BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -- From clothing to sporting goods, buying used is the new way to shop.

Secondhand stores are seeing an increase in business in this downward economy.

They are seeing shoppers like Stephanie Hammons come through their doors. Hammons brought a bag of her old clothing to Plato's closet on Ming Avenue to trade in for a new wardrobe.

"I think it's like a treasure hunt because you never know what you're going to find. And I found some really neat things for a really good price, so I really enjoy it," said Hammons.

More and more shoppers are finding out that selling what they don't want is the new way to put extra cash in their pocket. And it's faring well for stores like Plato's Closet that sells, trades and buys new and gently used teen and adult clothing.

Julie Stewart, manager of the store, said sales are up 30 percent from last year.

"I think we are doing well because our prices are so much lower. Our prices are about 70 percent less than you would find at the mall. And we buy excellent condition clothes. It's definitely not a thrift store, it's not drop off your items and walk out. You are getting cash on the spot because you are bringing in excellent stuff," said Hammons.

It's not just secondhand clothing gaining in popularity. Retro Active Sporting Goods on District Boulevard has hit a home run with shoppers.

From golf clubs to rollerblades, you can find gear at half of what it would sell for retail.

"There's a lot of kids playing sports and parents can't afford to go out and buy their kids new stuff. So they can come here and buy used, when their kid outgrows it, they can bring it back and trade it in for the next size up, instead of having to throw it in the garage and buy a new pair of cleats, new bat or new glove," said Salyards.

Generally, items will be brought back for a fraction of their cost and resold for half of the retail price.

Each store has their own policies for what they will buy and won't buy back. So before you gather your old belongings you may want to give them a call.