Top 10 Best Compost Bin: 2023 Reviews & Buying Guide

Compost can be understood as an easy way to convert scraps from everyday trash into garden gold. It is also one of the simplest ways to reduce daily waste from a household. Composting is an easy task, needs minimal effort from your end, and can be done both outdoors as well as indoors. This process is also very beneficial for the gardeners as composting can be a great way to fill the soil with rich nutrients for the plants. To get started with composting, one does not need a whole yard. It can be started merely using a compost bin.

We teamed up with professional gardeners and farmers to help us find the best compost bin available in 2023. We have also included a comprehensive buying guide along wherein we have listed the different types of compost bins, factors to consider before buying one, and the advantages as well as disadvantages of a compost bin. The guide also includes some frequently asked questions (FAQs) by the users for your reference.

Top 10 Best Compost Bin in 2023

Composting food waste and yard trash would not only help in reducing waste but also help you in transforming the kitchen scraps into fertile and rich soil. One needs to find a compost bin that works perfectly for their home. It can be difficult and confusing to figure out the correct model according to your requirement. However, to save your time, with the help of backyard gardeners we have put together a list of the top 10 compost bins in 2023. We are sure you would be able to find the perfect one for yourself by the end.

1 – Composting Tumbler Bin and Compost Tea Maker by Envirocycle

The Composting Tumbler Bin and Compost Tea Maker by Envirocycle is one of the most beautiful and appealing compost tumblers in the market. One can get it in two different colors- black and hot pink. The holding capacity of this compost bin can be 17 or 35 gallons. This compost bin is made from food-grade materials and can even resist harsh UV rays. It is an excellent option for people who are looking for a good-looking tumbler with stringent HOA policies.

Envirocycle’s Compost Tea Maker is a versatile composter as it can produce both solid and liquid compost. The bin is aesthetically beautiful and would surely look stunning in the outdoor space of a home. It features a circular design that has a large opening, making it easy to load and unload compost in it. The high-quality and premium compost tea maker is made in the USA and adheres to the highest standards. It does not need to be assembled as it comes ready to use. It has a sturdy and durable solid tank construction, which helps in insulating the heat inside, which fastens the composting process.

Key Features

• Produces both solid and liquid composite
• Appealing and beautiful design
• Resistant to rust and BPA free
• Made from UV and antioxidant protected material
• No assembly required
• Made in the USA

Pros

• Has a stable base
• Comes in two color options: black and pink
• Resistant to UV and rust
• Durable construction
• Easy to use
• Good customer service

Cons

• Price is on the higher side

2 – Composter Tumbler by Jora

The Composter Tumbler by Jora is an insulated tumbling composter that is more suitable for cold climates. This large composter has a capacity of 70 gallons and measures 44” x 28” x 52”. The composter is also available in a capacity of 106gallonsand goes well for suburban yards. It is made from galvanized sheet metal that is resistant to rust and thus can last for several years, even in rains. These composter tumblers also come with the powder-coated barrel and a wall mount kit for convenience.

This composter tumbler has a 2.16-inch of polyethylene plastic, which helps in trapping the heat inside and keeps the composter insulated. Thus, it can produce high-quality compost even during the cold season. The dual-chamber design of the compost bin helps in creating a continuous and premium quality stream of compost throughout the year. There are also locks on both the doors, which helps in keeping squirrels, raccoons, and other types of animals from getting inside the bin. So, this is the best compost bin for people who want to process organic material throughout the year.

Key Features

• It has a capacity of 70 gallons
• Dual-chamber composter
• Made from galvanized sheet metal
• Comes with wall mount kit
• It has a powder-coated barrel

Pros

• Good composting capacity
• Comes with a wall-mount
• Sturdy and heavy-duty construction
• Can resist rust and corrosion
• Smooth rotation for efficient aeration
• Easy to use and operate

Cons

• Price is on the higher side
• Can be hard to assemble

3 – Stainless Steel Compost Bin by Utopia Kitchen

The Utopia brand is well-known for manufacturing classic and high-quality products. The compost bin by Utopia Kitchen is a sturdy, sleek, and elegant build that is sure to complement your kitchen. Since it comes with an in-built charcoal filter, it can easily keep away any foul smell or odor, keeping the kitchen fresh and smelling crisp. This filter also ensures that there is no bacteria build-up or chemical leech because of the compost bin. The bin is made from stainless steel, which makes it quite durable and long-lasting. Thus, it wouldn’t scratch, chirp, or crack easily.

