Top 40 Unbelievable Treasures People Found On The Curb

In recent years, more people have started finding hidden gems on the sidewalks. This practice, known as “curb mining” or “stooping,” involves picking up items left on curbs for free.

It’s not just a fun way to find furniture, decor, or even electronics, but also an eco-friendly way to save things from going to waste. What one person thinks of as trash can become someone else’s new favorite find, bringing new life to old items.

As people walk through city streets, they may come across end tables, shelves, paintings, or even a vintage motorcycle left out for anyone to take. Instead of throwing items away, people in cities with limited space leave them on the sidewalk, hoping someone else will pick them up and use them.

And that’s where curb mining enthusiasts come in — excited to find unique pieces without spending money. Thanks to groups like "Curbfinds," an online community of people sharing their best sidewalk finds, curb mining has become even more popular.

Members post photos of things they pick up and sometimes show off their DIY transformations. In this community, people share their finds and encourage others to try fixing or upcycling what they pick up. Seeing these transformations inspires others to look at unwanted items differently.

People get excited about the potential to make an item beautiful or functional again — all it takes is a little creativity and effort. We've pulled together a selection of their best posts, showcasing the surprising things friendly strangers leave behind on the sidewalk.

Ready to start looking?

Pexels

"Cutest Curbfind: IKEA Doll Bed For My Cat. I Think He Approves"

Plastic_Restaurant38

"I Run Down An Old Dirt Road. Trash Is Dumped There. One Day I Stopped And Found A Box Of Money"

arbivark

According to Clark Howard, a consumer advocate, curb mining can be a great way to find valuable items that others have discarded. He emphasizes the importance of assessing the condition and potential resale value of these items before taking them home. Howard advises potential curb miners to understand local regulations about taking items from public spaces to avoid any legal complications. Additionally, he suggests documenting the finds to track their value over time, which can be beneficial for personal finance tracking.

The Impact of Social Media on Curb Mining

Social media has played a significant role in shaping the curb mining culture. Influencers often share their finds and tips, making curb mining a trendy topic. Gretchen Rubin, a happiness researcher, notes that this sharing creates a community of like-minded individuals who can inspire each other. By showcasing their treasures online, participants not only celebrate their finds but also encourage sustainable practices among their followers.

"I Had Put These In R/Thriftstorehauls A Bit Ago But Didn't Realize This Subreddit Existed. My Boss Was Getting Rid Of Some Things From His Mother's Estate And Brought A Bunch Of Stuff In With An Up For Grabs Sign In Our Conference Room. It Was Mostly Junk, Except For These Original Dalí Etchings"

Thefreshestproduce

"Got A Motorcycle For Free Today. Clean Title And Runs"

Pm_me_ur_dealbreaker

"Hand-Carved Vintage Liquor Cabinet!"

chauncyyy

The Psychology of Curb Mining

Dr. Lauren Slater, a psychologist and author, suggests that the thrill of curb mining taps into our innate desire for discovery and recycling. She notes that finding treasures can trigger a dopamine release, making the experience addictive. Slater explains that this behavior not only contributes to individual happiness but also fosters a sense of community as people share their finds and stories. This social aspect can enhance emotional well-being, especially in urban settings where interactions are often limited.

"Before And After Of A Cabinet I Found In The Trash"

ShanghaiLou

"Removed Layers Of Old Paint And Rust From This Mid-Century End Table"

ceeparx7

"Found This Airplane Rocker Down Our Street!"

brinhartman

One practical recommendation from professional organizers is to adopt a mindful approach when curb mining. Professional organizer Marie Kondo emphasizes evaluating whether an item truly sparks joy before bringing it home. This can prevent clutter and ensure that curb mining remains a positive experience. By being selective, you can create a curated collection of meaningful items that resonate with you personally, rather than accumulating things that may end up disregarded again.

