Dumpster Diving Tip: WHERE to Dumpster Dive?

First, we need to establish where not to go: big box stores like w.alma.rt, and ta.rget are typically not fruitful diving wise, as these chain stores use trash compactors... which are inaccessible. I’d say 95% of the time, trash compactors are impossible to rummage through, and even then, everything is squished and the trash is difficult to look through. So in general, avoid trash compactors.

Retailers, however, usually do daily culls, their workers go through and throw out “damaged”, “expired”, or “ugly” items. Culls can also include throwing out excess stock to make room for incoming shipments, among other reasons. So in general, stores throw out what they sell. And it’s a good idea to check dumpsters daily, so you don’t miss out on anything (there’s a chance rain can damage loot, or a dump truck could take your potential haul)

For non-food items:

• Makeup stores
• Home improvement stores
• Thrift stores
• Furniture stores
• Pet stores

Stores that carry loot and food:

• Discount stores (o.llies, big l.ots)
• Dollar stores
• Pharmacies
• Gas stations

Food items:

• Bakeries
• Donut shops
• Sandwich places
• Cafes (if they get their food pre-made like st.ar b.u.cks)
• Pizza places (takeout places are usually the least messiest)
• Small grocery stores (trader j.oe.s & al.di)
• Food factories

While restaurants, delis, and cafes do waste large amounts of food, I don’t recommend eating warm/pre-made food from dumpsters. The food is easily already in the Time-Temperature Danger Zone.... So unless you can start a food rescue directly with a food place to avoid the dumpster? (which is great if you can do it) I don’t recommend eating half eaten/warm food.

For reference, the hauls I usually come across are

1. Shelf stable
2. Still in its package, and/or
3. Clean!

some examples below

Let me know if y’all have any questions. Be safe! Go dumpster diving! ♻️