Category: Composting

So you’ve found maggots (larvae of flies; whitish to transparent worm-like organisms) in your kitchen compost bins and wondering how they got there. You are at the right place. The more important part is how to deal with them.

Maggots can enter kitchen compost bins for various reasons, like food waste in the bin, too many greens, or wrong temperature. Maggots break down organic matter in the compost, but if the temperature is too cold, they can’t function but keep multiplying.

Let’s check out the most effective solutions to deal with maggots in the kitchen compost bin!

Solutions to Deal with Maggots in Compost Bin

A maggot attack on kitchen compost can escalate to a serious problem if they fly out of the bin. Hence, dealing with excessive maggots as soon as possible is important.

Keep your Bucket in a Cool Location

Maggots multiply when kept at warmer temperatures. Move your bucket to a cooler location, like under the sink, counter, or a cool spot in your kitchen where sunlight doesn’t directly shine on the bin. This method may reduce the decomposition rate due to lower temperatures.

Freeze Compost Scraps

This one’s particularly useful for people who get scraps picked up periodically. Maggots don’t grow in frozen food waste. You can use small plastic bags to freeze organic waste. However, this is a time taking process, and your freezer won’t have much space all the time.

Increase Brown Content

Maggots grow in a warm and moist environment. Increasing the brown content ratio in the bin can limit maggot growth. Things like ripped-up cardboard, paper, toilet paper tubes, or used paper towels absorb the moisture and stop maggot breeding.

Use Compostable Bags to Collect Food Scrapes

Maggots love food waste as it provides them with food. Reduce the food waste in your compost bin, or you can also put it in compostable bags. The bags limit the oxygen needed by maggots to grow and multiply.

However, it will increase the composting time by slowing the decomposition rate. It makes it tough for flies to lay eggs in compost bins.

Keep the Compost Bins Clean

Flies and maggots love dirty places. Most people don’t clean the compost bin regularly, making it smell awful. You must clean the bins once you empty them. A simple wipe with a paper towel or wash it with clean water helps keep the bins clean and germ-free.

Don’t open your Bin too much

Limit your compost bins’ opening and closing frequency to keep flies away. Maggots are fly larvae; if you don’t let flies enter the bin, they won’t lay eggs.

What to do for Compost Bins with holes? Many compost bins, especially DIY bins, have numerous holes for airflow. You can install a mesh screen around the bins to keep maggots away. Select a mesh that doesn’t allow flies to pass through.

Use Electric Composters

Electric or smart composters are in vogue. They compost quickly because they maintain a constant internal environment required for composting. However, you must remove the contents once the waste has been transformed. Moreover, organic waste in electric composters must not stay there for more than 24 hours.

Avoid Composting Fat/Meat/Dairy

Meat, dairy, and fat take a long time to break down. Hence, they stay longer in compost bins and attract flies, ultimately turning your compost bin into a maggot breeding ground. It is better not to add such things in compost bins; instead, you can send them to municipality bins.

Add some Vinegar/Citrus Fruit

Vinegar is acidic and keeps flies and maggots away by creating an acidic environment. However, you must only add ¼ teaspoon of vinegar for every 5 pounds of material in the bin.

Adding some citrus fruits or peels has the same impact. You can also add pine needles, but they take too much time to decompose.

Agricultural Lime

Add lime in a measured amount to speed up the composting process; it leaves less food for maggots. Please be careful; too much lime will increase the pile’s pH and slow composting.https://web.archive.org/web/20240229074317if_/https://www.youtube.com/embed/msN54tto-zw

Frequently Asked Questions

Are maggots good for composting?

Yes. Maggots are more than good for compositing. Maggots increase the decomposition rate and speed up the compositing process.

You must not remove maggots from composting if you are okay with their appearance, smell, and sound.

You may be surprised that many composting facilities intentionally use black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) in a process known as grub composting. Moreover, the black soldier doesn’t carry disease.

How to get rid of maggots in outdoor compost tumblers?

Compost tumblers are typically enclosed composting systems, but they have holes for airflow. Moreover, flies can find their way through pretty much anything. You can use a mesh screen to cover these holes. The above methods also work for compost tumblers.

However, if your tumbler has hundreds of maggots, it is a good idea to remove the compost, clean it, and start compositing from scratch.

Will maggots fill my house with flies?

It takes 3-4 weeks for maggots to become an adult fly. Hence, it is unlikely that flies will enter your house from compost bins even if you have biweekly pickups. Flies may get to your house if you leave the compost bin open and go somewhere for 1-2 months.

Kitchen composting is making organic compost from kitchen waste like food scraps. The compost (final product), when added to soil, enriches it and helps grow better plants and crops.

This guide explains how you can organic compost from kitchen waste!

Different Ways to Make Organic Compost from Kitchen Waste

Composting is easy once you get ahold of it. The most important thing for composting is knowing the brown to the green ratio, temperature, moisture, pH, what to add, and what not to add to the compost pile.

