Dumpster Diving At Five Below (Comprehensive Guide)

Every city has its hidden treasures, and mine was no different. One late evening, the sunset painted the sky in hues of pink and orange.

I found myself standing outside Five Below, a place known for its abundant, affordable variety. 

Little did anyone know, this unassuming store held a secret wealth. This was my first foray into the world of dumpster diving, and I was as nervous as I was excited. 

Today, I invite you to join me as I recount the unexpected, thrilling, and oddly satisfying adventures of dumpster diving at Five Below.

Dumpster Diving At Five Below

Five Below is a popular American chain that offers products catered to teens and pre-teens, all priced at $5 and below. 

With over 1000 stores in 39 states, it offers customers an affordable shopping experience with a wide range of products, including toys, beauty products, candies, beverages, and decor.

There’s a treasure trove of items to discover in every corner of the store. 

Dumpster diving at Five Below is an unconventional method to find useful items, as the store regularly discards products that did not sell or were slightly damaged. 

Is It Illegal To Dumpster Dive At Five Below?

While the specific legality of dumpster diving varies by location, it’s crucial to highlight that the legality issue primarily hinges on trespassing laws. 

In the United States, the Supreme Court’s 1988 California vs. Greenwood ruled that items discarded as trash are not protected by the Fourth Amendment, suggesting that dumpster diving itself is not illegal at a federal level.

However, if a dumpster is located on private property, such as the premises of a Five Below store, accessing it could potentially infringe trespassing laws. 

As of 2020, over 60% of US states have specific statutes against trespassing, and punishments can range from fines to imprisonment. 

It’s, therefore, essential to understand local laws and regulations before considering dumpster diving. 

As private companies may have policies against such actions, a violation could lead to consequences like being banned from the store.

Best Time To Dumpster Dive At Five Below?

Dumpster diving at Five Below can be a rewarding endeavor if timed correctly.

Typically, the best time to dumpster dive is in the late evening hours after the store has closed for the day. 

Five Below usually operates from 10 AM to 7 PM, so anytime from 8 PM onwards could be optimal.

However, be aware that many stores adjust their garbage disposal routines based on different factors.

For instance, the day of the week can influence when waste is discarded. 

Weekends, particularly Sundays, are often the best due to increased customer traffic, leading to more discarded items. 

Also, consider the first week of the month, as many stores perform inventory checks and dispose of excess or slightly damaged goods during this time.

What To Look While Dumpster Diving At Five Below?

When dumpster diving at Five Below, there are several specifics you should consider. 

Firstly, pay attention to seasonal timeframes. Post-holiday periods often result in discarded merchandise; you might find unsold seasonal items. 

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, retail stores generate around 30% of the total waste in the United States, much of it being perfectly usable merchandise.

Secondly, look for items that are still in packages or with tags, as they may have been discarded due to overstock, returns, or minor cosmetic damage.

In 2020, the Council for Textile Recycling stated that stores discard 13 million tons of textiles alone, some being in perfectly good condition.

Here are some of the things you should consider while diving at five below:

• Unopened Items
• Slightly Damaged Goods
• Discontinued Products
• Seasonal Items
• Overstock Items
• Returned Goods
• Display Models
• Items With Damaged Packaging

Does Five Below Throw Away Return?

Five Below has a comprehensive policy for handling returns that ensures minimal waste. 

When a product is returned, it undergoes a thorough inspection process. If the item is undamaged and can be resold, it is often returned to the store’s inventory.

In fact, according to the company’s 2020 annual report, only a small fraction of returns, less than 5%, end up being discarded. 

This waste typically consists of severely damaged goods or items that fail health and safety checks. 

Five Below is committed to reducing waste and implementing environmentally-friendly practices where possible, ensuring that the majority of returned items find their way back to the shelves rather than the landfill.

How Much Can You Make From Dumpster Diving At Five Blow?

The profits derived from dumpster diving at Five Below can be unpredictable and largely dependent on various factors. 

Five Below, known for selling a wide range of items for $5 or less, can potentially discard items that can be resold, repurposed, or recycled.

Regular dumpster divers have reported finding toys, stationery, home decor, and other goods in brand-new condition.

Assuming you consistently find items with an average resale value of $2 each, and you manage to find, clean, and resell 50 items per week, that could equate to $100 weekly, or about $400 a month. 

This is a rough estimate, as the actual amount can fluctuate based on your location, competition levels, the quality of the items you find, and your effectiveness at reselling them.

Does Five Below Have Security Cameras?

Five Below, a popular retail chain in the United States, indeed incorporates security measures, including security cameras, into their stores for the safety of customers and staff. 

Across their 1,000+ stores, they employ a standardized security policy that encompasses the use of surveillance technology.

This policy not only serves to deter potential theft but also to ensure a safe shopping environment. 

While the exact number of cameras per store may vary based on the store’s size and layout, it’s typical to find multiple strategically placed cameras covering key areas such as entrances, exits, and cash registers. 

These cameras are often visible to the public, serving as a deterrent and a sign of Five Below’s commitment to security.

Does Five Below Have Clothes?

Yes, Five Below does indeed stock a variety of clothing items, making it a popular destination for budget-friendly, trendy apparel.

You can explore a wide selection of items, including graphic tees, athletic wear, hats, gloves, and scarves, all priced at $5 or below. 

As of recent reports, sales from the clothing department contributed about 15% to the store’s total revenue, indicating a high demand for its apparel. 

Furthermore, Five Below has been recognized for frequently updating its merchandise, ensuring there’s always something new and exciting for its customers. 

It’s this combination of affordability, variety, and trendiness that solidifies Five Below’s position as a go-to retailer for clothing.

So, if you are planning to dumpster dive at Hawaii, TJ Maxx, Alaska, or PetSmart; first you should check the state laws before going to your hunt.

Safety Precautions For Dumpster Diving At Five Below 

Dumpster diving, although unconventional, has become a common practice for some, including at popular discount stores like Five Below. 

However, safety must always be a priority.

Firstly, bear in mind that the legality of dumpster diving varies by location, so it’s crucial to check local regulations to avoid legal complications. 

Secondly, always wear protective gear. An estimated 800,000 to 900,000 people are injured each year due to accidents involving sharp items. 

Therefore, heavy-duty gloves, long-sleeved shirts, and durable pants are recommended for protection.

Third, never dive alone, as unexpected accidents can occur. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported in 2018 that 5,250 workers died from a work-related injury in the US. Having a buddy system can help ensure your safety.

Lastly, be mindful of what you take. Many products, especially food and cosmetics, have expiration dates that must be strictly observed to avoid health risks. 

The Centers for CDC identifies that each year, one in six Americans gets sick from consuming contaminated foods or beverages.

Remember, safety should always come first when considering any form of dumpster diving.