Food waste is a major problem in the United States. The U.S. Department of Agriculture says that each day, people throw out an average of 30%-40% of the food they buy. But a compost bin can help you make lemonade out of slightly overripe lemons. These simple containers take organic material that would otherwise rot uselessly in a landfill and turn it into rich, organic soil.
The Miracle Gro Dual Chamber Compost Tumbler is a great outdoor bin from a trusted name in garden tools. It’s easy to use and produces plenty of compost.
Garden composters and indoor compost bins each perform essentially the same function on different scales. Indoor bins sit on the counter and are great for smaller quantities of food waste, while outdoor garden composters can handle not only food but also yard waste and other organic brown or green material.
If you choose an outdoor compost bin, the next decision to make is whether you want a tumbler or a bin.
Compost bins for the countertop are made of metal, ceramic or plastic. Outside, look for composters in plastic, metal or wood.
If you choose a tumbler, look for a handle that turns easily and smoothly. Most people choose this type of composter to avoid heavy physical labor, so it should be easy to use.
Countertop compost bins need to have odor-blocking filters. These may use charcoal, or they may be doubled up for the best protection.
When combined with a filter, tightly fitted lids ensure that no odors seep out. This also prevents any accidental spills.
Because compost needs to reach a certain temperature to kill off harmful bacteria and weed seeds, a temperature gauge can be helpful. Look for composters with integrated temperature readings.
Price will vary depending on whether you choose a countertop compost bin or full-size outdoor garden composter. Expect to spend $20-$200.
A. The process of turning food scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich soil is simple.
A. It depends entirely on how much material you have, and whether it is in good balance between brown and green matter, air and water. Generally speaking, completely composted material that has become soil takes three months or more.
A. Yes. Avoid adding any of the following to your composter:
Miracle Gro Dual Chamber Compost Tumbler
What you need to know: With two chambers going at the same time, you'll always have rich organic soil when you need it.
What you’ll love: Internal mixing bars keep material moving for compost in less than six weeks. The tumbler design is easy to operate. It holds up to 37 gallons of material and comes with a two-year warranty.
What you should consider: It is small and may not be adequate if you are incorporating yard waste.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
FCMP Dual Chamber Tumbling Composter
What you need to know: This speedy model produces compost in as little as two weeks.
What you’ll love: It holds 37 gallons of material. It is made of recycled polypropylene, free of potentially harmful bisphenol A, and treated to inhibit the sun's ultraviolet rays and not degrade in direct sunlight. The tumbler handle is easy to turn.
What you should consider: Some users report leaking. Make sure to incorporate dry ingredients as needed.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
RSVP International Endurance Stainless Steel Compost Pail
What you need to know: This sleek indoor bin has a large capacity and looks great on the counter.
What you’ll love: It holds 1.5 gallons of waste and comes with two charcoal filters for better odor control. It’s dishwasher-safe and has a relatively small footprint — just 9.5 inches wide and 10 inches tall.
What you should consider: It is expensive and also requires expensive filters.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Suzannah Kolbeck writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