There are a few methods you can use to compost your kitchen waste. Let’s check them out.

DIY Compost Bin

The simplest way for beginners to compost kitchen waste is to make a DIY bin. You would need a plastic bin that you may already have around your home. You can also buy from a nearby store for around $10. Other things required a drill machine or hammer & nails, dry leaves or newspaper, clean dirt, and kitchen scraps.

• Start by making a few holes in the bottom and lid of the bin with a drill machine or nail & hammer. There is no requirement for the number of holes, but each hole must be 1-3 inches apart. You can also make some holes on the sides for increased aeration.

• Fill up to a quarter of the bin with dry leaves or shredded newspaper and add relatively clean dirt or soil until the container is half full.
• Add your kitchen scraps. Don’t forget to maintain a 30:1 brown-to-green ratio and avoid things that take longer to compost.
• Give the pile a gentle stir with a shovel. You can also do it with your hand but don’t forget to wear gloves.
• Wet the compost slightly but not too much, as too much moisture can lead to odors.
• Close the lid and place the bin in a shady area.
• Stir the contents whenever you add compost or at least 1-2 times every week. Add another bin if you are planning to get more compost next season.

Backyard Composting

Most homeowners with yards prefer outdoor composting. They gather organic kitchen waste for 2-3 days and then transfer it to an outdoor tumbler or bin.

The bins and tumblers are available in different sizes and features. The commercial designs make it easy to stir the contents and collect compost tea. Moreover, they also help maintain the constant internal temperature required to speed up the composting process.

Make sure you have ample space under a shade to keep the composter or bin. Don’t forget to maintain the brown-to-green ratio and turn your pile every 3-4 days to ensure oxygen supply.

Indoor Compost Bin

Indoor compositing is an excellent option for small homes, apartments, or condos. Moreover, it is also great for individuals or small families.

However, indoor composting may not be your thing if you have a lot of waste. Indoor compost bins are available in different shapes and sizes. Select the one that meets your composting needs.

Electric Composters

The most convenient way to compost organic kitchen waste is to use indoor electric composters. These smart composters are available in different sizes, shapes, and features.

Electric composters decompose food quicker than traditional composting because they maintain constant internal temperature and airflow.

Vermicomposting

Vermicomposting is also known as worm composting. It involves using worms to speed up the decomposition process. Vermicomposting can be carried out in either DIY or commercial composters.

It is a slightly complex method and must be used by experienced composters.

Trench Composting

Trench composting is the simplest method of all. It is also the easiest as you only have to dig a 1-2 foot deep trench in your backyard. Bury the food scrapes and cover them in about 6-8 inches of soil. The moisture and oxygen in the soil will automatically convert organic waste into compost. Make sure you bury the compost at least 6-8 inches away from your plants.

Kitchen Waste you can Compost

• Egg shells
• Fruit and vegetable scraps
• Coffee grounds & tea bags
• Stale bread & corn husks
• Expired spices
• Nutshells
• Juicer pulp

Kitchen Waste you shouldn’t Compost

• Meat and fish waste/products
• Bones
• Dairy products
• Oily foods & products
• Baked goods
• Cooked food waste
• Black walnut products
• Onion & garlic scraps
• Citrus fruit scraps

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I temporarily store organic waste in the kitchen if I compost outdoors?

You can use a temporary compost bin to store the waste for 3-4 days and then empty it in the composter.

What can I do to avoid landfills if I don’t want to compost?

You can hire a compost collecting service or drop the compost in municipality composting tanks. You can also give organic waste to your neighbors if they compost.

Many people wonder if they can compost in apartments. While there are no gardens in an apartment, many people grow plants like mint, chives, parsley, lavender, and green plants (salads). Composting provides nutrient-rich soil that is great for plants.

This article explains how you can start a composting bin in an apartment.

3 Ways to Start a Compost Bin in an Apartment

1. Buy a Compost Bin: Visit a gardening store nearby or order your favorite bin online. Depending on size, build quality, and material, a compost bin may cost you from $30 to $400. Electric compost bins are costly of the lot but give the best results for apartments. Commercial compost bins are available in different models. You can go with a countertop compost bin, bucket composting system, worm bin, Bokashi composting method, electric countertop composter, window compost box, and small compost tumbler.

2. Donation/Municipal/Private Composting: People who don’t want to compost themselves but still want to play a role in environmental conservation can donate compostable waste. You can also hire a municipal waste collection or private composting firm. These services pick compostable items from your home regularly after a fixed interval.

3. Make a DIY Compost Bin: It is cheaper for starters. You’ll need two same-size plastic bins with lids, a drilling machine, soil, and shredded newspapers or sawdust. Let’s learn more about this method.

