Dumpster diving for coupons is definitely not a new concept, but thanks to TLC’s Extreme Couponing, the practice has recently been thrust into the spotlight. While many will exclaim, “Eewww!” over such a crazy pastime, these giant metal treasure chests contain hundreds – if not thousands – of dollars worth of awesome coupons!
If you’re ready to take a giant leap (or tumble over the side) into the wild world of dumpster diving, here are some tips to help get you started:
Necessary Equipment
- Step Stool: Unless you’re over 7 feet tall, you’ll want to be sure to bring a step stool or an old milk crate to help get you in – and most importantly, OUT – of the dumpster.
- Grabbing Tool: Preferably not your son’s toy one ( trust me on this. Ahem) for those hard to reach places. A sharp pole for “picking” works well, as does a 3-prong garden cultivating tool.
- Gloves: Although most recycle bins are fairly clean, digging through newsprint leaves you prone to blackened fingers and paper cuts. (Ouch)
- Lysol Wipes/Hand Sanitizer: Because you never know… 😉
- Box or plastic tub with a lid to keep your treasure – err…coupons in.
- Ponytail Holder: Dumpster diving is hard work! Plus, those bins can get pretty toasty inside during the summer months! A water bottle might be a good idea as well.
Tips – Both Legal & Fun
- Legal Advice: While most cities consider recycle bins and “trash” public domain, there are some places that highly frown upon such frugal exploits. Also, recycle bins located behind businesses or apartment complexes are generally off limits. Always check with your local police department, business or apartment manager first, just to be sure! (Remember: handcuffs make poor fashion accessories!)
- Kids + Dumpsters = FREE Fun: Chances are you have at least one child in your family who would LOVE to go diving for buried treasure! Give your little ones a toss and watch them smile if you have an open bin . Consider offering a prize to the best coupon hunter, or treating the group to a fun snack afterwards (with one of your coupons, of course)! 😉
Confession time! Do you dumpster dive for coupons?
About Karrie
Food is my love language. But so is saving money. So I like to combine the two a lot and make thrifty make ahead and freeze meals to save time. Because life is busy, and freezer meals can come to the rescue for all of us. And yes, they actually CAN taste good. Read more...
Comments & Reviews
kayla says
YES!! YES!! YES I DO!! I couldnt believe it at first when peeking into the recycling bin but now im looking everywhere and have TONS of coupons!! Im a huge couponer so it makes me 😀
Josh says
I have been a dumpster diver for years. People will question you and make fun of you. I have never dove for coupons but I have for computers, building supplies and other assorted items. I usually focus on the one at my work (some times this means saving from being actually thrown in the garbage for example I worked at tim hortons and always saved a garbage bag of donuts for myself and roomies at the end of the night and my current job I have built a shed and a chicken coop out of creating from my work.)
kristina says
hi there!! it has saved me so much money to dumpster dive. u even find brand new items of brand name clothing and such. i do take. even magazines in new condition such as glamour elle.. coupons is what i love!n shipping supplies.
i did get scolded by a man who took my license plate pic n stated he is not just an attorney but district attorney! n pretty much accussed me of identity theft. WOW! i said no way! i am a single mother and my son is 7 and is in the car. Well he said he is checking my plates n i dont know what power he has to do what next..yikes, i feel like a criminal now.
andrea says
sorry: and DON”T have No Trespassing Signs, then it is legal