Top 5 Compost Bins: The Ultimate Buying Guide for Eco-Friendly Waste Management

15 thoughts on “Top 5 Compost Bins: The Ultimate Buying Guide for Eco-Friendly Waste Management”

1. Simplest, fastest composter ever with long durability. Get this one, you won’t regret it. This was my 4th year using one of these composters for my backyard composting (leaves, grass clippings, garden waste, kitchen scraps). It does an awesome job- big enough capacity that there’s enough biomass to keep the breakdown happening year round, you can configure the size easily and on the fly, there’s easy access to the pile over the edge for turning, etc. The compost comes out consistent- an issue I’ve had with every other composting system I’ve ever tried, this one has the best outcome… the mesh design and upright orientation of this composter allows the right amount of air and water to penetrate the pile, so as long as you turn it with regular frequency, the materials break down evenly and quickly. Easiest composting ever!I’ve tried other types of systems over my years of gardening and permaculture work- those smaller rotating bins or 55gal (or smaller) converted barrels don’t have enough capacity to fuel the bio-reactions, and then they get gross FAST, not to mention the issue of limited accessibility to the material through tiny doors; the on-the-ground 3-sided 3-bin system doesn’t allow enough air to penetrate the pile and takes up a lot of space; random big piles in your yard blow around and and make a mess, etc. This composter solves all those problems, is cheap, simple, and durable.I’ve made it this far in the 4 years using just one of these composters- I actively load up materials in batches, then it composts down; I add more material and that composts down; then turn regularly between big additions to the bin when the temperature of the pile drops… after a few months I take off the shell and start a new pile and let the other one rest/finish off until it’s ready to be used- the resting pile holds it’s shape neatly and I’ve never had any issues of collapse or blow-away. I increased my garden capacity this year, and so now I’m ready to pick up my second composter to get a second system going for the fall leaf season.I wanted to note on the durability, since this is a plastic product and sits in the sun. I keep my composter outside year round in the intense Colorado sun, and have seen NO issues- no ripping, no fading, no weakening, etc. and it doesn’t break down in the elements (110F to -20F temps, rain, snow, large hail, squirrels, etc). I don’t cover it nor protect it in any way…. it’s just bomb-proof. Can’t say enough good things.If you have a big yard with grass, and trees that drop lots of leaves (bag them in the fall to use the rest of the year), and a garden (or neighbors!) that could really use all of that rich organic material (for free!), you MUST be composting… and this is your simplest, cheapest, and easiest solution out there.Last note- because the diameter/ capacity of this pile is large if you have it all the way expanded out, I found it helpful to use a long stem (20 inches or more) compost pile thermometer to give me an idea of the internal state of the pile, so I know when to turn it. One like this (the one I use is no longer available on Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/Thermometer-Greenco-Stainless-Fahrenheit-Temperature/dp/B01BMX3SYI/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=298TAGUIEH72H&keywords=compost+thermometer+36+inch+stem&qid=1571264669&sprefix=compost+thermometeraps168&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzUVlGUEU3VjVJQ0Q5JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNTc1MzM0NzVJOENMREdDQjNKJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTAwODY4MjIyQ0dKRkhCRU8zS0NJJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==