Composting in an Apartment with a DIY Compost bin

Drilling Holes

Take one plastic bin and start drilling holes around the top of the container. The size of the holes doesn’t matter too much, but the holes must be 1-3 inches apart. The holes are critical for airflow during the composting process.

Drill holes in the bottom of the same bin. The holes must be distributed evenly and 1-3 inches apart. The holes allow the composting liquid to drain into the second plastic bin. This liquid can be used to fertilize plants or disposed of.

Add Soil

Place the bin with holes inside the other bin. Fill the top bin halfway with soil and add dry absorbent material like shredded newspapers or sawdust.

Add Organic Waste

The composter is now ready. Add organic waste and cover it with newspaper or sawdust. The additional coating absorbs moisture and prevents molds and odors. Close the lid after adding the material.

Cleaning

The DIY composting bin requires periodic cleaning. Simply lift the top bin and empty the liquid in the bottom bin. The liquid, also known as compost tea, can be used as a fertilizer. Wash the bottom bin, dry it, and place it back.

Things that You Can Compost

• Fruits and vegetable peels and scrape
• Coffee grounds and paper coffee filter
• Nail clippings
• Human hair
• Fresh or dried leaves
• Newspaper, non-glossy paper, shredded
• Grass clippings
• Cardboard boxes or torn pieces
• Bread, stale bread
• Cooked or plain pasta and rice
• Corn husk or cob
• Eggshells without egg white or yolk

Benefits of Composting

Household organic waste fails to decompose in landfills due to a lack of oxygen. Instead, it releases methane gas which pollutes the air and causes global warming. Composting at household and community levels has helped reduce global warming.

Composting’s by-product, compost tea, is a 100% natural fertilizer for potted plants and gardens. Moreover, the soil supplement is excellent and improves the structure and health of the soil by adding organic matter.https://www.youtube.com/embed/oZu5MxBSd8c

Tips to Speed up Composting

• Keep the bin warm: It is critical to maintain a constant temperature to speed up the composting process. The ideal composting temperature is between 90° and 140° F (32 – 60° C). The process slows down considerably below 90° F, and microorganisms die if it goes above 140° F.
• Introduce some twigs: Adding some twigs at the bin’s bottom increase the airflow and speeds up the process.
• Turn and toss: You must turn and toss your compost pile 1-2 times every week. It increases the temperature and decomposition rate.
• Maintain composting ratio: It is important to maintain composting ratio for quick composting. Most people recommend a 3:1 ratio for brown to greens. However, a different ratio may work equally great for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where to keep the indoor compost bin?

For composting, dark and dry places are preferred. Therefore, you should place your indoor compost bin in your basement, under the sink, in the closet, or even in a kitchen cabinet. Make sure the place is dry, especially if you are going to put your compost bin under the sink.

How to speed up composting in a bin?

By following a few tricks, you can speed up the composting process.

• Increase the temperature of the place where you have placed your compost bin.
• Add manures, leaves, or other green waste to the bin.
• Adding twigs to the bottom of the bin will increase the airflow, resulting in speedy composting.
• Turn your compost frequently (once every other day) to get more oxygen into the compost.

How often should you add water to your compost bin?

You should water your compost bin once or twice a week. It will depend upon the humidity content in your surroundings. If you live in a warm and dry place, watering compost twice a week will be necessary.

After you have collected the compost (end product) from your tumbler or compost bin, the next step is to spread it on your lawn. The most effective way to spread compost in your lawn is a spreader. Let’s learn how to use a spreader to spread compost on your lawn.

Types of Spreaders and How to Spread Compost with them

Special Compost and Peat Moss Spreader – The Best Option for Compost Spreading

This spreader is best for compost spreading. It is easy to use, spreads compost evenly, and doesn’t get clogged like other spreaders.

These spreaders are usually made of metal and coated for rust protection. The spreader usually has half to quarter-inch openings. The overall capacity varies from model to model.

The compost is loaded in the wheel by opening the door. The door has latches for secure operation during spinning. Make sure you close the latches before spreading.

Once the compost is loaded, you can spread it by pushing the T-handle. It spreads compost evenly and covers the area between the tires. Most spreaders have a 24-inch wheel base.

The only problem with this spreader is that it doesn’t work on narrow areas, corners, and between plants.https://www.youtube.com/embed/TeExmTnCfQQ

Drop Spreaders

Homeowners often use a drop spreader to spread compost. It is a simple structure with a bucket hopper mounted on two wheels with distribution limited between the wheels. It is best for small lawns and areas around garden beds.

Drop spreader has two types; tow and push. Homeowners usually use push type (also known as walk-behind). The compost is added to the bucket. The openings are controlled with a dial or lever at the bottom of the hopper. The application is controlled by a squeeze-control applicator on the handle.

It is easy to use but has its drawbacks. The compost particles are large and wet. They can get stuck in the openings and make the entire process difficult.

