6 Creative DIY Kitchen Compost Bins

If you’re looking to reduce waste while giving your plants a quick nutrient boost, composting is definitely the way to go. Today, I’m excited to share some fun and simple DIY kitchen compost bin ideas - that will hopefully help you turn kitchen scraps into gardening gold. Let’s dive in!

1. The Classic Bucket Bin

What You'll Need:

A 5-gallon plastic bucket with a lid

Get started with a basic 5-gallon bucket. Drill some holes in the bottom for drainage, and some around the sides to enable airflow. The lid will help keep odors contained while protecting your compost from pests as well. This compact option is perfect for small kitchens or spaces, and can easily be stored away in a corner.

2. The Tumbling Composter

What You'll Need:

A tumbling compost bin (store-bought or DIY)

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option, a tumbling composter is a fantastic choice. Just give these rotating barrels a spin, they make aerating your compost a breeze! Many of these bins come with separate compartments for finished compost and fresh scraps, allowing for uninterrupted composting cycles.

3. The Stackable Bin System

What You'll Need:

Stackable compost bin trays 

Have limited space? A vertically stackable compost bin might just be your answer! These bins consist of multiple trays that let you conveniently add scraps to the top while harvesting compost from the bottom. It’s an excellent alternative to compost efficiently in a small area.

4. The Wooden Crate Composter

What You'll Need:

Wood planks

Screws

Wire mesh

Consider building a wooden crate composter for a more rustic touch.  Create a simple box with untreated wood planks, adding wire mesh at the bottom for drainage. This slatted design allows for excellent airflow, and you can remove the front panel for easy access to your compost.

5. The Trash Can Composter 

What You'll Need:

A small trash can

Drill

This one’s similar to the bucket method but on a larger scale. Drill some holes in the sides and bottom of the trash can. For convenience and ease of transport, you can also add a handle. This composting setup is a great option for those who generate a lot of kitchen waste.

6. The Countertop Composter

What You'll Need:

A countertop compost bin with a lid

Charcoal filter (optional)

If you want to show off your composting efforts, a sleek countertop composter is the ideal choice. Many of these countertop bins come with stylish designs and built-in filters to minimize odors. They’re not only functional but also enhances your kitchen and interior decor.

Tips for Successful Composting

To achieve optimal composting, aim for a good mix of carbon-rich browns (such as paper or dried leaves) and nitrogen-abundant greens (like vegetable scraps). A general rule of thumb is a 3:1 ratio of browns to greens. Turning or mixing your compost regularly will help aerate the pile, which is essential for the decomposition process.

Finally, your compost should resemble a wrung-out sponge—moist but not soggy. Make adjustments as needed to keep your compost from getting too wet or too dry. By applying one of these DIY compost bin options, you’ll not only reduce your kitchen waste but enrich your garden soil too! Not to mention reducing your carbon footprint in the process. So get creative, and enjoy the many rewards of composting!