However much we try and get the message across with hints and subtle suggestions there's bound to be the odd present you received this Christmas which doesn't tick any boxes for you. But what do you do with unwanted gifts? Add them to the not insubstantial pile of clutter already stored away in one of those 'I'll deal with it one day' hidden places we all seem to have tucked away somewhere?

Why not think about selling them on ebay or a car boot sale? You'll probably have quite a bit of fun doing it and will make yourself some extra cash at this particularly lean time of year.

If you've just got a few bits and pieces you might want to try ebay first. Ebay works like an online auction. Once you've registered all you have to do is upload a photograph of the item you want to auction and set a Buy-It-Now price for the amount you expect your item is worth - setting it higher for something rare and down a little if you want to sell it off quickly. You might want to do a little research first and look to see how much similar items are selling for. Then set the starting price, or opening bid. Don't set your opening bit too high though - you want to encourage as many bids as possible.

Try and take care when photographing your items to be auctioned - a good photograph can really make a difference. If it's your first time on ebay try and enlist the help of a teenage son or daughter or even your neighbours! Although ebay is incredibly easy to use you'll be amazed at how quickly they can usually work out how to get your account up and running!

If you really do have a huge amount you want to get rid of why not try a car boot sale, they can be great fun and you may come away amazed at how much money you've made?

It's usually easier - and more fun - to do it with a friend. You should be able to find your local one through ads in the local paper, word of mouth or even from a notice pinned up in your area. As well as a small admission fee, you may have to invest in a small foldable table - a picnic table or wall-papering trestle table is ideal - and make sure it will fit into your car before you buy it!

You can sell almost anything in a car boot sale - old furniture, second-hand clothes, books, videos. Work out how exactly how much you want to sell your items and be prepared to get up early on the day to ensure you get a good position and also get the early-bird really keen customers. You'll be surprised how many people start asking you how something is being sold for as you're still unloading it from the car! And be prepared for people to haggle over the price - it's all part of the fun and the experience.

Happy selling!