Broadcast Spreader

Broadcast spreaders are better than drop spreaders for spreading compost. A broadcast spreader comes with a fan/wheel that spreads the compost wider than the wheelbase. It is best for spreading compost on large lawns and areas that don’t need containment.

It also has a bucket mounted over the wheels. The compost is added to the bucket. The openings at the bottom of the bucket can be controlled with a dial at the bottom, and the application is controlled with the lever on the handle.

It requires a steady walking speed for even composting. However, it has the same drawback of clogging due to large-sized compost particles.

Handheld Spreaders

A handheld spreader is best for small lawns. The compost is added to the bucket, and you move over the lawn to drop the spreader. These models come with a handle, hopper, dial, and crank. The features vary from one model to another.

Handheld spreaders aren’t necessary. You can spread compost with a shovel on small lawns.

The Next Steps after Spreading

• The next step is to incorporate the compost. Use a metal rake with sturdy tines to get the best results. Rake the compost to the point so the grass blades are fully visible through the compost.
• Water in the compost with a sprinkler. Do not use a simple hose to water the recently added compost, as it will disturb the even disbursement you achieved by using a spreader.

Tips for Spreading Compost

• Mow the grass 1 inch tall before spreading compost. It makes it easier to settle down compost after applying it.
• Rake your lawn before spreading compost. You don’t want fallen leaves, twigs, dead grass, pests, and animal mess to become a part of the compost.
• Consult a lawn specialist or your grass supplier to know how much compost you need to spread and how often.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Compost to Spread?

• For Lawns: First, you have to aerate your soil. Then add 1/4 to 1/2 inches of compost layer to the lawn. Gently rake the compost into the soil.
• For Gardens: For gardens, it is best to spread 1-3 inches of compost layer. Gently rake the compost into several inches of the soil.

How often to spread compost?

You don’t need to add compost to your soil frequently. Spreading compost every two to three years is enough to maintain your plant and lawn health. However, if the soil quality is poor and infertile, you may want to increase the frequency to get better results.

Which is the best time to spread compost on the lawn?

The time to spread compost to the lawn depends on the type of grass on your lawn. For warm-season grasses, apply compost in spring just four to five weeks before summer. For cool-season grasses, apply compost in fall just four to five weeks before the start of frosting.

A countertop compost bin is similar to the regular waste bin in your kitchen. The only difference is you can throw pretty much anything and everything in waste bin but not in compost bin.

Only organic kitchen waste that can be composted goes in the compost bin. This article explains how to use a countertop compost bin.

• A countertop compost bin is similar to the regular waste bin in your kitchen. The only difference is you can throw pretty much anything and everything in waste bin but not in compost bin.
• Only organic kitchen waste that can be composted goes in the compost bin. This article explains how to use a countertop compost bin.
• Set up the bin in an area away from direct sunlight. It is not necessary to place the bin on countertop. You can place it under the sink or on the floor but keep it away from food prep area and pantry.
• Use compostable plastic or brown bags in the bin for easy emptying. Most bins come with a few months’ supply of bags.
• Replace the filter every 4-6 months or depending on when odor starts appearing. Too much odor means that you are putting things in the compost bin that don’t belong there.
• Close the lid after adding waste. Keeping the bin open invites flies and even your hungry pets at times.
• Lift the bag from the side and wrap it to take it out. You can also lift the bin and take it outside.
• For People who Compost: Throw the bag in your compost tumbler, bin or heap. Stir to mix the new waste.
• For People who don’t Compost: Tie the bag and throw it in your garden waste bin. If you live in an apartment or condo, throw the bag in your building’s organic waste can.
• Clean the bin if you see moisture or leakage after emptying the bag; let it air dry before you start using it again.

DIY Countertop Compost Bin

You can easily make a countertop compost bin at home. You need a plastic bin, drill machine, and charcoal filters to control odors. Simply drill holes in the bin’s lid approximately 1-2 inches away. You can buy charcoal filters from a nearby store or online. Cut the charcoal filters as per the bin lid size and place it on the internal side.

Get some compostable paper or plastic bags and start collecting organic waste.

Electric Compost Bins

Electric or smart composting bins are in vogue. They provide constant temperature and airflow to speed up the decomposition process.

The bins are costly, and a good one may cost up to $500. However, they are an excellent option for small homes, apartments, and people who don’t have much waste.

Simply place the bin on the countertop and plug it in. Add organic waste and let it compost.

Things to Put in Countertop Compost Bin

• Fruit and vegetable scraps
• Coffee grounds & tea bags
• Egg shells
• Nutshells
• Juicer pulp
• Stale bread & corn husks
• Expired spices

Things Not to Put in Countertop Compost Bin

• Bones
• Dairy products
• Oily foods & products
• Meat and fish waste/products
• Onion & garlic scraps
• Citrus fruit scraps
• Cooked food waste
• Black walnut products

Mushroom compost is not something related to typical composting, nor does it contain mushrooms. It is a by-product of mushroom farming. The growth medium (soil) in mushroom farming is removed after mushroom harvesting, and it is often used as fertilizer and soil amendment.

