Start an online children's clothing and toy shop

Parents, grandparents and gift buyers looking for items they can't easily find in big chain stores.

You buy wholesale or make products and sell at a markup. Income comes from item sales, gift sets and repeat customers.

• Choosing products parents want
• Basic website or marketplace setup
• Photography and writing product descriptions
• Packing and shipping orders

• Children's products must meet US safety rules (CPSIA), including testing and labeling for many items. Check the Consumer Product Safety Commission website
• Register for a state seller's permit and check how sales tax applies to online sales in your state
• Returns on clothing sizes and stock you can't sell, so start with small orders
• Check HOA or lease rules if you store stock at home

Startup costs are typically around $500 to $5,000, depending on your niche, how much stock you order and whether you use your own website or a marketplace store. Starting with small orders can limit the risk of unsold stock.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $300 to $5,000, depending on your niche, product range and the hours you put in. Returns on clothing sizes and unsold stock can affect how much you actually keep.

Check that your products meet US safety rules (CPSIA), including testing and labeling for many items, on the Consumer Product Safety Commission website. Also register for a state seller's permit and check how sales tax applies to online sales in your state.