How to sell toys on eBay and Vinted

• That it's complete: every piece, card, counter and accessory.
• That it works, with batteries tested if it needs them.
• Safety marks such as the CE or UKCA mark, and the age guidance.
• Damage: broken parts, chewed pieces, missing eyes on soft toys, sharp edges.
• Cleanliness and whether it's from a smoke-free or pet-free home, if you can honestly say so.
• The original box and instructions.

1. The toy on its own, on a plain background.
2. Everything included, laid out so buyers can count the pieces.
3. The box, instructions and any safety labels or marks.
4. The toy switched on or working, if it has lights or sounds.
5. Any damage or wear.
6. The battery compartment, showing it's clean and free of corrosion.

• Brand and toy name first.
• Add the character or range buyers search for.
• Say whether it's complete and boxed.
• Add the age range if useful.

Example title

Fisher-Price Little People Farm Playset Complete with Animals, Sounds Work

Words buyers search for

• complete
• boxed
• working
• bundle
• board game
• playset
• soft toy
• wooden toy
• educational
• age 3+
• Christmas
• gift

• Size in cm for larger toys and playsets.
• Number of pieces, as listed in the instructions.
• Battery type needed and whether batteries are included.
• Age guidance from the box or label.

• Say how you checked it's complete: counted against the box or instructions.
• Say whether it works and how you tested it.
• Describe wear such as scuffs, faded colours or missing stickers.
• Never sell a toy with damage that could make it unsafe, such as exposed wires or loose small parts.

Vinted tends to suit toys and kids' bundles, especially for parents who are also buying children's clothes.

eBay tends to suit collectable toys, named ranges and complete boxed sets, where buyers search by name.

Bundles of smaller toys often sell more easily than single items on both platforms.

• Bag small pieces together so nothing gets lost.
• Pack the original box inside a larger box to protect it.
• Take out batteries before posting.
• Check the size and weight on the postage guide; bulky playsets may need a medium parcel.

Not sure which parcel size you need? Check the postage size guide.

• Not checking whether all the pieces are there.
• Selling a toy that has been recalled.
• Leaving batteries in the toy.
• Not saying whether it works.
• Listing toys without the age guidance from the box.

How do I check if a toy has been recalled?

In the UK, search the Product recalls and alerts list on gov.uk. You can also check the manufacturer's website.

Can I sell soft toys second-hand?

Generally yes, if they're clean and safe. Check for loose eyes or other parts, and wash them if the label allows.

Should I sell toys in bundles?

Bundles of similar toys or toys for the same age group are popular with parents and save you listing lots of small items.