Mushroom soil or mushroom compost, like regular compost, is often valued as black gold. It delivers the same value as regular compost.

How do you get Mushroom Compost?

The mushroom substrate is prepared by mixing a variety of natural substances. The composition varies from grower to grower, but common ingredients usually include horse & poultry manure, hay, corn cobs, cottonseed hulls and meal, brewer’s grain, cocoa bean hulls, and gypsum.

It is then prepared for mushroom growth by composting for about 30 days at 160F. This process kills weed seeds, pests, or disease pathogens. The substrate is then steam-pasteurized at 140F. Mushrooms are then planted; it takes 4-5 weeks for mushrooms to grow.

Once the mushrooms are harvested, the substrate loses its ability to sustain another round of mushrooms. The substrate is then removed and packaged to be sold as SMS (Spent Mushroom Substrate) or SMC (Spent Mushroom Compost).

DIY Mushroom Compost: Can you make your own Mushroom Compost?

Yes. You can make mushroom compost at home. However, you can only prepare small batches of mushroom compost at home. Large-scale manufacturing requires specialized instruments. Here’s how you can do it.

• Get some straw from the market or make it at home using a wood chipper.
• Clean the straw by adding it to a large tub or in the sink; rinse with clean water to remove dust and debris.
• Pasteurize the straw by adding it to a large pot of boiling water.
• Bring the heat to around 160°F and let the straw sit for at least an hour or two.
• Drain the straw, place it on a clean surface; let it cool.
• Add the straw to your mushroom spores; mushroom compost will be ready after the mushrooms harvest.

Mushroom Compost – Pros & Cons

Pros

• Adds nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, and iron to the soil
• Increases the water-holding capacity of the soil because it is rich in organic matter
• Enhances clay and soil structure which improves drainage
• Good for most edible and ornamental plants
• High calcium concentration is great for plants like tomatoes
• Eco-friendly; doesn’t have any harmful impacts on the environment like commercial fertilizers
• Reduces land waste if used as compost

Cons

• Composition varies based on materials added for mushroom harvesting; it cannot be used on all plants without checking
• A high concentration of soluble salts may kill some germinating seeds
• High calcium concentration is not good for all plants
• Expensive
• Can cause fungal infections in plants

Regular Compost vs. Mushroom Compost

Many confuse regular compost with mushroom compost. These two are not interchangeable. Hence it is important to know the key differences between the two for better gardening and farming.

• Mushroom compost contains less nitrogen than regular compost because it has been used for mushroom farming.
• Regular compost suits almost all soil types, but mushroom compost isn’t. It is a good choice for nitrogen-deficient soils; adding regular compost can in nitrogen-rich soil make plant growth stunted.
• Mushroom compost is rich in calcium because chalk is added for mushroom growth. It isn’t a good option for plants like blueberries. Mushroom compost makes soil alkaline, but regular compost doesn’t alter the pH.

Mushroom Compost – Use Guidelines

• Make sure you buy cured mushroom compost; fresh mushroom compost must be cured at least one season before use.
• Aged or cured compost can be applied anytime during spring/summer; apply when the soil is dry to get the best results.

Plants That Like Mushroom Compost

• Lawns
• Orchards
• Vegetable gardens (broccoli, cauliflower, kohlrabi, cabbage, and kale)
• Container plants
• Trees, shrubs, and perennials

Plants That Don’t Like Mushroom Compost

• Azaleas
• Blueberries
• Beans
• Celery
• Cucumbers
• Magnolias
• Rhododendrons
• Radishes

The Reverend Henry Moule of Fordington invented the first composting toilet in the 1980s, and he discovered that dry earth and human waste together produce clean compost in a few weeks. Compost toilets not only reduce water use but also recycle valuable plant nutrients. Although the compost toile designs have been evolving since their discovery, the idea of composting is the same. Read this guide further to understand the working of these sustainable toilets.

What is Compost Toilet?

A compost toilet is an alternative to flush toilets by disposing of human waste and minimizing water use. These toilets eliminate the odor through an anaerobic process. Human waste is mixed with sawdust and peat moss, and the air is venting outward through a systematic setting. In compost toilets, human waste is recycled through natural processes of decomposition and evaporation. Human waste that enters the toilets is 90% water, which is evaporated through a vent system. The remaining solid material is decomposed to make natural fertilizer.

Types of Compost Toilets

Compost toilets are of various kinds; some have fans while others don’t. Some need power to operate while others are totally off-gird. Compost toilets have two basic types: slow compost toilets and active compost toilets.

Slow Compost Toilets

Slow compost toilets are also called moldering privy, and they are used infrequently or usually present at remote locations. The construction of these toilets is very simple as there is a box at the bottom and a seat on its top. Below the box, a contained compost system is installed that slowly decomposes the human waste. This system doesn’t help in pathogen elimination as it takes time to decompose human waste.

