“Turn your garden and kitchen waste into nutrient-rich soil fertilizer”
Compost bin is the effective and easy way to make compost as it regulates moisture, bacteria, oxygen and temperature to break down the ingredients much faster.
These bins come in various shapes and sizes and choose the best one based on your space availability and daily amount of organic waste.
We recommend you consider the following factors before purchasing a compost bin.
1. Capacity – There are three sizes/capacities available for the compost bins – small, medium, and bigger. Each size has its pros and cons.
- The capacity of smaller bins will be from 1 – 10 gallons, which means you have to empty them more frequently. It is suitable to place in kitchens.
- Medium bins will run from 11 – 30 gallons, suits for both indoors and outdoors.
- Larger/bigger bins come with a capacity of 30+ gallons, which suits to maintain a large amount of yard debris, yet require a lot of time and effort to make compost. Suits mostly for outdoors.
2. Stationary (or) Tumbling
These are two main types of compost bins. Stationary bins are larger that can store a lot of yard wastes, yet need to turn with a shovel or pitchfork every time. Tumbling composters are sealed containers having a handle and can be rotated easily to mix material. So, choose it as per your requirement.
3. Shape
Generally, compost bins are square, cylindrical, rectangular or pyramid-shaped. Determine your bin shape on the style of composter you want to buy and check what fits perfectly in your yard before making its purchase.
Keep reading to know about the detailed “Buying Guide” and also check out our list of best compost bins to pick your best one, as per your requirement.
Best Compost Bins 2023
Also check –
Top 15 Compost Bins 2023: Reviews
1. FCMP Outdoor IM4000 Dual Chamber Tumbling Composter
Next on our list is FCMP Outdoor’s IM4000 tumbling composter. FCMP Outdoor manufactures a wide range of premium quality compost bins at affordable prices. The brand provides both stock and custom programs for its outdoor items.
FCMP Outdoor’s composter features two chambers that allows you to store fresh scraps in one chamber easily while you use the other one. The two chambers will provide you with an uninterrupted flow of fresh, healthy compost. The combined capacity of the chambers is 37 gallons that ensures sufficient compost is always available.
This composter is easy to use with the help of large openings and a removable door using which you can conveniently add scraps and remove finished compost. Besides, the deep fins help you to hold the bin conveniently. When it comes to mixing the compost pile, you just have to lock the door and turn the composter 5 to 6 times every 2 to 3 days. You will get rich compost in less than 2 weeks under hot sunny conditions.
Best Features
- 37 gallons capacity
- Tumbling design for mixing compost pile
- Adjustable air vents for aeration
- UV inhibited 100% post-consumer recycled polypropylene
- Durable galvanized steel frame construction
Components
- Compost bin
- User manual
- Warranty card
2. Vivosun Tumbling Rotating Compost Bin
Vivosun is a global seller of indoor gardening and hydroponic products. The company has over 200 products in its portfolio including bulbs, lamps, reflectors, ballasts, filters, among many other products.
Vivosun’s compost bin comes with a total capacity of 43 gallons that is divided between 2 chambers. While one side cooks, you can add fresh materials to the other, thus creating a continuous flow of nutrient-rich and fresh compost for your backyard. Thanks to the tumbling design, you do not have to use your hands to mix the pile. You can mix the pile by filling the bin with garden refuse and scraps and rotating it every couple days.
The compost bin features a sturdy and durable construction with galvanized steel and high-quality PP plastic. It is resistant against corrosion and degradation, thus ensuring a long life. The bin has adjustable air vents and deep fins to allow better air circulation and helps in faster decomposition. There are 4 durable ABS plastic claws that allow you to dig and plant the bin conveniently.
Best Features
- 43 gallons capacity
- Tumbling design for mixing compost pile
- Adjustable air vents for aeration
- Rotating design
- Made of galvanized steel and high-quality PP plastic
Components
- Compost bin
- User manual
- Warranty card
3. Miracle-Gro Dual Chamber Compost Bin
Miracle-Gro is a garden products brand that is dedicated to helping people grow plants organically and manage their gardens efficiently.
This is a heavy-duty compost bin that features two chambers for providing a continuous flow of rich and fresh composite. The chambers have internal mixing bars that speed up the decomposition process. You get fertile and rich compost within 4 to 6 weeks. As the capacity of this compost bin is only 18.5 gallons, it is ideally suited for small backyards and gardens.
