Monday 15 July, 2024

Types of Composting Bins


Types of Composting Bins Trying to figure out the best compost bin design? Perhaps you are looking to buy a bin, or maybe you want to create your first DIY compost bin. In this guide, we will introduce you to different types of composting bins to consider. There are quite a few ways to break […]


Types of Composting Bins

Trying to figure out the best compost bin design? Perhaps you are looking to buy a bin, or maybe you want to create your first DIY compost bin. In this guide, we will introduce you to different types of composting bins to consider.

There are quite a few ways to break down categories of composting bins. You could group them by material, the location where you put them, their features, or how they work. Below are some of the types you are most likely to encounter or consider for your own backyard.

1. Compost Tumbler

If you are opposed to turning your own compost, you might consider a product called a compost tumbler. It takes the form of a cylinder with a handle.

Although a compost tumbler can reduce the manual labor involved with composting, it can also be an expensive product. You may find some of the other solutions below more cost effective.

But if you need a batch of compost ready fast, a tumbler is the way to go. Indeed, with its ability to get the job done in 4-8 weeks, it is classified as a batch composter.

2. Compost Bag

A compost bag is a biodegradable product that you can use to collect and contain the materials you want to compost.

A single compost bag can cost you more than $20, however, so this also is not always the most budget-friendly option.

3. Compost Bin

Plastic bins for composting are another option worth considering. You can purchase a commercial bin designed for composting, or you can just convert a regular plastic container to serve this purpose.

Turning and aerating compost in a plastic container is not always convenient, so this option for composting is a bit slower than some others (indeed, you may not turn it much at all). But if you plan ahead, that should not be a big deal. Because they work gradually and you add items to the bin over time, this solution is known as a continuous compost bin.

Compost bins work great if you want to manage a large volume of compost. They also are inexpensive compared to other options, and can be rugged for long-term use.

4. Worm Compost Bin

Red wigglers and European nightcrawlers can facilitate composting in a worm compost bin. We actually have provided detailed instructions on how you can get started with worm composting using plastic bins in the following series of articles:

• Try Plastic Bins for Worm Composting! Part 1: Introduction
• Try Plastic Bins for Worm Composting! Part 2: Benefits
• Try Plastic Bins for Worm Composting! Part 3: Types of Bins

Worm composting is appropriate if you have the time and energy to take care of the worms’ habitat, and are not aiming for a large-scale composting solution.

You are now familiar with some of the different options out there for composting in your garden. To find out more about this topic, check out What to Look for in a Plastic Bin for Composting and How to Make a Basic Composting Bin.

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