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 two of a three-part series.
What else should potential dumpster divers know?
To start dumpster diving is just to drive behind a shopping center and take a peek. Just look at what is on the top of a dumpster. Bookstores will usually always have books and magazines in them, without covers. Still great to read!
Dollar stores usually have a plethora of things. They turn inventory fairly quickly and have limited storage space. Need envelopes? Keep an eye on the local Hallmark store. Sometimes odd things show up in odd dumpsters. A CD player can sometimes be found in a dumpster behind a clothing store. You just never know.
For residential dives, visit an apartment complex at the end of the month. Most of the time there will be things sitting outside of the dumpster. Pots and pan, furniture, huge bags of clothes, you name it. Heck, I’ve even found cases of beer at the end of the month in apartment complexes. Who throws away beer? (Granted, it wasn’t good beer but beer nonetheless.)
Check the items you haul out as well. Many stores have taken to destroying the things they toss to prevent returns. Some stores are courteous and just mark the items so they are still useable but not returnable. Others destroy perfectly good things. You can always suggest to the store manager that they may want to donate these items instead of destroying them. You won’t get the item, but at least it won’t be in a landfill.
What was your best find?
there are so many. A CD player. Cases of Christmas cards. Oh..about 200 small bottles of Tide. Finding laundry detergent is always a thrill!
What was your worst find?
I’ve been lucky, I’ve never found anything “bad.” I’ve found a lot of candy over the years though, and my waist thinks that is very bad!
Do you have a question for siageah? Leave a comment!
Related Articles:
Interview with A Dumpster Diver (1)
Interview with A Dumpster Diver (3)