2. Buy it. We have this huge area in the back of our garage where all the leaves get blown. They do create nice leaf mulch on their own. But we need to find a better way to contain them so that we can put several raised beds there. I hate the idea of compost Tumblr‘s because it sounds like a wet and soggy mess but you’re gonna have to come back and interact with all the time. At one point I had a compost area built out of old pallets but eventually parts of it started to rot. I love the concept of this product and went ahead and purchased it because it sounds like something very simple, effective, and durable. The plastic is not going to rot out as far as I can see. It came in a small enough box. It was easy to carry to the back of the yard and wrangle myself. The only additional thing I think you’re going to need other than what comes in a package… Go ahead and take the time to get a few stakes and a mallet. I used a rubber mallet and 4 bamboo stakes that I already had. You could use more or less depending upon how sturdy you want it or if you’re trying to make a specific shape or something. After we got it about half full we pulled out the stakes because we needed them on our tomatoes and it seems to be sitting up just fine now. I like the general concept that you can attach several of these together. It’s basically stacks the leaf blowing area that we had before and condenses the floor print profile of everything. So instead of using 10‘ x 10‘ just laying on the ground, they can compactly fit in a much smaller space even up against the fence or something. This keeps the dogs from running through it or defecating on it. I can see how if I had a leaf mulcher or if I ran over them with a mower it we can dance even more. We might try that in the fall. In the meantime I expect we will probably buy a second one of these this fall while the first then it’s still compacting. We purchased the gold or tope color, whatever they call it. I love that they offered that instead of just the standard black and green. It kind of blends in with our fence color. I would love to see all of my neighbors go to this method instead of bagging their leaves and throwing them out at the curb. But I think in order For it to become a more commonly purchase product, the price is going to have to drop. And honestly now that I see how it works and what it’s made of… I think it’s worth the money because there’s not a comparable product out there competing but it’s also kinda high priced for how simple it is. The only grade that I have is my continued gripe with elitist home maintenance and gardening… We should be encouraging everyone to garden… But I keep seeing these expensive products out on the market insisting that people need to spend $200 for a worm bin or $100 for this other compost item. This is one of the lower price ones and even still I think it should be lower for what it is.

3. Sleek and Efficient Composting Solution. The media could not be loaded. I recently introduced this stylish compost bin to my kitchen countertop, and I must say, it’s been a revelation. No longer do I have to deal with the inconvenience of frequent trips to the outdoor compost pile every time I chop vegetables or brew coffee. This compact 1.3-gallon bucket fits perfectly in my kitchen, blending in with the appliances while offering an easy and odor-free way to collect organic waste.The inclusion of a charcoal filter was a genius touch. It effectively traps and neutralizes odors, which was a major concern of mine before making the purchase. I was pleasantly surprised to find that my kitchen remains fresh, without the faintest hint of compost smell. Plus, it came with a spare filter, ensuring I’m set for many months of use before needing a replacement.Its silver finish gives it a modern look that compliments my kitchen decor beautifully, proving that compost bins can be both functional and fashionable. The lid fits snugly, yet it’s easy to lift off when adding scraps or emptying the bin, making it a hassle-free addition to my daily routine.This compost bin has not only made composting more convenient but has also encouraged me to be more mindful of my waste, knowing that my scraps are going towards a good cause. Five stars for this efficient, stylish, and odor-free solution to kitchen composting!

4. Excellent solution for keeping your kitchen clean and smelling fresh. Super easy to use and clean. The hanger made a lot of counter space compared to our old bin. Keeps smells completely inside. Sealed, prevents gnats and fruit flies.This compost bin was a huge upgrade over the last 3 buckets we have had.I use the compostable bags and clean up is a breeze.Seems durable enough for what it is. Doesn’t feel flimsy. I was a little skeptical of the lid at first, but I love the double action. You can hold the lid open or open it the other way and it stays open. Easy to peel carrots and potatoes directly into the bin.The color is perfect for my kitchen, other bins we have had were either black, which spotlights stains and liquids, or bright colors. This bin is a perfect neutral color.All in all, a perfect kitchen bin!

5. Pain to assemble, easy to use. While I do like this product and find it easy to use, like many other reviewers, this thing was a bit of a nightmare to assemble. It took 3 of us about an hour and a half to figure it out. The main issue we found was the bolts that held everything together. They were a bit difficult to hold onto and stay tight.However, once assembled, we have found this composter to be quite easy to turn and fill and it has stayed solid through some nasty storms.I would recommend this product but, be forewarned, assembly may be rough.

6. It works! Assembly is a bit challenging. Bought this as a first compost tumbler to see if they work. The smaller size and the divided tumbler were pluses for me. There are a lot of parts and many, many screws, washers and nuts but the assembly is straight forward. Have been slowly filling the tumbler with coffee grounds and shredded paper (junk mail) with some water. Have also been giving it a few turns whenever I get close. The contents are looking a bit more like healthy dirt every week.

