Dumpster diving is generally frowned upon in polite society, even in places where it’s technically legal. If there are fences, locks or “No Trespassing” signs on the premises, consider yourself warned. It may be wise to stay away from locations under tight scrutiny.
Look up the trash pickup times in your city so you can have a chance to go through a promising receptacle before it’s emptied. [2] X Research source Plan your runs for the early morning or evening hours when most people are occupied. [3] X Research source
If you’re looking for a specific type of find, the smartest place to look is at the source. For example, you’ll have a much better chance stumbling upon unused beauty products behind a cosmetics boutique, or turning up small electronics at an office supply store. [4] X Research source Keep an eye out for old, unwanted furniture and appliances near dumpsters in residential areas.
Dumpster diving can be messy work. It may not be the best pastime for the faint of heart or those with weak stomachs.
Wear pants and tops with long sleeves to minimize your exposure to unsanitary messes. If you’re going to actually enter the dumpster, wear sturdy fabrics like denim, nylon or leather and keep as much of your body covered as possible. Remove any accessories you don’t want to lose before you get inside.
A durable canvas laundry bag can make a great way to transport your finds back home. Use a long pole to poke around in the trash until something catches your attention. If you’re careful enough, there may be no need to get inside the receptacle at all. Flashlights may also be necessary during the daytime if the dumpster is especially deep or situated in the shade.
Organize your finds into a few separate piles: things you can use, things other people might be able to use and things you can sell. [7] X Research source If you don’t find anything worth keeping, cut your losses and move on to the next spot.
Spend as little time in the area as you can. Get in, get the goods and get out. Be ready to abandon your hunt at a moment’s notice.
Giving away your presence makes you more likely to be caught red-handed on future visits. The goal is to economize, not to vandalize. Don’t give dumpster diving a bad name.
A good general rule is to start your search at a place that sells the type of food you’re looking for. Dumpster diving at popular stores and restaurants is best left for the nighttime hours when you’re less likely to be noticed. [11] X Research source
Avoid anything that’s not sealed or has been previously opened. Canned and dried goods (such as uncooked rice, oats and pasta) usually stay good for several months after their listed expiration date. [13] X Research source
Cook as much of what you bring back as you can. This will kill off the harmful bacteria that begins to reproduce when food spoils and may also level out stale and unpleasant flavors. [15] X Trustworthy Source FoodSafety. gov Online portal combining food safety information from the U. S. Food and Drug Administration, the Food Safety and Inspection Service, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Go to source Most types of produce can be canned, pickled or turned into jams or jellies, effectively extending their lifespan.
If you do decide to take it with you anyway, double-check it for signs of mold or tampering first, and be aware of the risk you’re taking to your health. Never consume frozen or refrigerated items after they’ve thawed to room temperature. This could make you extremely sick. [17] X Research source
Prop open the lid of the dumpster or have a friend hold it for you so you can work unimpeded. [18] X Research source
If the dumpster you’re attempting to search is inhabited by critters, the safest option is to just move on to the next location. Scavenger rodents are known for carrying diseases that can prove fatal to humans if contracted. Keep your distance at all costs.
Prolonged or unsafe exposure to garbage can lead to a host of health concerns. [19] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Contrary to popular belief, a solid personal hygiene regimen is very important for dumpster divers—arguably even more important than for normal people.
Spot clean electronics with a washcloth and rubbing alcohol or mild liquid detergent. Food items should receive special attention, as it can be extremely unsafe to eat anything that’s spoiled or contaminated. [21] X Research source