Slow compost toilets are best to use in remote locations as they save money and time and don’t leave behind the waste, so underground water is not contaminated.

Active Compost Toilets

Active toilets usually have fans that incorporate the oxygen into the system, so the composting process speeds up. Besides this, some active compost toilets have a heater to maintain a certain temperature that helps quickly degrade human waste. For the fan and heater to work, there should also be an electric source. You need to add some absorbent material to incorporate the oxygen into the system and also add carbon to it.

You can install these toilets where the use frequency is higher than the slow composting toilets. If you carefully balance all the elements and materials, you will get pathogen-free compost from active compost toilets.

How Does Compost Toilet Work?

The basic composting phenomenon will be the same whether your composting toilet uses a self-contained or central system. The compost toilet will work if the right environment is provided for anaerobic bacteria to decompose human waste. Right conditions mean; you must balance the carbon-nitrogen ratio and correct moisture and temperature level. If you don’t balance all these elements, you will not get the desired compost.

The best temperature range for anaerobic bacteria lies between 60 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Too much moisture in the waste is unsuitable for oxygen-breathing bacteria, so you have to keep your toilet moist but not wet. Some compost toilet manufacturers use automatic mixers, thermostats, and sensors to create a balance between chemicals and maintain moisture and temperature.

In compost toilets, liquids are separated from solids. Liquids are collected in a bottle and can be disposed of when the bottle or container is full. The solid waste is collected in a separate systemized container. The solid waste is combined with carbon-rich materials, including peat moss and coconut husk. To start the composting process, you need to turn a mechanical crank to mix the elements thoroughly. Bacteria and other microbes will break down the organic matter under optimum moisture and temperature conditions. In the end, you will get a nutrient-rich fertilizer. Overall, the composting toilet must perfume the following functions.

• Compost the human waste and toilet paper speedily and eliminate the odor
• Ensure that the compost is safe and easy to handle
• Evaporate the liquid from the waste

Misconception about Composting Toilets

Although composting toilets are not a new idea, many people still don’t know what composting toilets are. They have various misconceptions about these toilets, which are:

Unsanitary

People might think that composting toilets are unhygienic. That’s not true, as the composting process eliminates harmful bacteria. Liquid and solid wastes are kept separated, and solid waste is dried carefully to eliminate maximum germs.

Odor

Most people think that compost toilets smell. The reality is that compost toilets smell less than traditional toilets due to their construction. Liquids and solids are separated, and carbon-rich material is mixed with the waste. A venting system is also installed and helps eliminate the odor.

Toilet paper

People also think toilet paper is off-limits and doesn’t compost in this toilet. On the contrary, toilet paper is composted just like the waste in compost toilets.

Benefits of Compost Toilets

Due to the increasing pollution and rapid degradation of the environment, the world is now looking toward sustainable ways to live. Composting toilet is energy-efficient, reduces human waste, and converts it into valuable fertilizers. Here are the few incredible benefits that compost toilets offer.

Water-Saving

The world is moving towards a shortage of water quickly. Due to the increasing population, the water shortage is becoming a severe threat to life. Compost toilet helps in this regard as they can save up to 35,000 liters of water per year. Especially if your home is off the grid or you are living on tank water, you better realize the importance of fresh water. You don’t want to waste your fresh water in the toilet, so composting toilets are best in such scenarios.

Little Installation Cost

Traditional toilets require many installation elements, including pipes and hoses. They also require bending and maintenance costs. On the contrary, compost toilets are cost-effective, and you don’t have to pay much for their maintenance. Once you have installed your compost toilet, you just need a bottle of cleaning enzymes occasionally, and you are good to go.

Free Compost

The most notable benefit of compost toilets is that they convert human waste into nutrient-rich fertilizer or compost. You will get free compost through decomposition as you don’t have to spend your money on a specialized compost setup.

Impact

Compost toilets are one of the best solutions to reduce waste and convert it into beneficial compost. You don’t have to install pipes and hoses on your land for these toilets. Thus, you don’t need to maintain pipe lines, and there will be no potential groundwater issues. So, there will be no maintenance cost.

Final Words

Compost toilets are easy to install, and they are cost-effective and eco-friendly as well. Human waste is converted into useful compost in these toilets. To combat our depleting environment and to minimize water loss, compost toilets should be installed more often.https://www.youtube.com/embed/K4a3dTScBlg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What do insects in a compost toilet indicate?

If your compost toilet is working, it’s unlikely to have an insect problem. If your compost toilet is unbalanced, you might face insect issues. So, if you find insects in your compost toilet, there must be a fault in your compost system.

2. Do composting toilets smell unpleasant?

It’s a misconception about compost toilets that they smell bad. In a compost toilet, liquid and solid wastes are separated, and an air vent is installed. Overall, a composting toilet is designed so that it doesn’t smell bad as all the waste material dries out immediately and decomposes.