"A Curbfind Dresser... With A New Bit Of Paint!"

empressche

"Curb Find Of The Century? Kitchen Aid Professional 5 Plus Stand Mixer With Attachments, And It Works!"

sfitz11

"I Don't Watch Much TV, But When I Do, It Comes From The Curb. Fully Functional Sony 4k TV. Thank You Curb Gods"

relativelyben

Sustainability and Curb Mining

Environmental experts like Dr. Terry Wahls advocate for practices like curb mining as part of a sustainable lifestyle. By rescuing items from landfills, individuals contribute to reducing waste and promoting recycling. Wahls emphasizes that every small act counts, and curb mining can significantly impact resource conservation. Dr. Wahls encourages people to share their finds on social media to inspire others to adopt eco-friendly habits.

"I Spent The Day Making Memories With My Daughter And Her Curb Find. Was Quoted Over $1000 To Repair The Broken Side And Reupholster. For The Price Of Our Time, Some Glue, Screws, Staples, And Fabric, She Now Has Something In Her Bedroom She Absolutely Loves"

PumilioTat

"1922 Sewing Machine"

dearwikipedia

"Not Exactly The Curb, But This Was Left In My Building's Disposal Room"

PortugueseCheese

Financial planners often encourage creative avenues for saving money, and curb mining fits this bill perfectly. Ramit Sethi suggests that finding free furniture or decor not only saves money but also allows individuals to invest in higher-quality items for their homes. He also notes that resale opportunities from found items can supplement income, especially if one is savvy about the market value of what they find.

"Curb Alert. Someone Posted A Curb Alert Near Me And I Saw Two Mid Century Looking Dressers In The Corner. I Am Still In Awe"

Deep_Maintenance5307

"I Whipped My Car Around So Fast. If There Wasn’t A Sign That Said “Free” I’d Have Felt Like It Was Stealing"

TacoTornado311

"Found This Bad Boy Sticking Out Of A Trashcan. Stopped To Look And The Homeowner Came Out And Gave Me A Box To Move It"

smutketeer

Community Building Through Curb Mining

Social scientists highlight the role of curb mining in community building. Research by Dr. Robert Putnam, author of 'Bowling Alone', indicates that shared experiences like curb mining can strengthen neighborhood ties. When individuals engage in this activity, they often interact with neighbors, exchanging stories and recommendations. This interaction fosters a sense of belonging and enhances community spirit, creating a network of support among participants.

"Found This Cedar Chest A Few Days Ago"

Sam5559

"Found A Bag Of Art Supplies In A Big Pile Of Junk Outside An Apartment"

TeaSipperStripper

"After Having No Table For 2 Weeks, This Lovely Vintage Find Was Amazing. The Drop Leaf Table Is Perfect For Our Small Space"

hornyformugs

Experts in waste management emphasize the importance of responsible curb mining practices. According to the EPA, ensuring that the items taken are suitable for reuse is crucial. They recommend checking items for safety and usability, particularly when it comes to electronics or furniture. This approach not only benefits the individual but also promotes a culture of conscientious consumption, which is vital for sustainable living.

"Got This Beaut For Free! Outside A Thrift Store Where They Didn’t Think They Could Sell It!"

Lamesauceapplesauce

"Some Mom Stepped On Her Last LEGO…"

MakeItHomemade

"Found This Old Trunk In My Neighborhood On Garbage Day. Excited To Have A Cool New Coffee Table/Extra Storage!"

reddit.com

The Economics of Curb Mining

Economist Ben Stein highlights how curb mining reflects broader economic trends, particularly in urban areas. He explains that as cities become more crowded and expensive, people are more inclined to discard items. This creates a unique economy of second-hand goods, where curb miners can thrive. Stein urges individuals to view curb mining as both a practical and economic activity that can lead to financial savings and community engagement.

"It’s Been 20 Years Since I Found A Curb Box This Good. All Records In Immaculate Condition. Mostly Australian Imports"

noiseinart

"Kid’s Poang IKEA Chair To Dog Throne"

greenbushgreenery

"I Ran Through Traffic When I Saw It!"

athenianmermaid

To enhance the curb mining experience, experts recommend creating a dedicated space at home for found treasures. Dr. Diane Ravitch, an education expert, suggests establishing a display area that showcases unique finds, combining aesthetics with storytelling. This not only adds charm to your living space but also encourages visitors to engage in discussions about sustainability and creativity. It can also serve as a reminder of the value in reusing what others might consider waste.

