How to Dumpster Dive

Dumpster diving is in the time-honored tradition of getting something for nothing. After all, one man's trash is another man's treasure. Learn here how to dive into a dumpster--and reap the treasures therein.

Things You'll Need

• Heavy gloves
• Flashlight

Instructions

1. Dress for success. Wear solid shoes and clothing that you won't mind getting torn. A decent pair of heavy or leather work gloves will protect your hands from broken glass or rust.

2. Get by with a little help from your friends. A lookout helps when you're diving, letting you know when to run or when the trash collectors are arriving.

3. Be discreet. Dumpster diving isn't exactly illegal, but it is frowned upon by the authorities and often by the actual "owners" of the trash you're digging through.

4. Get the timing right. After work hours are over or late at night are the best times to go dumpster diving because there are fewer people around.

5. Leave the site clean. Tidy up after yourself. That way there's less of a chance you'll find razor wire or locks on the dumpsters the next time you go for a dive.

6. Scout the area. Figure out which dumpsters belong to which establishment. Make plans according to what sorts of things you hope to find. If you're looking for furniture, for example, you may need a vehicle to lug it home.

Tips & Warnings

• A flashlight is a good thing for diving, but it should have a low or controlled beam. Headlamps are even better for dumpster diving since they leave your hands free.

• Technically, the trash is the possession of the owner of the dumpster. Check out the laws on dumpster diving in your town before you dive.

• Avoid diving in trash compactors. No trash is worth serious injury.