This compost bin by Utopia is straightforward to clean as it needs only soap and water to be cleaned. The bin comes with a capacity of 1.3 gallons, which means that you can store it easily at your countertop or any small place. It caters to all the waste needs safely and healthily. It also comes with a tight-fitting lid, which makes it quite suitable if you are looking for excellent performance and long-lasting compost bin. Since it is light in weight and small in size, it is a perfect option for the kitchen and is also easy to move around or store.

It also comes with a carrying handle, which makes it easy to lift and carry the compost bin. It will also not occupy much space while storing it.

Key Features

• Made from stainless steel
• Good and sturdy design
• Lightweight tool
• Contains charcoal filter to control odor

Pros

• Convenient handle
• Sturdy construction
• Value for money
• Easy to clean
• Traps and controls odor

Cons

• Might feel large for countertops

4 – Tumbling Composter by FCMP Outdoor

The FCMP Outdoor Tumbling Composter would solve your problem of growing piles of leftovers and scraps easily. This compost bin has a capacity of a huge 37 gallons, which makes it easy to mix any kind of compost material in it. One does not have to dig and mix the compost material with bare hands. If provided the right conditions, thus tumbling compost bin can complete the whole process of decomposition within two weeks. The bin is made from recycled polypropylene, which is BPA-free and would not deteriorate under the harmful rays of the sun.

The compost bin comes with two chambers, which means that you can throw the fresh material into one chamber while the other chamber would break down the old material into compost. You only have to turn the tumbler six times every 2-3 days for producing healthy fertilizer. Additionally, the compost bin is also corrosion-resistant as it has a galvanized steel frame. There are also adjustable air vents along with some deep fins that help in breaking the clumps in the compost bin chamber. Overall, this compost bin is a durable tumbler that is made with 100% recycled polypropylene.

Key Features

• 8-sided dual compost chamber
• Durable construction
• BPA-free and UV inhibited
• Galvanized steel frame
• Good tumbling design
• The capacity of 37 gallons

Pros

• It has uninterrupted composting
• Easy to add and remove scraps
• Easy to use
• Proper aeration with air vents
• Doesn’t degrade under direct sunlight

Cons

• The sliding door might freeze during winter
• Some people might find it difficult to assemble

5 – Soil Saver Classic Compost bin by Algreen

TheAlgreensoil saver compost bin is a BPA-free unit that is made from 100% recycled and environment-friendly material. The material used in manufacturing this compost bin is durable and thick, which makes it quite sturdy. The strength of the compost bin ensures durability while the thickness of the unit ensures perfect insulation inside the bin. The heat from the insulation assists the microorganisms in breaking down the compost quickly and easily. There is also a large opening at the side of the compost bin, which helps in increasing air circulation and speeds up the process of composting.

Additionally, this compost bin by Algreen also features top doors that can lock the compost securely, keeping animals away from the compost and prevents them from entering the bin. It also comes with two knobs for locking the unit, which ensures the complete security of the bin. There are also two sliding doors at the bottom of the bin, which makes it easy to remove the compost once it is done. The compost bin measures 12.6 cubic feet and can create compost that is dark and nutrient-rich within eight weeks. It is also affordably priced, making it a favored choice for many.

Key Features

• Produces dark compost in 6 to 8 weeks
• Made from 100% environment-friendly material
• Locking, self-watering lid
• BPA-free; robust construction
• Has a large opening and two sliding doors

Pros

• Makes nutrient-rich and organic dark humus
• Environment-friendly design
• Affordably priced
• The large opening ensures proper aeration
• Has a tight lid to prevent animals
• Breaks down waste at a faster speed

Cons

• There might be lid fitting issues
• Many people have complained of missing parts

6 – Compost Tumbler by Lifetime

The Compost Tumbler by Lifetime is an efficient and lightweight compost bin that has a capacity of 65 gallons. It is easy to mix the material inside the compost bin. The tumbler features an internal aeration bar, which helps in mixing the compost properly and enhances airflow. This compost bin is made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which makes it quite sturdy and strong. The tumbler is UV-protected and has double-walled panels for absorbing and retaining heat. Generally, this makes the composting process very fast. It is a strong and durable product that is also light on the pocket.