While most compost bins have to be turned to mix the pile, this bin requires you only to turn the handle 5 to 6 times every few days. This is an efficient and effortless way to get fresh compost. Besides, the compost bin features an efficient aeration system that facilitates faster decomposition. Along with the compost bin, you get two latex-free gardening gloves for your gardening tasks.
Best Features
- 18.5 gallons capacity
- Internal mixing bars for pile mixing
- Efficient aeration system
- Made of alloy steel
Components
- Compost bin
- User manual
- Warranty card
4. Squeeze Master Large Compost Tumbler Bin
Squeeze Master is a popular brand that develops and sells composting materials, wine-making tools, gardening tools, and compost trash bags.
With a capacity of 43 gallons divided between two chambers, you will get fresh and fertile compost round the clock. Thanks to the tumbling design, you only have to rotate the bin slightly to mix the manure without the need for digging, turning, or mixing the pile using your hands. You have to open the sliding door to fill the bin with scraps and rotate it 6 to 7 times every few days to get fertile compost.
The compost bin is made of modified PP that has improved cold resistance. It features a steel frame that makes it very sturdy and increases its lifespan. The compost bin is BPA-free and has a maximum load bearing capacity of 352 lbs. It comes with air holes that provide better air flow circulation for effective and faster composting.
Best Features
- 43 gallons capacity
- Modified PP for cold resistance
- Durable steel frame construction
- Load bearing capacity of 352 lbs
- Easy to use and rotate
Components
- Compost bin
- User manual
- Warranty card
5. FCMP Outdoor RM4000 Tumbling Roto Composter
We have yet another compost bin from FCMP Outdoor. It is a popular brand that manufactures and designs a wide range of products that are perfect for outdoor applications.
FCMP’s outdoor composter comes with a capacity of 37 gallons that holds sufficient compost for large to medium-sized gardens and backyards. With the help of the built-in handholds, you can easily turn the bin for mixing the pile. As this compost bin comes as a single piece, it is easy to assemble it. And with the proper ingredients and right amount of sunlight, you can get fresh compost within 2 weeks.
Even if you are a beginner, you can easily use this bin with the help of the large opening and the removable door to add scraps and clippings or remove the compost. The compost bin features a durable construction with BPA free UV inhibited recycled polyethylene that offers resistance against sunlight. Furthermore, the frame is made of galvanized steel that is resistant against corrosion. There are aeration holes that allow air circulation to break the clumps and help in faster decomposition.
Best Features
- 37 gallons capacity
- Easy to use and mix the pile
- Ergonomically designed handholds
- BPA free UV inhibited recycled polyethylene
- Durable construction with galvanized steel frame
Components
- Compost bin
- User manual
- Warranty card
6. Redmon Since 1883 8000 Compost Bin
Redmon is one of the oldest garden tools brands that has been developing innovative solutions to solve your gardening challenges. The brand has been operational since 1883 and has helped millions of gardeners with a wide range of gardening tools and accessories.
This is another single piece compost bin that has a large capacity of 65 gallons. With this capacity, you can get fresh and fertile compost for a long time without the need to refill it again with new scrapings. Redmon’s compost bin features four access doors and a top snap on lid using which you can conveniently remove the finished compost. The access doors measure 13 inches width x 8 inches height.
The compost bin is designed in a trapezoid shape and weighs 15 pounds. The compost bin is easy to assemble without the necessity of using any tools. There is an instruction manual that provides you in-depth information on assembling this bin. The compost bin features a heavy duty construction and is made of UV stabilized materials that is resistant against harsh weather conditions.
Best Features
- Large 65 gallons capacity
- Four access doors
- Convenient snap on lid
- Durable and weather resistant
- Easy to assemble
Components
- Compost bin
- User manual
- Warranty card
7. Algreen Soil Saver Classic Compost Bin
Algreen is a leading manufacturer of home and garden products. The Canadian brand designs and produces a wide range of gardening products including planters, rain barrels, distinctive fountains, and composters.
Algreen’s compost bin offers you a large capacity of 94 gallons that provides you a continuous flow of fertile compost within 6 to 8 weeks from food scraps and garden waste. One of the main advantages of this compost bin is that it helps you save up to 30% of wastes. In other words, you can create more compost from less household waste. Besides, this also allows you to save money on curbside pickup costs.
