or that GoPro from your last vacation, ask yourself:
Could this be paying my bills right now?
It probably could.