Treasure Hunting: What to Look for if you go Dumpster Diving

Dumpster Diving

If you go dumpster diving you may find items that are very valuable. With the right approach, you can find some hidden gems in the trash. If you are game, here are some things to look for to have a successful and safe treasure hunting experience.

Pick a Good Location

You don't want to go through dumpsters in the rough parts of the town where you live.

Good places to go dumpster diving are in college towns, near apartment complexes, and behind retail stores. These places are more likely to have a higher volume of trash, which increases the chances of finding valuable items.

But there's another thing you need to know. In the city where I live, there is a section known as Mountain Brook. And Yes, Mountain Brook, Alabama is considered a rich place. Per capita, it is the richest place in the country, including Beverly Hills. Just think: People living there could purchase a brand new Mac Computer, use it one time, not like it and just throw it in the dumpster. They'll just buy another computer.

What a treasure find! And this is not unusual. Places like Mountain Brook are in every city. They are the best places to go dumpster diving.

Time it Right

Timing is everything when it comes to dumpster diving. The best time to go is usually after business hours or early in the morning when the trash has just been collected. This way, you'll have a higher chance of finding items that have been recently discarded and not ruined by weather or other trash.

Use Caution

Before you start diving into dumpsters, it's essential to take precautions for your safety. Wear gloves, closed-toe shoes, and long sleeves to protect yourself from any sharp or hazardous items. It's also a good idea to bring a flashlight, as dumpsters can be dark and hard to see into. Be mindful of your surroundings, and if you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, it's best to move on to another location.

And by the way, take something like a baseball bat with you. You may get a chance to swat a few rats. No one ever said dumpser diving was easy, but it sure is worth it!

Look for the Right Types of Trash

The key to successful dumpster diving is knowing what to look for. Some items are more likely to be thrown away than others, and these are the things you should keep an eye out for. Electronics, furniture, books, and clothing are some of the most commonly discarded items that can still be useful. Look for items that are in good condition, not broken or damaged, and that you can easily clean or repair.

Also look for some items that you can sell on eBay, Amazon or Craigslist. Why not make money doing it? After all, it's all profit. People who buy don't care where the items come from.

Check for Local Laws and Regulations

While dumpster diving is not illegal in most places, you should still check local laws and regulations before going out on a hunt. Some cities have ordinances against picking through trash, and you don't want to get into any trouble. It's also important to respect private property and only dive into dumpsters that are in public areas.

Don't Take Everything

It's easy to get carried away and want to take everything you find, but be selective. Not everything you find will be useful or valuable, and you don't want to end up with a bunch of junk that you'll have to dispose of later. Stick to items that you genuinely need, can repurpose, or sell, and leave the rest for someone else.

Conclusion

Dumpster diving can be a fun and rewarding activity if done with caution and the right mindset. It's not about digging through trash, but rather finding hidden treasures that others have discarded. Remember to be respectful, safe, and selective in your search, and you may just come across some valuable items that you never thought you'd find in the trash. Happy hunting!

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