Online linen and bedding store

Households furnishing a new home, people upgrading their bedrooms and bathrooms, and gift buyers for weddings and housewarmings.

You buy wholesale or from a maker and sell at retail price. Bundles such as a sheet set plus pillowcases and gift sets raise the average order value.

• Choosing quality products and spotting a style niche
• Basic online store setup and product photos
• Customer service and handling returns

• Most states require a seller's permit (sales tax registration) before you make taxable sales. Check with your state's department of revenue, including rules for sales to other states (economic nexus)
• A general business license is not required everywhere for an online store, so check with your city or county
• Check general liability and product liability insurance options
• Textile labeling rules apply to fiber content, country of origin and care instructions, so check the FTC requirements if you make or relabel products
• Returns on bedding and towels can be costly, so write a clear returns policy
• Running from home may need a home occupation permit or lease/HOA approval, so check locally

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how much stock you buy, your store setup and your product photography. These are estimates, and a small curated range can help keep early costs manageable.

Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on your range, pricing, marketing and return rates. This is an estimate of revenue, not profit, so factor in product costs, shipping and returns.

Check with your state about a seller's permit and sales tax, including sales to other states. Also check FTC textile labeling requirements, local business license and home occupation rules, insurance options, and write a clear returns policy.