The Lifetime tumbler also comes with an extra-large lid that can be removed when needed. There is also a spring-loaded pin for locking the rotation of the compost bin. The compost bin is available in only a single color, i.e., black and has a galvanized steel base. It is also effortless to assemble while being budget-friendly. The product comes with a free DVD which contains clear and specific instructions on how to use the compost bin at home and which all waste materials to throw in it.

Key Features

• Has a capacity of 65 gallons
• Made from high-density polythene
• Powder-coated with steel
• Single tumbler design
• Contains double-walled panels
• Has an internal bar for mixing the compost
• Extra-large removable lid

Pros:

• Value for money
• Has a great compost holding capacity
• Made from high-density plastic
• Comes with clear instructions
• Easy to use and turn

Cons

• It can be time-consuming to assemble all the parts

7 – Senior Wizard Dual Tumbler Compost Bin by Good Ideas

The Senior Dual Tumbler Compost Bin by Good Ideas is a tumbler with a considerable capacity that gives a quick and efficient performance. This bin is crafted using recycled polythene that is FDA approved and free from BPA. It is manufactured in the USA and weighs only 28 lbs. Good Ideas compost bin is a lightweight unit that can hold a tremendous amount of yard and household waste due to its dual-chamber design. These chambers have a capacity of 5.5 cubic feet each, i.e., they can hold 41 gallons easily. It means that the compost bin has a total capacity of more than 80 gallons, which makes it suitable for large households.

The Good Ideas compost bin is crafted using black plastic that enhances its heat absorption ability. It also features substantial grab bars along with recessed handles, resulting in better leverage and smoother rotation. The bin comes with two large chambers for composting, which means that you would not have to wait for one batch to get over before you can add more composting material. There are also large twist lids that can lock away odor while preventing animals from entering the compost bin. It also comes fully assembled and has a durable construction.

Although the price of this compost bin might feel a bit on the higher side, however, it is worth every penny. The vast capacity, along with its ability to handle a high volume of waste, makes it an excellent choice for beginners as well as experts.

Key Features

• Dual-chamber design
• The capacity of 11 cubic foot
• Comes fully assembled
• Made from FDA approved material
• Made in the USA

Pros

• Easy to move around
• Value for money
• Easy to operate and turn
• Fast and functional
• Good customer service

Cons

• The design of the product is not up to the mark

8 – Compost Bin by Redmon Since 1883

The Redmon compost bin is a great choice if you are looking for a large capacity compost bin. The bin has a capacity of 65gallons, which is perfect for holding a large amount of food and other waste. It comes with four doors that are easy to access. Generally, this helps in adding and removing the compost material quickly. It also features ventilation holes on all sides for proper airflow and quick composting. It also has a removable lid for adding more material easily. The high-quality compost bin is resistant to high-impact UV rays and can last for several years.

This tumbler is made from UV and weather-resistant plastic, which makes it quite sturdy. It is also BPA and phthalate-free and comes with ventilation holes that ensure proper aeration inside the compost bin. There is also a convenient lift-off lid for adding more composting material with ease.

The compost bin by Redmon is a traditional unit that can handle vast quantities of leaves, kitchen waste, trimmings as well as other compostable material easily. Generally, this is the simplest solution to your composting needs. It comes without a bottom, making it sit directly on the soil. Furthermore, this makes it a perfect option for outdoor composting use. You can add fresh food to this compost bin regularly so that the worm farms present inside can break down the material efficiently and quickly. So, this will also ensure that the worms stay inside the compost bin and do not seep down into the soil for more food.

Key Features

• Made from UV and weather-resistant plastic
• Convenient lift-off lid
• Comes with ventilation holes
• Heavy-duty construction
• BPA and Phthalate-free

Pros

• Easy and durable
• Perfect deal for the price
• Easy to assemble
• Good for beginners
• Good composting capacity

Cons

• Flimsy and cheap construction

9 – Dual Body Tumbling Composter by FCMP Outdoor

The tumbling composter by Hot Frog is a good option for owners that have a small lawn or garden. The most prominent feature of this tumbler is its two independent compartments. The compost bin is made from high-quality plastic and has a total capacity of 37 gallons that is equally divided into the two chambers. This feature is great to have if you want to make different types of compost. The kind of material that you put into compost would decide how much tumbling is required.