3. How often do you have to empty your composting toilet?

It depends on the frequency of use that how often you should empty your compost toilet. If two persons are using it full time, then after three weeks, you will have to empty your compost toilet. If the compost toilet is only used on weekends, then you can empty your toilet after two months.

Composting is a win-win process for humans, plants, and the environment. It is critical to understand the 4 stages of composting to improve the results.

The 4 Stages of Composting

The 4 stages of composting are termed as

1. The Mesophilic Phase
2. The Thermophilic Phase
3. The Cooling Phase
4. The Curing Phase

Some researchers and composting specialists may list these phases with different names but the composting process remains the same.

The Mesophilic Phase

Bacteria combine with oxygen and water to start the process. Carbon dioxide and energy are produced as a result, and it is used for the reproduction and growth of bacteria. The remaining energy is given off as heat.

The temperature of the pile is raised due to the reproduction of bacteria, and the temperature can reach up to 111°F (44°C). The mesophilic bacteria work only well in this temperature range, and their growth and reproduction are limited as soon as the temperature starts to go up.

The first stage lasts for a week or so. The compost settles down during this stage and is ready for the next stage.

The Thermophilic Phase

The temperature goes up to 158°F (70°C) as the thermophilic organisms become active and produce a lot of heat during this phase. When the temperature reaches such a high point, the harmful bacteria die, the seeds from weeds are killed, and the pile starts to break down rapidly. You must keep the pile damp and make sure that there is sufficient air in the bin or pile. It acts as a catalyst during this process. Remember to turn the pile upside down once or twice in this stage, as it will ensure that oxygen reaches the center of the pile and all other areas as well.

The Cooling Phase

In the cooling stage, the pile cools down to the normal temperature. A lot of organic waste is still pending to be decomposed and become usable as compost. You may notice the color of the compost turning to be brown in portions, but it is not fully complete at this time.

The Curing Phase

The last and final stage is the curing phase. Depending upon the composition of your compost, it may take up to 6 months before the compost is finally ready to be used. You can check the condition of compost after 1-2 months; if it is brown, your compost is ready.

It is helpful to turn your compost after 15-20 days in the final stage. Please do not add more waste in the final stage as it can disturb the process.https://www.youtube.com/embed/f93hqpfGrbM

A compost tumbler makes composting mess-free and convenient. However, you must be careful what you put in a compost tumbler or any other composting pile.

The blanket term for compostable materials is organic waste. However, not all organic waste is the same. Some may take years to decompose. You don’t want this to happen to your composting pile.

This article explains all the materials you should avoid putting in a compost tumbler or any other compost pile.

Things Not to Put in a Compost Tumbler

1. Meat and Fish Scrape 

It is advised not to put meat and fish in your compost tumblers. First, it takes a lot of time to rot. Second, the rotting smell attracts animals, flies, and pests. Moreover, rotting meat has an extremely foul smell. Even a properly sealed tumbler will release odors that will become a nuisance for humans and an attraction for animals.

You can only put meat in a tumbler in small quantities if you have a very hot and active tumbler. The composting activity will quickly break down the meat and makes it a part of the compost.

2. Disease or Insect-Infested Plants

Don’t forget to check the plant leaves, twigs, and branches you add to the tumbler. The disease-ridden or infected plants require higher temperatures of 141°F to 145°F up to several days. Maintaining such high temperatures for longer stretches during household composting is almost impossible, no matter how active your tumbler is. The insects or pests on these leaves will thrive and multiply due to food availability, disrupting the composting process. As a result, the composting will be quick, but there will be a lot of pests in the end.

Also Read: Can I Put Rhubarb Leaves On My Compost Heap?

3. Charcoal Ash

Coal ash is rich in sulfur, making your pile highly acidic. Moreover, coal ash or powder has harmful compounds that aren’t good for plants in the pile.

Feel free to add firewood ash or powder to the compositing bin. It is high in carbon and serves as a brown composting material.

4. Dairy, Fats, and Oils

Dairy products such as butter, cream, milk, cheese, and yogurt attract unwanted pests and visitors. Fats and oils also fall under this category, so you must avoid adding them to your compost tumbler if you do not want unwanted insects and pests to attack your compost. Processed foods with many fats and dairy items must also be left behind.

5. Citrus Fruit Peels

Citrus fruit peels take a longer time to decompose and have higher acidic content. They decrease the pH of your compost and slow down the decomposition process.

However, they are a great way to control maggots in the compost bins and tumblers.

6. Cat and Dog Waste 

Both cat and dog wastes have harmful bacteria and parasites that can cause various diseases in humans. So, your cats’ and dogs’ waste must not go to your compost tumbler. In a dog’s waste, roundworms are a serious threat. Cat’s waste contains an organism that can cause toxoplasmosis disease in pregnant females.

