If you’re anything like me and don’t have a massive backyard, or maybe you’re just not out there every day, but you still want to cut down on waste, you might be wondering how to compost indoors.
Composting is a fantastic way to reduce waste, decrease your carbon footprint, and create nutrient-rich soil for your plants. While many people associate composting with backyard bins, did you know that you can also compost indoors?
Whether you live in an apartment, have limited outdoor space, or simply want to make composting more convenient, indoor composting is a great option. In this article, we will explore the best practices for composting indoors.
Why Compost Indoors?
Indoor composting offers several benefits, including:
Year-round composting
With indoor composting, you can compost throughout the year, regardless of the weather conditions outside. This allows you to maintain a sustainable lifestyle consistently.
The Convenience of Choosing to Compost Indoors
Indoor composting lets you conveniently compost your kitchen scraps without frequent trips to an outdoor compost bin. It’s especially advantageous for those living in apartments or condos where outdoor composting can be challenging.
Compost Indoors Without the Odor
By composting indoors, you have more control over the composting process, including managing odor. With proper maintenance, indoor composting can be virtually odor-free.
High-quality compost
With indoor composting, you have better control over the composting conditions, allowing you to create high-quality compost faster. This compost can then be used to enrich your indoor plants, or balcony garden, or donated to community gardens.
Now, let’s dive into the best practices for successful indoor composting:
How to Compost Indoors
Choose the right container to Compost Indoors
Look for a kitchen compost container specifically designed for indoor use. Options such as countertop compost bins or compost pails with charcoal filters effectively control odors. Consider the size of your household and the amount of waste you generate to determine the appropriate container size.
What to put in a compost bin
When it comes to gathering materials you are allowed to compost, add kitchen scraps like fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, tea bags (minus the label), and eggshells. And don’t stop there – grab some shredded newspaper, cardboard, and even those used paper towels. And if you’ve got any old flowers or trimmings from your indoor plants, toss those in too! Your compost will thank you for the variety.
What not to put in a compost bin
You should avoid dumping any meat, dairy, and oily foods. They attract pests and slow down the composting process. Also, skip adding any diseased plants or weeds with seeds. Likewise, keep out any pet waste as they can attract pests or produce unpleasant odors.
Avoid overloading
Be mindful of the amount of waste you add to your indoor compost bin. Overloading can lead to slow decomposition and odors. Aim for a balance of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials. Add a layer of brown material, like shredded paper or dried leaves, with each addition of food scraps.
Keep it moist
Composting requires moisture to facilitate decomposition. Ensure your compost bin is sufficiently moist, but not overly wet. Use a spray bottle to add water if needed, aiming for a damp, sponge-like texture. Avoid making the compost too soggy as it can lead to anaerobic conditions.
Anaerobic conditions happen when there’s not enough oxygen present, leading to unpleasant odors. This occurs due to the anaerobic breakdown of organic matter, which produces smelly compounds like hydrogen sulfide and ammonia. Additionally, the decomposition process slows down significantly, meaning your compost won’t break down as efficiently. Overall, it turns your compost bin into a stinky and sluggish mess.
Aerate regularly
Stir or turn the compost regularly to promote airflow and prevent compacting. This allows beneficial microorganisms to thrive and speeds up the composting process. Some compost bins come with built-in mechanisms or handles, making it easy to turn the contents.
Manage odor
To control odors, avoid adding large quantities of strongly scented food waste in one go. Cover each layer of food scraps with a layer of brown material, and ensure a tight-fitting lid on your compost container. Additionally, consider adding a layer of baking soda or carbon filters to absorb odors.
Monitor and adjust
Keep an eye on your compost to ensure the ideal conditions. If you notice an unpleasant smell, adjust the moisture level or add more brown material. If it’s too dry, mist it with water; if it’s too wet, add more brown material and aerate.
Harvest the compost
Once the composting process is complete, typically after a couple of months, you’ll have rich, dark compost ready for use. Harvest the compost by removing the finished material from the bottom of the compost bin. Use it to feed your indoor plants or mix it with potting soil for added nutrients.
Get started with indoor composting today for a more sustainable lifestyle and contribute to the well-being of the planet. With the best practices and the equipment mentioned above, you can easily learn how to compost indoors and positively impact the environment.
Happy composting!