This compost bin is made from high-quality plastic that is resistant to UV rays as well as harsh weather conditions such as rains or intense sunlight. Since the tumbler comes with two compartments, it is quite easy to turn as the weight is equally divided between the chambers. The tumbler comes with large openings and ergonomic handholes for ease of use. It has a galvanized steel frame and is resistant to corrosion. The compost bin is also BPA-free and UV inhibited.

The time required for composting depends upon what kind of ingredients you put inside the bin. It can vary anywhere between two to four weeks. Although the price of this unit is on the higher side, it is a complete value for money package.

Key Features

• Comes with large openings
• Includes removable doors
• Ergonomic handholes
• BPA free and UV inhibited
• Has a galvanized steel frame
• Corrosion-resistant

Pros

• Affordably priced
• Easy and quick to assemble
• Sturdy and well-built composter
• Easy to use and turn
• High-quality and sturdy construction

Cons

• It has small openings

10 – Compost Bin by GEOBIN

The Geobin Compost Bin is a simple and affordable compost bin that has an appealing look. It is quite versatile and can handle a massive volume of household and yard waste with ease. It is a budget-friendly unit that is made from 50% recycled polyethylene plastic while weighing only 8 lbs. While this compost bin is light in weight, it has one of the largest capacities as compared to other worm compost bins. The capacity of this expandable compost bin can go as high as 216 gallons. The capacity of this compost bin is expandable by 4 feet.

The grid design of this compost bin ensures optimum airflow as well as heat retention. It comes with closure keys making it entirely safe for use even with kids around. The unit is easy to assemble thanks to the six fasteners that are easy to use. These fasteners help in holding the sides together. The lightweight and portable design of the unit makes it easy to move around. So, this is one of the best buys if you are looking for a high-quality tumbler with considerable capacity. It is ideally suited for both beginners as well as experts.

Key Features

• Made with 50% recycled plastic
• Comes with closure keys
• The large capacity is expandable to 4 feet
• Designed for good aeration
• Suitable for beginners as well as experts

Pros

• Easy to move around
• Can ventilate well
• Simple to setup
• Portable and light in weight
• Easy to use

Cons

• The composter is fragile and may not be able to stand in high winds

Best Compost Bin Buying Guide

An investment in a compost bin is a significant step towards helping out not only your family but also the environment. It can break down the unwanted waste from the kitchen as well as the yard into nutrient-rich fertilizers for the plants. There are several models and brands to choose from.

In this comprehensive buying guide, we would be discussing in detail about compost bins, its types, and the factors to be considered before buying one. We have also included the advantages and disadvantages of a compost bin to help you make an informed choice.

What is a Compost Bin?

A compost bin is a structure that is used to collect and make compost so that it can be used again in the garden. Compost bins are designed such that they can enhance the decomposition process of the organic material with the help of proper ventilation and moisture retention. This combination of moisture and air create the perfect condition for improving the activity of worms and aerobic organisms. The high temperature that is created helps in transforming the organic materials to compost.

Although this same process can also take place in a compost”heap” or”pile” over time, without needing any housing, the reason for using a compost bin is that the speed of decomposition is enhanced. Depending on the type of compost bin, it is also tricky for rats, squirrels, and other kinds of animals to enter the bin and destroy your compost. If you still have rat problems we have dedicated a guide for finding the best rat poison as well.

Types of Compost Bin

There are two significant types of compost bins. These are the stationary and tumbling compost bins. Both types of compost bins are available in different sizes. You should look for a composter with a large capacity in case you want to produce more finished compost or if you have a big family.

