About Compost Pails

By Evan Williams , last updated March 24, 2011

Transporting your compost is a lot easier if you have a compost pail. Composting is a regenerative process that utilizes organic wastes to create new soil with the help of decomposers such as fungus, bacteria, and insects. The composter is the mechanism by which this process can occur. Once a fully functioning composter is set up in one’s kitchen or backyard, it's time to think about transportation of these organic wastes to the composter.

Often, wastes such as food scraps build up over time and must be stored safely in a clean and sanitary compost purgatory. Furthermore, this container must be easily transportable so as to allow for maximum comfort and convenience to and fro the composter. Thus, what is known as a “compost pail” serves these crucial functions. Fortunately for those interested in replenishing and preserving the environment, there is a wide variety of compost pails on the market that one may peruse to locate that which is most fitting to his/her composting needs.

Odor Protection

Oftentimes, it is food scraps that possess a charmingly revolting odor, such as garlic or onions, that are used in composting. Therefore, in storing such waste, a compost pail’s ability to conceal these disagreeable odors from sprawling throughout the kitchen and house is arguably the most significant contribution of a compost pail’s very existence. For the most part, any compost pail available on the market serves this basic purpose equally as efficiently as the next. The vital differences amongst compost pails are evident in other such aspects as size, physical appearance, and material.

Ceramic Compost Pail

The ceramic compost pail boasts its reputation as the most popular on the market for its reasonable price and efficiency. It comes equipped with a snug fitting lid to imprison the odors within, and even with dual charcoal filters that absorb any extraneous odor sneaking its way into the atmosphere. Furthermore, they are dishwasher safe, and are available in an array of shades and colors to suit the appliances and décor that may be surrounding it. A disadvantage, however, of the ceramic compost pail lies in its appearance with extended usage. It is not unusual for the food wastes stored within to alter the color or appearance of the ceramic from the outside, thereby imposing an eyesore. Those in the know, therefore, spring for the stainless steel compost pail to avoid this issue and even enjoy a more robust-looking appliance sturdily positioned on a kitchen counter.

Stainless Steel Compost Pail

As mentioned previously, the stainless steel compost pail is most appreciated for its ability to retain a sparkling appearance regardless of the wastes that may circulate through it. In addition, the stainless steel compost pail doesn’t rust, thereby furthering its long-term appearance sustainability. These compost pails come in a large, one-gallon size, and equipped with two charcoal filters as well as vented lids for maximum odor control.

Endurance Compost Pail

Much like the aforementioned pails, the endurance compost pail boasts replaceable charcoal filters, which are so essential in a compost pail’s odor control efficiency. What differentiates an endurance compost pail from its peers is not only its comparatively towering appearance (11 inches by 7 inches) but also its heavy-duty handle, which is most responsible for this compost pail’s appropriately titled “endurance” prefix. The sheer strength and fortitude of this endurance pail will resonate throughout one’s hand and forearm to complement the sense of worldly accomplishment that accompanies the act of composting. In order to afford an endurance pail, financially, that is, one must reach deeper into one’s pockets. Endurance compost pails will run slightly more expensive than a ceramic or stainless steel pail, yet less expensive the crown jewel of compost pails, copper finish.

Copper Finish Compost Pails

Copper Finish Compost Pails are the most lofty and expensive pails on the market for their antique appearance. Those who are particularly concerned by the visual decadence of one’s abode would be pleased by the addition of a copper finish compost pail for two reasons: its lusting yet old-fashioned appearance is a pleasure in itself, and in a most classic fashion, it will imply the existence of an environmentally conscious spirit within its owners tasteful mind. The copper finish pail also boasts two replaceable charcoal filters, like its neighbors on the shelf.

Bamboo Compost Pail

The bamboo compost pail is a popular choice among the environmentally friendliest. For those who are not completely fulfilled by composting alone, the physical make-up of a bamboo compost pail is sure to appease the admirable, nature-serving inclination of its owner. To boot, bamboo compost pails boast many of the significant features that its peers do, such as plastic lining, two replaceable sets of filters, and additional replacement filters available separately. It even serves an imposing 1-gallon capacity. Bamboo compost pails are a frugal choice, and for those kitchens comprised of more organic elements, the bamboo pail will fit in perfectly.

Odor-Free Compost Pails

Though every compost pail will ensure a certain extent of odor protection, odor-free compost pails are mounted underneath one’s kitchen sink. They are used with liners, much like trashcans, and are preferable to many for their respectable capacity (1.5 gallons) and invisibility within the kitchen. They are a certain choice for the decorative minimalist. This pail uses one charcoal filter that lasts up to three months.

In summary, there are several factors to carefully consider when in the market for compost pails. Because each compost pail is designed to, first and foremost, combat odor, this is not necessarily a function of compost pails that needs to be compared amongst the differing variety. One should assess the space in which a compost pail is to be placed, and take note of surrounding appliances, color, and decoration. Take measurements to ensure the pail will fit snugly underneath a cabinet, or in a specific corner of the countertop. Assess the kitchen’s color scheme, and perhaps consult a friend or decorator to decide which shade and pattern will be most aesthetically pleasing in one’s home. Then, consult an online internet retailer or home appliance warehouse to purchase the most sensible choice.

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