Composting is a fantastic way to reduce food waste while creating a valuable resource that will provide nutrients to your plants. If you’re eager to begin composting, the first thing you’ll need is a reliable bin. But with so many types of bins out there, how do you choose? In this article, we’ll explore the different varieties of compost bins and how to determine which type is best suited to your lifestyle.
Our Top Recommendations for Different Types of Compost Bins
Once you’ve decided on the type of bin that’s right for you, the next step is finding a reliable brand to purchase from. Here are some of the best compost bins on the market for each type we’ll discuss. This includes indoor bins, outdoor bins, electric bins, and more!
- Best stationary compost bin: D.F. Omer Garden Composter Bin – $88.27
- Best tumbling compost bin: VIVOSUN Outdoor Tumbling Composter – $94.99
- Best worm compost bin: 5-Tray VermiHut Plus – $109.95
- Best in-ground compost bin: DIY – est. $10
- Best food waste digester bin: Green Cone Solar Waste Digester – $249.95
- Best electric compost bin: Lomi – $499
6 Types of Compost Bins to Upcycle Your Food Waste
There are many different composting bins available to dispose of your food waste. The best compost bins for you will accommodate your lifestyle and preferences. For your convenience, here are 6 varieties of compost bins for upcycling your food waste.
1. Stationary
Stationary compost bins are a good choice for people who want to dispose of garden waste and food scraps in one location. They are self-contained units that don’t take up too much room in small yards or suburbs. Stationary bins are popular for beginners as they require little effort. Look for bins made from recycled plastic for a zero-waste option.
Best for: Anyone who wants a central place to toss out their various yard waste, kitchen scraps, and other compostable organic materials.
2. Tumbling/Rotating
Tumbling compost bins have one or more chambers that you can rotate by turning a handle. This helps evenly distribute oxygen throughout the pile, speeding up the decomposition process. They cover the pile, prevent moisture buildup, and are easier to turn than a traditional pile.
Best for: People with outdoor space who intend to dispose of both kitchen and garden waste.
3. Worm
Worm bins are designed for vermicomposting, where worms eat organic materials to speed up the composting process. These bins provide a well-distributed and reliable flow of oxygen. Consider purchasing a worm bin that can be brought indoors during winter months.
Best for: Gardeners who want to create nutrient-rich fertilizer for their plants.
4. In-ground composters
In-ground composters are buried partly in the ground and have drilled holes for worms to enter. They produce rich compost with the help of worms while minimizing exposure and odors.
Best for: People who want to produce compost with the help of worms and are willing to dig a hole on their property.
5. Food waste digesters
Food waste digesters keep organic materials from ending up in landfills. These bins don’t produce compost but are ideal for those without gardens who want to dispose of food waste in an eco-friendly way.
Best for: Anyone who wants a convenient way to dispose of food waste and isn’t interested in using compost as fertilizer.
6. Electric countertop composters
Electric compost bins like Lomi break down food scraps quickly and efficiently using aerobic decomposition. They are odor-free, low-maintenance, and suitable for those with limited organic waste.
Best for: People who want a simple, low-stress, and odor-free composting solution.
Top 10 Considerations When Choosing Your Compost Bin
When selecting a compost bin, consider factors such as indoor or outdoor composting, the type of waste you plan to compost, the amount of organic waste you have, and your budget. Also, think about whether you want to use the compost as fertilizer, how you feel about odors, how much effort you can put in, whether you’re comfortable handling worms, how fast you want your compost, and the climate of your location.
What Type of Compost Bin is Best Overall?
For the most convenient, fast, odorless, and space-efficient composter, Lomi is the best pick. It turns food waste into nutrient-rich dirt within hours, ready to add to your garden or plants. Lomi requires minimal maintenance and no outdoor space. It can handle materials that traditional compost can’t, such as meat and bioplastics.
By selecting the right composting bin, you’re setting yourself up for success. Consider your lifestyle and preferences to find the perfect bin for you and your family. Enjoy the benefits of composting without the stress.
Written by: E Sawden