A Beginner's Guide to Using a Kitchen Compost Bin

Are you interested in reducing your carbon footprint and producing nutrient-rich soil for your plants? One way to do this is through a kitchen compost bin! Composting food scraps can seem daunting, but it's pretty simple. In this blog, I'll explore the basics of using a kitchen compost bin so that you can turn your kitchen waste into rich soil.

First, you'll need to know that these are commonly called kitchen compost bins. The name is misleading and I don't know who's idea that was.

These bins don't make actual compost. They help decompose matter, which can be put into an outdoor compost bin or pile or dug into your garden soil. After that, it will turn into nutrient-rich compost over time.

So remember, this is a valuable tool to help support the composting process!

Choosing a Compost Bin

The first step in using a kitchen compost bin is choosing the right one. There are many options available, from plastic to ceramic to stainless steel. Consider the size of your kitchen and how much waste you produce.

Smaller options work well for apartments, while larger bins might be more suitable for larger households. Ensure your bin has a tight-fitting lid to control odor and keep pests out.

Also, look for a bin with a handle or easy-to-lift lid for easy access.

What to Compost

It's important to know what can and cannot be composted when composting.

Compostable items include fruit and vegetable scraps, eggshells, coffee grounds, tea bags, and yard waste. Avoid composting meat or dairy products, as they can attract pests and cause unpleasant odors.

Also, be aware that some items, such as citrus peels and onions, take longer to decompose and may make the compost bin smell unpleasant.

If you want to be able to compost anything like meat, dairy, or citrus, then look into my videos or posts on bokashi composting as I have been able to do all that, plus get nutrient-rich fertilizer right there and then in my kitchen that can be diluted and used on plants.

Maintaining Your Compost Bin

To keep your compost bin functioning correctly, it's essential to keep the balance of "greens" and "browns." Greens include food scraps and grass clippings, while browns include dried leaves, cardboard, and straw.

Aim for a 50/50 balance of greens and browns to keep your compost bin from smelling and to create a healthy environment for the microorganisms that break down the waste.

Harvesting Compost

Add your kitchen bin to your outdoor compost pile or bin, or dig it in your trench when it is complete. Turning it into compost will take some time, depending on your climate and method.

Use the compost in your garden or for houseplants to add nutrients and improve soil health. Be sure to screen the compost beforehand to remove large chunks or uncompressed materials.

Troubleshooting

Don't give up if your compost bin is not working correctly. Composting can be a trial-and-error process. Some common problems include odors, pest problems, or a lack of decomposition.

If you encounter any of these problems, try adjusting the ratio of green to brown materials, so if your bin is smelly or slimy, try adding more cardboard or other brown material.

If there are pests, ensure the lid is closed correctly, add more brown material to prevent it from smelling, and absorb excess moisture.

Remember, kitchen compost bins shouldn't have a strong, pungent, smelly odor.

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Composting in your kitchen may seem intimidating, but it's a simple and rewarding step to reduce your waste and improve your soil health.

You'll soon be producing your rich compost by choosing the proper compost bin, knowing what to compost, maintaining an appropriate balance of materials, and troubleshooting any issues.

So start your composting journey today and reap the benefits of a more sustainable and regenerative lifestyle!