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.

• 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