7. Coated Cardboard Packaging

Any food packaging that is coated with foil or plastic is not suitable to add to a compost tumbler. Takeaway cups, juice boxes, waxy-lined paper cups, and milk cartons are not compostable, so do not add them to your compost.

8. Naturally Toxic Plants

Some plants are naturally toxic that you must not add to your compost tumbler. Please avoid adding oleander leaves and anything related to the black walnut tree (including walnuts) because they contain juglone, a naturally toxic chemical for plants.

9. Lawn Trimmings Recently Treated with Herbicides and Pesticides 

If your lawn grass is treated with a high concentration of herbicides and pesticides, then using its trim causes harm to your compost. You have to wait for a few weeks before adding any treated grass or lawn trim to your compost to decrease the treatment effects.

10. Cigarette Butts 

Some cigarette butts are made of plastic, so they will not decompose. Besides this, cigarette has harmful chemicals that are not suitable for many plants. Although tobacco is compostable, cigarette butt has many other components that are not compostable at all.

11. Synthetic Soaps

Non-biodegradable soaps are not recommended to add to your compost tumbler. Check your soap’s label; if it is biodegradable, you can add it to your compost; otherwise, avoid it.

12. Used Feminine Hygiene Products

Used tampons, pads, and cardboard applicators are not allowed to add to your compost tumbler. Anything that has blood contains hard-to-kill pathogens, and these pathogens will transfer to your compost as well. Reusable cotton liners can be added to your compost if they have been properly washed.

13. Synthetic Fabric of Any Kind

Synthetic fabric contains all kinds of harmful dyes and chemicals. Even if your fabric is 99% cotton and 1% polyester, it will not decompose. A small fabric can ruin your entire compost, so it’s better not to add them.

14. Onion and Garlic Scrapes

Onion and garlic scrapes can kill beneficial bacteria and microbes, which are essential for decomposing waste materials.

15. Leather goods 

Leather goods, including wallets, belts, purses, gloves, etc., can take many years for proper decompose. Try not to add any leather good to your composting tumbler at all.

16. Glossy Paper

Any paper with a glossy plastic finish is dangerous for your compost pile. The glossy paper includes magazines, product catalogs, photographs, and wrapping papers. Please do not put any of them in your compost tumbler.

17. Weeds That Have Gone to Seed

Do not add weeds that have developed seeds to your compost because they can survive up to 145°F compost temperature. So, that means it’s hard to decompose such weeds, and they will grow faster in your compost tumbler.

18. Baked Goods

Baked goods fall in a gray area. The main reason for not composting is that baked goods rot and make a foul smell. People who compost baked items say it is okay to compost baked goods, but you must break them into smaller pieces.

19. Animal Bones

Though they can be composed but must be avoided due to an extremely slower rate. Moreover, meat items smell awful and attract pests, flies, and animals.

20. Treated Wood/Sawdust

Treated wood or sawdust will not break down quickly and inhibit the good stuff in your compost. It also takes a lot of surface area in the soil and increases the risk of latching in your plants.

21. Cellophane

Cellophane is semi-synthetic and must not be composted. However, true cellophane is biodegradable and can be composted. It will take around 30-35 days to break down completely.

22. Feminine Hygiene Products, Diapers & Human Waste

These items have bacteria and will smell bad when put in a tumbler. Moreover, handling and carrying such things to a compost tumbler is nothing short of a hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I put in a compost tumbler?

• Vegetable scraps
• Grass clippings
• Coffee grounds
• Tea bags and tea leaves
• Eggshells
• Stale bread & corn husks
• Livestock manure
• Brown paper products like cardboard rolls, cereal boxes, and brown paper bags
• Cotton & wool
• Vacuum cleaner lint from natural fabrics
• Hair & fur
• Hay & straw
• Houseplants, leaves, nutshells
• Wine corks

How much green and brown should I put in my compost tumbler?

The general ratio is 3-4 parts brown and 1 part green. The ratio may vary depending on various factors. You can read more about it here.

Why are black walnut leaves not suitable for compost tumblers?

Black walnut tree leaves, twigs, and even walnuts are not recommended to add to a composting tumbler. They excrete a toxin called juglone that is harmful to many plant species.

Can I add water to my compost tumbler?

Yes. You can add water to your compost tumbler. Moreover, it is critical to maintaining the right moisture content for successful and quick composting. Depending on pile size and temperature, the water content should be 50-60%. You can check water content by pinching a handful of compost. The moisture content is okay if it gives 2-3 drops of water.

Read More: Compost Tumbler Too Wet Problem – 4 ways to Fix it

Why doesn’t plastic compostable?

Carbon-carbon bond in polypropylene is much stronger, and it requires a lot of energy to break this bond. It’s impossible to produce such a high amount of energy naturally. According to a research, almost 100 years are required to degrade plastic naturally.