Want to know all about what it is like to be a dumpster diver? Here is your chance! I interviewed Families.com family member siageah to get the scoop. This is part three of a three-part series.
Do you have any practical tips for anyone new to dumpster diving?
Always leave a dumpster or a pile of trash better than you found it. There is nothing worse than a diver who cuts open bags and throws trash everywhere. You should leave it neater than you found it. You can go through bags, but replace the items you do not want. If you see trash outside of a dumpster, put it in. If there is cardboard in the regular trash, move it to the cardboard dumpster. Be considerate and courteous!
Diving is can be very hit or miss. Your first couple of times out will probably be complete duds. You need to know what stores/complexes etc tend to throw out better things and when they do it. Apartment complexes are generally goldmines at the end of the month when move outs occur. Residential areas can have “big trash” days when people toss all sorts of things. Learn these days. Stores can toss things on a schedule. Keep going and figure it out.
Never go into a trash compactor. Ever. For any reason.
Diving for food can be tough. Use good judgment. Anything perishable that isn’t frozen solid is a no go. Produce can be dived successfully if you use common sense. Peel off leaves, pick out the bad apples, wash everything carefully. Packaged food look for expiration dates and that the packaging is in good shape. Smell it, make sure no chemicals have been spilled on it.
Some items you may not be able to use but can be donated. Think of dumpster diving as Urban Recycling and find a way to keep it out of the landfill. You may not want to use that box of tiles, but maybe Habitat for Humanity will.
If you live in a warm climate (or in the summer in the northern areas) be careful of dumpsters in the heat. They can get VERY hot and you can get burned.
If you actually crawl into a dumpster, make sure you can get out. If you are 4’11” and crawl into a tall dumpster that is nearly empty, you want to take a ladder in with you.
Always look around a dumpster and get a feel for an area. If you are uncomfortable for any reason, leave.
Obviously, you should know the risks. There is always a risk with things like this of getting cut or scratched. Be careful!
Dumpster diving can be a lot of fun! Be prepared to be hooked after your first find!
Is there anything else you wish I would have asked but haven’t?
Dumpster diving can done to whatever degree you feel comfortable. Anything from picking up a plastic wagon from the curb, to getting coupons from a recycling bin, to filling your freezer with meats and veggies!
Also never dive a bank or post office unless you really enjoy spending time with the police.
Do you have a question for siageah? Leave a comment!
Related Articles:
Interview with A Dumpster Diver (1)
Interview with A Dumpster Diver (2)