Stationary Bins

The stationary bins or continuous bins are easy to use bins that have a large capacity. They can be open or enclosed, depending on the type. You have to put in the yard waste and scraps in the bin and wait for it to decompose. Just collect the compost once you are done. Stationary bins can be of further two types:

Covered Stationary Bins

As the name suggests, covered stationary bins come with a cover which helps in not only controlling the smell and odor but also keeps animals and rodents away from the compost bin

Uncovered Stationary Bins

These bins are easy to use. The main drawback of these bins is that it causes unpleasant odors and can attract small animals.

Tumbling Bins

A stationary bin takes a long time to produce compost. On the other hand, a tumbling bin is handy for enhancing the process of decomposition. Tumbling bins need more work and make compost in batches. These bins are best for gardeners who do not want to plan much. Tumbling bins are of further two types:

Single Tumblers

A single tumbler is the one that has a single-chambered design for putting the waste and composting.

Multiple Tumblers

Many models of tumble composters have two chambers. This particularly useful for people who are looking to create two different types of compost. It also helps in timing the compost according to different batches.

Factors To Consider Before Purchasing A Compost Bin

One needs a compost tumbler to quickly and easily transform the trash and food waste into nutrient-rich compost for the plants in your garden or lawn. A compost bin must have all the necessary features, and at the same time, it is not very expensive. One should know the factors that need to be considered before purchasing a compost bin. Some of these factors are as follows:

Capacity

The capacity of a compost bin is one of the most important factors to consider before purchasing a compost bin. While some brands have models that can handle huge capacities and can manage any load, others can handle only a small quantity of waste and scraps. In case you have a huge family and are looking to compost lawn material, newspaper shreds, food waste, and other types of waste, it is best to go for a composter that can compost huge volumes. For small households, a low capacity composter like 17 or 35 gallons would serve the purpose.

Size

The size of a compost bin is directly related to its capacity. The more the capacity of a compost bin, the bigger would be its size.A big compost bin is suitable for people who have a big yard or in case you have a big family. If you have a small yard or just want a compost bin to put on a deck or patio, it is best to go for a small-sized compost bin that occupies lesser space.

Style

Once you have decided on the size and capacity of the compost bin, it is advisable to check the style of compost bin to decide what kind of compost bin you need for your household. There are three kinds of compost bins based on the requirement. Each one of them has its advantages and disadvantages. These are as follows:

Regular Compost Bin: A basic or regular compost bin is a huge container where one can dump the household waste and scraps easily. This type of compost bin comes with lids for keeping rodents and animals out of the compost bin. These compost bins generally have a higher capacity than other types of compost bins. It is the perfect choice if you want to recycle a huge volume of waste. This type of compost bin is easy to use and helps in enhancing the natural decomposing process. The main disadvantage of this type of compost bin is that it is huge, and thus it is not suitable for people with limited space. The waste also takes more time to decompose.

Tumblers: A tumbler is a type of compost bin that applies a tumbling movement for hastening the process of composting. One also needs to ensure daily that there is enough ventilation inside the tumbler. Typically, a new batch of compost can take between 4 to 8 weeks.The tumblers are smaller in size, and hence they are more suitable for people with space restriction. Also, you cannot add new piles of waste to it once you start a new batch.

Vermi-composters: The vermicomposter is also known as worm bins. The worm factory 360 bins are more suitable for indoor gardeners who want to create just a small volume of compost indoors. Vermi-composters are the best option for people living in the city where there is very little space. This type of compost bins is outdoor bins that have a huge colony of worms and aerobic organisms.

Scraps and food waste serve as food for these red wigglers worms and help in composting the soil so that it can be used as a fertilizer for plants. It is a good alternative if you do not have a backyard. The only negative point is that they have less capacity and would not be able to handle a large amount of organic waste.

Durability

When you are out to buy a compost bin for your home, you should go for a compost bin that is of high quality and has a robust construction. So, this will ensure that the compost bin can withstand even the harsh UV and weather conditions for several years. In case you compromise on the quality, the compost bin would last only for a few years, increasing the overall cost of the compost bin in the long run. Going for a compost bin made from thick and heavy plastic or metal would be the best choice.

Material

The material from which a compost bin is made can largely determine its durability. The most common material used is recycled plastic, generally dark-colored. The dark color of the compost bin makes it great for heat absorption and prevents the loss of moisture, essential for the composting process. Many people also choose compost bins made from wood; however, one needs to ensure that the wood does not rot over time. It is also important that wood should not be pressure-treated as it can contain toxins that can leach inside the wood.