The compost is made of BPA-free and 100% recycled environmentally-friendly materials. The thick walls help insulate heat that allows the microbes to decompose the pile and create nutrient-rich fertile compost for your backyard. There is a self-watering lid that keeps animals away while the holes provide air circulation. With the large opening and two sliding doors, it is easy to remove the finished compost from the bin. Algreen offers a 20 years warranty on all its products including this compost bin from the date of purchase.
Best Features
- Large 94 gallons capacity
- 100% recycled environmentally-friendly materials
- Saves household wastes by up to 30%
- Self watering lid with aeration openings
- 20 years manufacturer warranty
Components
- Compost bin
- User manual
- Warranty card
8. Utopia Kitchen Countertop Compost Bin
Utopia Kitchen is an American brand that manufactures and sells a wide range of kitchen products to help you keep your kitchen clean and odourless. The brand is regarded highly for reducing waste and manufacturing products using reusable materials.
This is a small and compact compost bin with a small capacity of 1.3 gallons. Although not ideal for large backyards, this compost bin is portable and would accommodate enough compost for small gardens. The other best feature of this compost bin is that it comes with a charcoal filter. Even if you allow scraps to build up for a week without cleaning, the charcoal filter traps the odour.
The compost bin is made of high quality 201 stainless steel and features a stylish and sleek design. The stainless steel is durable and ensures the longevity of the bin. The material is also easily washable and you can use warm soapy water to clean the bin. For cleaning the charcoal filter, you have to dip it in a warm soapy solution and then rinse with water.
Best Features
- 1.3 gallons capacity
- Small, lightweight and portable
- Odour-free bin
- Made of 201 stainless steel
- Easy to clean
Components
- Compost bin
- User manual
- Warranty card
9. Epica Stainless Steel Compost Bin
Epica is an Italian brand that predominantly manufactures and sells leather journals and photo albums known for their aesthetic beauty. Some of the lesser known products of the brand include compost bins and other lifestyle products.
This is another portable compost bin with a capacity of 1 gallon. The bin weighs only 0.01 ounces and measures 10.71 x 8.03 x 7.87 inches. So, you can easily carry it and place it anywhere you want. Furthermore, it comes with a handle using which you can conveniently hold it. The compost bin features an airtight lid and charcoal filter for odour control.
The compost bin is made of stainless steel and molded into a single piece that makes it durable and resistant against scratches. Besides, stainless steel material is naturally resistant against rust thus prolonging its life and service. The charcoal filter will last up to 6 months and has to be cleaned periodically using soap solution.
Best Features
- 1-gallon capacity
- Extremely lightweight with only 0.01 pounces
- Activated charcoal-filter and airtight for odour control
- Made of stainless steel for durability
- Easy to clean
Components
- Compost bin
- User manual
- Warranty card
10. Geobin Expandable Compost Bin
Geobin is a reliable brand that develops innovative and easy-to-use solutions for your home and garden needs. The brand’s products are priced affordable offering you the most value for money.
This compost bin is one of the most affordable options yet provides you a large capacity for decomposing organic waste and preparing compost. It offers you an extra large capacity of 216 gallons when you expand it up to 4 feet. Furthermore, this compost bin is easy to setup and is ideal for all people, irrespective of whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner.
The compost bin weighs 7 pounds which is not that heavy considering its capacity to accommodate large volumes of waste. So, you can easily carry it and place it anywhere you want. Once you have filled the bin with food scrapings and kitchen waste and decomposed them, you will get large volumes of fresh nutrient-rich compost that you can use for a long time.
Best Features
- Extra large 216 gallons capacity
- Expandable to up to 4 feet
- Lightweight with only 7 pounds
- Easy to setup and use
Components
- Compost bin
- User manual
- Warranty card
11. Bamboozle Food Compost Bin
Bamboozle is a relatively small brand. Bamboozle offers an eco-friendly alternative to everyday kitchenware. The brand manufactures all its products from durable bamboo fibre that are environmentally friendly and dishwasher safe.
This compact compost bin weighs 2.5 pounds and measures 7 x 6.25 x 9 inches that allows you to place the bin in tight spaces in your kitchen. Besides, there is a charcoal filter placed in the lid that traps the foul smell and keeps your kitchen odour-free. You can wash the filter using a dishwasher and will last for up to 2 months.
