Riftraffing

Riftraffing is a term used to describe the act of collecting or scavenging for discarded items, often from public trash receptacles, dumpsters, or abandoned properties. This practice can range from finding useful materials for personal use or resale to simply exploring for interesting objects. The motivation behind riftraffing varies; some individuals engage in it out of necessity, seeking items they cannot afford to purchase, while others do so as a hobby, driven by a desire for unique finds or an interest in sustainable consumption.

The legality and social perception of riftraffing can differ significantly. In many areas, entering private property to access dumpsters or bins is considered trespassing. Publicly accessible trash is generally considered abandoned, but local ordinances may still exist regarding scavenging. Socially, riftraffing can be viewed negatively, associated with poverty or a lack of sanitation, while others see it as a form of resourcefulness and a way to reduce waste by giving items a second life. This practice is closely related to dumpster diving, though "riftraffing" can encompass a broader range of scavenging locations. Participants often develop skills in identifying valuable items amidst refuse and understand the best times and places to find them.