Ventilation

It is also crucial to consider that the compost bin that you choose has proper ventilation so that the compost bin remains aerated. As the worms and microorganisms present inside the compost bin have enough oxygen for their survival. In the absence of proper ventilation, the process of composting can become quite slow, resulting in a slimy mess.

Odor

Decomposing food and yard waste inside or outside your house can turn out to be quite smelly and gross. To ensure that your home or outside is not filled with unpleasant odors, it is important to ensure that the compost bin that you buy can trap odor and prevents it from spreading outside it. For this purpose, many compost bins come with filter chambers that filter out any unpleasant smell and leave a fresh odor around.

Price

A compost bin is not exactly cheap; however, if you consider the long-term savings in the form of not buying chemical fertilizers for your plants, it is quite beneficial. While you should not compromise on the quality of the compost bin, do not go for a one that does not you’re your budget. You should go for the one that strikes the perfect balance between quality and price.

Advantages of a Compost Bin

Having a compost bin at your home can have several advantages for your home as well as the environment. Some of these benefits are as follows:

1. Home and Garden Benefits

A compost bin comes with several benefits for your home and garden. These benefits have been illustrated below:

• A compost bin is quite easy to use and serves the purpose of composting efficiently.
• Using a compost bin also results in lesser garbage. It reduces wastage in the form of kitchen garbage, which also results in a lesser number of landfills and city dumps.
• Composting also helps in making your kitchen better-smelling. As all the vegetable and fruit peelings are sent to the compost bin instead of being dumped as garbage in the kitchen.
• A compost bin is an inexpensive way of composting. You also do not require any fancy equipment along with a compost bin. Since they are mostly easy to assemble, these can be done by self.
• It also helps in saving money as you do not have to pay for every garbage bag. So it can also result in a reduction in the city’s garbage cost if a good number of people start composting in their homes.
• Composting in a compost bin also helps in creating an organic and rich fertilizer for your plants. Further, it also has an economic benefit as you do not have to spend money on chemical fertilizers. When you feed plants with this naturally made compost, they also need less amount of water for their growth, also helping you in conserving water.

2. Environmental Benefits

Using a compost bin also has several environmental benefits, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. These benefits are as follows:

• There is a reduction in the number of toxins in the soil. Soils can get exposed to toxic matter like pesticides or fuels. Using natural compost in the soil converts it into healthy soil for the plants. It also prevents these contaminants from entering the water bodies nearby.
• Since composting keeps the organic matter out of landfills, the amount of methane production is reduced, which also ultimately helps in reducing pollution.
• When compost generated from compost bins are strategically placed near water or hills, they can help in reducing or eliminating soil erosion.
• It has been observed that plants and trees that are near the areas where natural compost is placed are healthier. There are also a smaller number of incidences when it comes to planting diseases and pests.
• In addition to the above, a compost bin provides natural compost that can help in reducing greenhouse gases and water pollution.

Disadvantages of a Compost Bin

While discussing in detail about a compost bin and listing out its advantages, it is also necessary to list down the disadvantages of a compost bin so that you can make an informed choice. It is essential to understand why many people do not like to take up the process of composting in their homes. Some of the disadvantages of a compost bin are as follows:

• Many people find it easier to throw the food waste and scraps away in a garbage bin rather than a compost bin. As it might be because it takes time to get used to a compost bin. People also find it an extra effort to make frequent trips to the compost bin multiple times a day. A good idea can be to collect the scraps in the refrigerator, which will limit your trips to the compost bin.
• In many cases, rodents or small animals might get inside the compost bin, especially if you do not have a lid for the compost bin. To ensure that you do not face such an issue, go for a compost bin that can prevent animals from entering the compost bin.
• The foul odor from a compost bin is another reason why many people do not prefer composting. It is essential to know that if you do compost correctly and use a compost bin that has a filtered chamber, there would be no foul odor due to composting.

Some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

Composting is a great way to convert waste into a useful thing that can protect the environment and provide the plants with nutrient-rich fertilizer.  The above list of the top 10 compost bins along with the comprehensive buying guide would help you in choosing the perfect compost bin according to your requirements.