Like all products of the brand, this compost bin is also made of perishable bamboo fiber. The material is extremely durable along with moisture resistance, heat tolerance, and dish-washer safe features. The compost bin is built to sustain everyday use and last for long years. Once the compost bin becomes unusable, the material decomposes into the earth without any environmental impact.
Best Features
- Lightweight and portable
- Made of 100% green and eco-friendly bamboo fiber
- Charcoal filter for odour control
- Durable material with moisture resistance and heat tolerance features
- Dishwasher safe
Components
- Compost bin
- User manual
- Warranty card
12. Worm Factory 360 Black Compost Bin
Worm Factory is another small brand that builds a wide range of gardening tools for commercial and personal backyard and garden maintenance. Some of the popular products of the brand include mechanical worm gears, bird food, soils, fertilizers, indoor, and outdoor compost bins.
Worm Factory’s compost bin features a standard 4-tray size that you can extend up to 6 trays to get large volumes of compost. With the thermo-siphon air flow design, the pile consisting of kitchen waste, food scraps, and cardboard decomposes faster and you get fertile, rich compost at a short time. Worm Factory’s compost bin makes the whole process of decomposing and preparing fresh compost easier and faster.
It is easy to set up the compost bin with the help of one-step assembly. First, you will have to fill the bottom tray and move upwards. Then add 1lb of composting worms that will decompose the wastes 24/7 and produce rich soil-nutrient compost. There is an instruction manual along with a DVD that provides step by step instructions for an odourless operation when using indoors. This compost bin is made of premium quality recycled materials and is backed by a long 10 years warranty period.
Best Features
- Expandable multi-tray design
- Employs worm composting process
- Easy one-step assembly
- Odourless operation
- 10 years warranty period
Components
- Compost bin
- Mineral rock dust
- Quick tips lid
- Accessory kit
- Worm ladder
- Bedding materials
- User manual and DVD
- Warranty card
13. GranRosi Stylish Farmhouse Kitchen Compost Bin
GranRosi is a family run company that strives to build premium quality products and sell them at affordable prices. The brand’s flagship product is its line of food containers. GranRosi backs all its products with a 1-year warranty and a 30-day money back guarantee.
This is a countertop compost bin that comes with a capacity of 1.3 gallons. Using this compost bin, you can easily make rich compost from kitchen waste and food scrapings. There is a built-in charcoal filter that prevents the odour from being released into the environment. Additionally, you get 2 extra filters that make your kitchen odour-free. Each filter lasts for about 3 to 4 months approximately based on your usage.
The compost bin comes with a metal indoor that is durable and sturdy. The metal indoor has a special coating on both sides that makes the bin rust free and prolongs the life. With 7.1 x 11 inches dimensions and a capacity of 1.3 gallons, you get enough space for collecting scrapings and preparing rich compost. With the help of the sturdy handle, you can conveniently empty the compost once it is ready. For cleaning the compost bin, you can use a warm soap solution and wipe the lid gently with the help of damp cloth.
Best Features
- 1.3 gallons capacity
- 2 extra charcoal filters along with a built-in filter
- Durable and rust-free metal door
- Easy to use
- Environmentally friendly
Components
- Compost bin
- User manual
- Warranty card
14. Chef’n 401-420-120 EcoCrock Counter Compost Bin
Chef’n is a popular manufacturer of products that inspire healthy eating habits and a healthy lifestyle. The brand develops innovative solutions and gadgets that solve problems in the kitchen and makes the food preparation process less tedious.
This compost bin has one of the lowest capacities on our list with 0.75 gallos that can collect up to 3 quarts of kitchen waste and turn it into fresh compost. If you have a large backyard, then you need to have more than one of these compost bins to prepare enough compost. The compost bin comes with dual buckets, among which the inner bucket can be removed when not in use. When the pile in one bucket is decomposing, you can use compost from the other bucket. By this way, you can get fresh compost round the clock.
The lid has two replaceable charcoal filters that prevent the odour from escaping into the environment. The drafted bucket shape along with built-in handle allows the waste to be removed easily by sliding them out of the container. The compost bin is made of ceramic that makes it easy to wash. While the inner bucket can be washed using a dishwasher, the outer ceramic has to be cleaned using hot water.
