Compost Bin Buying Guide

Standard Composter

This is your basic run-of-the-mill composter, kept outside, that will typically sell for around $100. With a standard composter, it is easy to use and store a large capacity of compost at once. On the down side, standard composters are harder to keep aerated, which is a key feature especially if one is composting thicker waste.

Something one may consider, then, as an accessory to standard composters is a “Compost Aerator Tool,” which may be purchased for as cheap as $20. An aerator tool is thrust into the center of a compost pile as many times as necessary to properly circulate the waste and activate faster decomposition.

Compost Tumbler

A compost tumbler reduces the necessity of a compost aerator tool, as it mixes compost on its own quite efficiently. The catch, however, is in price – compost tumblers typically run for about $180, and will increase in price with every increase in size (by the gallon).

Reasonably priced compost tumblers do not boast the capacity of standard tumblers, though they do aerate more efficiently, and aerating compost is arguably the most significant aspect of the entire process. In choosing between a standard composter and a compost tumbler, one should consider how much time might be spent in composting activity. If a large amount of time may be allowed, then the more frugal option in a standard composter would be wise. If one is pressed for time, a compost tumbler will allow time convenience.

Indoor Composters

For one without a yard, indoor composters allow for safe and manageable composting inside the luxury of one’s home. Indoor composters even come in electric models. With these luxuries, however, is inevitably a price increase. Indoor composters will run for about $300, again, depending on size, and will typically have less capacity than standard composters or compost tumblers. Though effective, they will undoubtedly be more time consuming and even less efficient.

If one has no other options, however, indoor composters will do the trick. In shopping for a composter and deciding between brands, however, one should remember that Bokashi models require burying finished materials to complete the composting process.

Pet Composters

One of the best and cleanest ways to keep a yard free of a pet’s droppings is to utilize a pet composter. Pet composters are relatively cheap (approximately $60), and suitable for two large dogs or up to four dogs. Please note: pet composters only work with dog droppings; cat droppings require purchase and maintenance of a comfortable and homey litter box.

Pet droppings cannot be included with any other composters, and so a pet composter is a wise choice for anyone whose pet takes full advantage of the backyard.

Once you choose which type of composter is best for your situation, all that’s left to do is to start composting. Your garden will thank you.