7. Great composter. We have used this bin for 18 months hanging inside the under-sink cabinet door. Works like s charm! Easy to to access, easy to clean. One design complaint to the manufacturer: the four support tabs inside the lower part of the bin can poke holes in full compost bags. If they were tapered at the top, it would prevent this.

8. Awesome Value, Almost Perfect. Let me tell you about the Geobin compost bin – it’s a real gem for anyone looking to get into composting without breaking the bank.First off, this thing is a steal. It’s one of the cheapest options out there, which is great if you’re just dipping your toes into the composting world or if you’re trying to be a bit more eco-friendly on a budget.Setting it up? A piece of cake. Even if you’ve never composted before, you’ll have this up and running in no time. It comes with these nifty interlocking keys that let you adjust the size to fit your needs.Speaking of size, this bin is like Mary Poppins’ bag – it holds way more than you’d think! We’re talking up to 246 gallons. Whether you’ve got a tiny city garden or a sprawling suburban yard, the Geobin’s got you covered.One thing I really love is how well it breathes. It’s got these clever little holes all over that keep the air flowing. Trust me, your neighbors will thank you – no stinky compost here!Now, let’s talk durability. This isn’t some flimsy plastic that’ll fall apart after one season. The Geobin is made of tough stuff that can handle whatever Mother Nature throws at it. You’ll be using this for years to come.Is it perfect? Well, not quite. It could use a few more clips to keep everything in place, especially when you’re dealing with a full load. But honestly, that’s a small gripe for an otherwise fantastic product.All in all, if you’re looking to start composting or upgrade your current setup, the Geobin is a solid choice. It’s easy to use, built to last, and won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Happy composting!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

9. No More Fruit Flies. This counter-top “garbage bowl” is perfect for collecting vegetable and fruit scraps. It’s super easy to clean. And the best part is no more fruit flies — in my warm and humid climate, where fruit flies are abundant! If fruit fly eggs start to appear, then I just spritz the bottom and top of the container with a fruit fly spray (Zevo brand) and that does the trick.The box of liners are a perfect match for it — large enough to tie up with a double knot after the container is full, and they keep my regular kitchen trash container from getting super messy before collection day. (I do wrap meat scraps separately in old paper towels though before discarding, so that my larger weekly trash bin won’t stink.)

10. PERFECT FOR COLLECTING MY COMPOST. I cannot rave enough about this compost bin!!! It doesn’t stink up the house. Is easy to clean after using. Looks good sitting on my counter, so it is handy to use. Would also work well under the sink, if you didn’t have room on your counter.

11. Nice fit and easy cleanup. The media could not be loaded.  The two way lid makes tossing compostables easy. It was easy to install on the side of our kitchen counter and is out of the way and in a convenient spot for use. Perfect size for day to day use. It comes with a roll of compost bags. Easy lid removal for replacing bags and so far no smells have come through when food waste sits for a day.

12. Perfect for composting. This item I love because I will be able to make great food for my gardens. This concept is great as it allows for keeping the compost mixed well. You have to put this together and that is somewhat of a challenge. The item looks smaller than it actually is. It is pretty large, but I am happy with it. It’s a little bit of a challenge to put together, they provide a screwdriver as a tool, but I used a powered screwdriver and it helped aid in the putting together of the item.

13. Perfect Compost Bin for Everyday Use. I love the OXO Good Grips Composter! It’s so easy to open, even when my hands are full, which is super convenient when cooking. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the smooth interior, and I haven’t had any issues with lingering smells. It contains odors really well, even when left for a few days. The design is sleek and compact, fitting perfectly on my kitchen counter without being an eyesore. Overall, it’s a well-made, functional compost bin that makes kitchen composting effortless. Highly recommend!

14. Cute and Functional. Lightweight, easy to clean, keeps fruit flies and odor out

15. Great looking, functional compost bucket. We’ve been using this for about 6 months. No sign of rust. It has held up well. I do use compostable bag liners inside to keep it cleaner and for ease of dumping the compost scraps. This Bucket looks so much better than the plastic bin we were using. The charcoal filter is washable and aids with any odors which might develop.

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