Best Features
- 0.75 gallons capacity
- Holds up to 3 quarts of waste
- Dual buckets with removable inner bucket
- Two replaceable charcoal filters
- Easy to retrieve the compost
Components
- Compost bin
- User manual
- Warranty card
15. DF Omer Garden Composter Bin
DF Omer is a well-known brand that designs a number of products to nurture your garden. Most of its products are made from recycled plastic including its packaging boxes.
DF Omer’s compost bin has a capacity of 110 gallons using which you can prepare large volumes of compost. Even if you are not a seasoned gardener, the tumbling design makes the decomposition process easier and helps you get rich, fertile soil for your garden. You have to add vitamin-enriched soil along with organic wastes to get the nutrient-rich produce.
Like most other products from the company, this compost bin is also made from BPA-free recycled plastic. The bin uses PP plastic to prevent heat and maintain moisture that allows organic waste to decompose faster. You can easily assemble the bin and mix the pile without using your hands. There is a secure lid that prevents domestic animals from eating the produce. DF Omer backs this garden composter bin with a 2 years warranty from the date of purchase.
Best Features
- 110 gallons capacity
- Tumbling design for easy mixing
- Made from BPA-free recycled plastic
- PP plastic for faster decomposition
- Hard and secure lid
- 2 years warranty
Components
- Compost bin
- User manual
- Warranty card
Buying Guide for the Best Compost Bin
Compost bin let you make and store the compost for your backyard quite easily. They convert the grass, twig pieces, and leaves into natural compost.
1. Worm Vs. Conventional Composting:
Before choosing a compost bin, you have to decide whether to use the vermicomposting (worm composting) or conventional composting method. Though both create rich compost that helps for the garden, yet the method you choose has to depend on the availability of your space and lifestyle.
Conventional Composting:
It is the mixture of organic material in an optimum ratio of 1 part nitrogen to 30 parts carbon in the presence of air and moisture.
Browns or high carbon ingredients include coffee grounds, shredded newspaper, and dead leaves. While grass clippings, weeds, and vegetable scraps come under green or high nitrogen ingredients.
So, the mixture of greens and browns in a moist, warm, aerated environment will form microbes such as fungi, Actinomycetes, bacteria, and others to decompose the mixture into a nutrient-rich soil fertilizer.
Worm Composting:
Here red wiggler worms are used to eat the organic waste material and thereby create compost in the castings form (worm manure), which is a super-rich fertile compost. It is fully loaded with phosphorus, nitrogen, potassium and other various micronutrients.
The compost gets tumbled and aerated by these worms. The only thing you have to do is to feed them properly with kitchen scraps and provides paper bedding. Small bins that fit easily in any corner of the patio or kitchen are the most common worm composting systems. But there are larger bins available for those looking to create a lot of compost.
One should keep the temperature of composting bins between 40° – 80°F. So, a sheltered area is the best place to keep them. A detachable way (won’t require turning) to compost will differentiate the vermicomposting from the traditional one. Worms love food scrap, which is the best solution to reduce your kitchen leftover.
2. Capacity:
The size or capacity of the compost bins matters most, yet bigger ones don’t need to be a better option. The capacity of the compost bins is like this…
- Small bins will have the capacity that ranges from 1 – 10 gallons
- The capacity of medium range bins come from 11 – 30 gallons
- Large-sized bins will be 31 gallons or more.
Each sized bin has its pros and cons. For instance, a small-sized bin is not enough to produce/maintain compost in large quantity from yard debris. Also, you have to empty the smaller bins more frequently.
Turning the compost regularly for proper material distribution and aeration is a challenging task in larger bins. So, the larger bins will have the longer pile, which has to cook to turn them into compost (takes a longer time).
Verdict – A small bin is ideal for those having their own compost pile (or) an outdoor compost bin with a curbside pick-up for the compost. A bigger bin is suitable for those having weekly drop-offs.
3. Stationary Vs Tumbling:
Mostly, we notice two major types of compost bins – tumblers and stationary. Let’s know about them in detail.
Stationary Compost Bins – This type of bins comes with a larger capacity compared to tumblers, which makes it a great option for homeowners having much more garden wastes like leaves, grass clippings, and weeds. You have to turn it manually by using a pitchfork occasionally to retain the compost pile cooking.
