Don't Sell Your Stuff, Rent It

We all have stuff around the house that we don't use, right? But sometimes it's hard to part with either because you think there's a chance, no matter how slim, that you'll use it again. Meanwhile, it's taking up space and just not earning it's keep.



Well it's time to dust off that lazy mitre saw, oil that bicycle chain and put grandma's china to work. Yep, your stuff could earn you money!


Borrowing the principal of Craigslist, Zilok lets you list and rent your stuff online. It's an that hasn't quite caught on. Zilok launched in 2007 and operates in the United States, France, Belgium, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands. There is still just slim coverage. A search for items available in the Golden area were mostly baby items, some power tools, and camera equipment.


Zilok's promotion has been picking up. They've gained the attention of PC Magazine and other large publications. The Huffington Post called Zilok"a green solution to overconsumption and the sagging economy."


Is Zilok one of those simple genius ideas? Of course anyone can go to the local rental company and find what they want. And there is the risk having your personal property damaged or not returned. But, still it seems like a great idea except that it's not craigslist.


Craiglist started as a hobby by Craig Newmark in early 1995. It was a simple email list of SF events. Zilok was created to be a business and doesn't have the grassroots, viral momentum. Still the idea that those excess gadgets around your home could make money is enticing. So I gotta wish the best to Zilok (weird name though, sounds like something from Battlestar Galactica--or whatever space fantasy).