Dumpster Diving Discussion

queenofthehivemomof5 · 07-08-2006, 06:38:58 AM

Dumpster Diving and the tools needed

Dumpster Diving - What does that mean??

The definition for Dumpster Diving is to pretty much riffle through the trash looking for goodies.:)

In the couponing world we are usually referring to looking though recycling bins looking for Sunday newspapers and their coupon inserts. As one of the main keys to stockpile couponing is to obtain multiple coupons!.

What tools should I carry to successfully dumpster dive?

Here is what is included in my dumpster diving tool kit:

1. Step stool:

If you are short you may need one. I am not short at 6 ft tall but I still use a step stool to give me added reach.

2. Something to help you grab your newspapers:
Such as...

A short handled 3-pronged garden cultivator (either long or short handled... I prefer the long handled version myself)

3. To help you collect your newspapers it is a good idea to have on hand a way to corral the newspapers... I use an old milk crate, but you can also use a cardboard box, or even some twine.

4. Not necessities but also nice to have on hand:

Something for your hands,.baby wipes as handling newspaper can be quite messy!

During the summer those metal recycling bins can get QUITE hot so I like to include an old towel to toss over the edge of the bin to prevent "recycling bin burns"

Last but not least...if your children don't mind...toss a kid in the dumpster! Throw them in and let them help you get to those papers that are just out of reach. Some kids find it fun and exhilarating (my 8 year old begs to be thrown in the bin) while other kids find it terrifying (my BF's DD thinks you are throwing her away LOL)

You may also want to add these to your kit.

Gloves (like you all need a picture LOL)

Head Lamp

Grabby thingy (I used to have one when I was PG with the twins but using it Dumpster diving it broke..was ok for grabbing small amounts but not a lot all at once)

All in all have fun dumpster diving. Don't forget to be carefull and watch for items that could harm you. There are many treasures to be had in those dumpsters but its not worth it if you are hurt.

sbp · 07-09-2006, 03:05:13 AM

I don't have a picture of my grabby thing, but it's called a Gripcert. It's got a little hooky thing at the end that you can use to pull lightweight items closer to within reach. For heavier items that are out of reach, I use a golf club. (The golf club is much stronger and sturdier for when I'm trying to pull a tied up stack of papers closer!)

lesselly · 07-18-2006, 03:12:57 PM

I love the kid idea!! That's great!

3swimmersmom · 07-18-2006, 05:14:21 PM

This is great advise! "I'm loving it!"

texgirl · 07-19-2006, 07:59:40 PM

rofl! That just cracked me up. I have never dumpster dived, although I have asked premission from our local recycle and was told no. But the thought of my neighbors seeing me downtown at a dumpster on a step stool wearing a head lamp and a pair of gloves, carrying a rake and throwing my kids in the dumpster is just too funny! What could you possibly say in your defense?

queenofthehivemomof5 · 07-19-2006, 09:29:15 PM

"Im hunting for coupons"

knucklemama · 07-23-2006, 06:06:29 AM

Have any of you ever looked in post office trash cans?

queenofthehivemomof5 · 07-23-2006, 06:10:27 AM

Originally Posted by knucklemama

Have any of you ever looked in post office trash cans?

I think its illegal to rummage through the trash at post offices. If unsure I would advise that you ask first and see if its OK or not.

knucklemama · 08-22-2006, 12:38:04 AM

thanks. i don't want to get into trouble.

MOM2SNOX · 08-22-2006, 01:30:47 AM

ROFL! How hilarious!! The towel over the edge was a great touch too!

As for the post office.... I know I've seen people scour through the blue bins in search of throw away AOL CD's.... and this was at the suggestion of a postal teller! So, I don't see why it would be a problem to look for other items too! ?? Anyone know exactly what the law is regarding post office debris?