Tumbling Composters – A sealed container with a handle and are placed on a stand. It can turn the contents quickly, easily, and effortlessly to mix the composting materials. Yet have small capacity than stationary ones. These bins have an efficient design that helps to quickly decompose its contents.
One has to choose the right type of bin based on how much organic/biodegradable waste they have and how quickly they want to produce the compost.
Verdict – If you are looking for a quick compost without using a pitchfork for flipping, then a compost tumbler is your best option. While having a lot of yard debris and won’t mind turning the compost pile manually, then prefer to use a stationary bin.
4. Indoor or Outdoor Bin:
Where you want to place the bin (either indoors or outdoors) will be determined by what you are composting most. For instance, if you want to compost food scraps mostly, then put a small bin within the kitchen. While if you are focusing more on yard or garden wastes, then keep the bin outside.
The use of a smaller bin will prevent the odor but it has to be emptied regularly (whenever it is full). So, choose them based on your wastes. If you want to store food waste before dropping it off in compost, then an indoor countertop or under-sink model works well for you. While looking to empty less frequently or mix food and yard waste, then opt for an outdoor bin.
5. Material:
Generally, the compost bins are manufactured from metal, plastic, or wood, in which most of the commercial composters are made of dark-colored recycled plastic. Outdoor bins have to be made with weather-resistant materials that fit perfectly with the landscape and lasts longer.
- Metal – It can easily withstand all the seasons and combat pets. So, it is an ideal choice for outdoor usage (can be used indoors as well) but the only drawback is, it is heavy than other bins.
- Plastic – Lighter options that can be used both outdoors and indoors. Prefer to use plastic bins that are made from recycled materials. Dark plastic bins/commercial bins are perfect to absorb heat from the sun and thus prevent moisture loss, which aids in proper composting. The main drawback is, extreme weather may these bins lead to warp or crack over time.
- Wood – It perfectly blends into outdoor spaces but becomes the home for pests and rot, if not taken proper care of. It is not a quite common type of compost bin but used for garden or yard wastes.
Other materials include stoneware or bamboo can be used as a plastic-free alternative for compost bins. These are attractive but has to take more care to retain smells from being absorbed.
6. Seal:
A compost bin with a tight-fitting lid will help to prevent odors and ideal to use for both indoors and outdoors (less likely to attract animals). So, a tight seal will deter any pest or rodents along with minimizing the odor. Make sure to pick a bin that opens with ease, particularly tumbling bins require to open lids smoothly. This allows you to rotate the bin while lifting the lid.
7. Odor Control:
The biggest enemy of indoor composting is the odor. To fight and win in this battle, you have to use the right material in proper composition. Metal is a good option for not absorbing odor. Also, plastic designed without corners or cracks will minimize odor, if cleaned regularly. A few bins are designed to be dishwasher-safe that let you wash the bin after emptying the bin and restarting to filling up, as it will reduce the odor.
Most indoor models have sealed lid to prevent odors, but comes with a filter. So, check out for a bin having removable filters that are replaced or washed over time. It would be like a bonus if you get replacement filters along with the purchase of the bin. For proper ventilation, most commercial compost bin must have holes or air vents on their selected parts. A few bins are designed with charcoal filters to lessen the odor.
8. Shape:
Compost bins come with shapes like square, cylindrical, rectangular, or pyramid-shaped. Determine the bin shape based on the composter style you plan to purchase, and check whether it fits perfectly in the yard. In case, if you have less space (short of space), then prefer to use rectangular/square bins that fit comfortably into corners.
9. Bags:
Most bins are designed to maintain compost bags in place, but some compostable bags won’t break down easily in home-composting conditions. They need to reach higher temperatures commonly seen in municipal facilities or large-scale environments. So, it is better to avoid bags while composting at home. Even though if you are interested in using them, then make some research and look for the bag, which breaks down easily under a home-composting environment.
10. Other Features:
A compost bin (even a basic one) will offer various features to make you are composting much easier without much effort.
- A bin with an easy to remove lid will let you add food scraps easily into the bin while you are preparing/cooking food.
- A bin with a handle will allow you to carry the bin outdoors easily and its holes aids in proper venting to lessen odor that comes out of food.