"Found This 1940 - 41 Stromberg Carlson Radio On The Side Of The Road"

Sam5559

"Cleaned Up A Curb Find For My Plants"

amason549

"A Week Ago I Was Talking About How I Wished I’d Find A Snowboard In The Trash Because I’m A Broke Beginner Who Always Has To Borrow From Friends"

essplodes

Curb Mining and Mental Health

Psychologists emphasize the mental health benefits of curb mining. Dr. Martin Seligman, founder of positive psychology, indicates that engaging in activities that bring joy can improve overall well-being. Finding treasures on the curb can lead to feelings of satisfaction and accomplishment, which are essential for mental health. Seligman encourages individuals to try curb mining as a way to boost mood and develop a more positive outlook on life.

"Today's Groundscore"

flow_n_tall

"Don’t Mind If I Do"

kittycatpuppydog

"Just Need To Find Some Cushions Now"

TriangleJaune

Community engagement experts emphasize the importance of sharing finds with friends and family to enhance social connections. Dr. Michael Thompson highlights that these shared experiences can lead to deeper relationships and foster a sense of belonging. Organizing curb mining events, where friends can explore neighborhoods together, can turn a solo activity into a communal experience, strengthening bonds and enriching social interactions.

"Leather Donghia Armchair A Buddy And I Hauled Off Of The Curb In The Middle Of The Night. Almost Perfect Condition!"

svedishgypsy

"I Found This Small Danish Credenza On My Walk To Work This Morning. Couldn’t Believe It. It Made Me Late For Work But That’s Ok. Oakland, Ca"

Chlover

"Coffee Table Rehab. About $20 In Supplies"

MLMsstealyoursoul

Educational Opportunities Through Curb Mining

Curb mining can also serve as an excellent educational opportunity for families. Dr. Linda Darling-Hammond, an education expert, suggests using these experiences to teach children about value, creativity, and sustainability. Parents can involve kids in discussions about what makes an item valuable and how to responsibly recycle. This hands-on learning can instill lifelong values of resourcefulness and environmental stewardship in children, preparing them for a sustainable future.

"Update On My Hot Roasted Nuts Cart Curbfind"

robjp4453

"Found A Washer/Dryer Set (Knocked On Door To Make Sure They Worked) Days After Ours Went Out. So Happy!"

Justme-again

"This Luxury Dog Crate Was Being Thrown Out By Someone In My Building Who Couldn’t Keep Their Puppy"

GKrollin

To further improve the curb mining experience, experts recommend setting boundaries on what to take. Dr. Madeline Levine suggests creating a list of criteria before embarking on a curb mining adventure. This can include specific item types, condition, and potential uses. By doing this, individuals can avoid the pitfalls of accumulating excess clutter while still enjoying the thrill of the hunt.

"China Cabinet - From Buy Nothing Curb Alert"

krissyface

"Brand New Christmas Ornaments"

Ativan2

Curb mining changes how people see value. While it’s easy to think “new is better,” curbside hunting shows that old, discarded items can be just as valuable. Something left on the sidewalk might look like trash to some, but to a curb miner, it’s a hidden treasure waiting for a new purpose.

Rather than always buying new, curb miners find ways to reuse and make things last. They help reduce waste, proving that worn or imperfect items can still be helpful and have charm. Picking up something from the curb gives it a second life and shows the power of resourcefulness.

Whether you’re a fan of curb mining or just curious, there’s a thrill in finding great things for free. So next time you’re out, look at what’s around. You never know what hidden gems you might discover.

Analysis & Recommendations

Curb mining is more than just a hunt for discarded treasures; it has profound social, economic, and environmental implications. Experts highlight its ability to foster community ties, promote sustainability, and enhance individual well-being. As more people engage in this practice, the importance of responsible and mindful approaches cannot be overstated. By adopting expert recommendations, such as setting clear criteria for finds and sharing experiences, individuals can optimize their curb mining adventures. Ultimately, it’s about transforming what others consider waste into cherished treasures that reflect creativity and resourcefulness.