- Sometimes, worm bins offer more features than other types, why because the actual composting will happen inside them. Here a specific kind of system, like trays will allow worms to move up for composting the newly added waste.
- Looking to compost with worms, then look for various features that allow you easy to access the processed material. Also, check the way to drain out the liquid compost, a byproduct of vermicomposting.
Types of Compost Bins:
There are various types of compost bins available in the market, the most commonly used ones are mentioned below. Have a look at them.
Countertop – A bucket used to store scrap till you dump them properly in your compost pile (or) other places where it is picked up and processed. It is a basic type that has a handle for carrying, easy to remove the lid, and some small holes for ventilation. Purchase and place this model in your kitchen to store food scraps.
Food Recyclers – This type of bin can grind and heat food to speed up the composting process. The food recycler can easily break down the food waste (such as bones, vegetable scraps, dairy) in 8 hours, yet have some drawbacks. As the broken food won’t have proper bacteria, which makes it unable to use as instant compost and it has to sit outside for some time to break down. They break down various types of food waste that home compost piles won’t break down on their own.
Worm Composters – This type of bin is meant to stay indoors, as these worms require a temperate environment. The vermicomposting bins are the best example that let the worms move upward to leave rich compost below with the help of trays or filters. To get the worm castings, these trays will allow you to access the lowest level of the bin.
Bokashi – It is a less common type of bin used for composting, which is done in an anaerobic environment. With its tight lids, they allow your waste to ferment and thus fermented material won’t be used as regular compost. It has to be buried or decay more in a compost bin. It is the ideal option for people with limited outdoor space, yet with limited material and benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions:
If you take proper care of kitchen compost bins, then they will last forever. For this, you have to follow these maintenance tips.
*Wash them regularly after emptying them either by using a dishwasher or hand.
*If you want to purchase a bin that needs liners, then ensure that you keep those stock handy.
*Make sure to get the tools to measure the pH of the soil along with its moisture and temperature levels whenever you want to compost within the bins.
*The high-maintenance process is mostly involved in the worm bins, as these worms need utmost care along with well-maintaining the worm bins (vermicomposting). The reason is that the worms will thrive when placed in the right spot.
Carbon, nitrogen, and moisture are the essential things required for composting. So, yard scraps, liquids (water), and food waste is commonly used to compost. Here the waste providing nitrogen is labelled as green materials (wet items such as grass clippings, food scraps, or used coffee grounds), while the waste providing carbon is termed as brown materials (dry items such as shredded newspaper, fallen leaves, or straw). You can use the combination of these green material, brown material and a bit of water (if needed) to form proper compost.
Although, the usage of compost bin is quite simple and easy. Here is the detailed process that explains how to use this compost bin.
*Besides a compost bin, you need a tool like a shovel or a pitchfork to stir the mixture, and a nearby water source. If using a tumbling composter, then no need to use any tool for its mixing, as they are designed conveniently.
*After setting all the essential things, you have to place the bin in a dry spot, a bit closer to the water source. The reason is to add moisture to the green and brown material layers. A general rule is to combine 1-part green matter and 3 parts brown matter in a bin. We recommend you follow the directions provided for your specific compost bin for better results.
*After combining the nitrogen and carbon matters in a correct ratio, you have to add water to this mixture, until it looks like a damp sponge. In case, if it is too soggy, then add more dry material. Use a shovel or pitchfork to turn the compost at least once a week on regular basis and wait until the inside material turns to proper compost.
*Based on your climate and compost bin size, its composting time may vary. It may take from a few weeks to a year to form as a perfect compost. Make sure that the compost should be dry and dark brown color with an earthy smell.
Conclusion
Choosing the right compost bin saves you a lot of time and effort, along with providing a continuous flow of rich, fertile compost for your garden/backyard. Depending on the size of your garden and whether you have enough space to place the bin in your kitchen or not, you can select the perfect bin to meet your needs.
- If you have a large backyard and want a bin with a large capacity, you can with Geobin’s expandable compost bin. It has the largest capacity on our list with 216 gallons.
- If you want a bin with an adequate capacity and dual chambers for an uninterrupted flow of compost, you can opt for Vivosun’s tumbling rotating compost bin.
- If you want a compact bin for indoor use, go with GranRosi’s stylish farmhouse kitchen compost bin.
