Are you a home composter or participate in a local organic waste program? Then you know how messy food scraps can be…. scraps piling up, leaky bins, and unpleasant odors. With a few simple tips, you can keep your kitchen clean and tidy while still being an eco-friendly composting enthusiast. Here’s how:
- Use a Compost Bin
A compost bin is essential for keeping your kitchen tidy. Choose a bin that fits well in your kitchen and has a secure lid to keep odors contained and pests out. Many local organic waste programs offer free composting bins. I use one that my city gave to me.
- Use a Liner
Lining your compost bin with a compostable liner is the best way to reduce mess. Liners help contain liquids or scraps that could leak or spill. When it's time to empty the bin, you can lift out the liner, reducing the chances of drips or spills. Be sure to use liners made from 100% paper no bioplastics, bioplastics leave behind microplastics that contaminate compost even when they are “certified compostable”
- Ventilate Food Scraps
Proper ventilation is key to preventing odors and slowing down the decomposition process in your bin. Look for a liner and bin with built-in ventilation holes. This will allow air to circulate, reducing moisture and keeping odors at bay.
- Drain Liquids from Wet Food
Before tossing food scraps into the compost bin, drain any excess liquids from wet items like soups, coffee grounds, or fruit scraps. Too much moisture in your compost bin can lead to leaks, unpleasant smells, and mold growth.
- Empty the Bin Regularly
Empty your compost bin regularly. Allowing food scraps to sit for too long can lead to unpleasant odors, liquid buildup, and the attraction of pests. I recommend emptying every 2 to 3 days.
Composting in the kitchen doesn’t have to be messy. By following these tips you can enjoy the benefits of composting while keeping your kitchen clean and odor-free. I use EcoToss Organic Waste Bags to help keep my kitchen clean. EcoToss bags are 100% paper that is leak-resistant, tear-resistant, and ventilated to reduce odor. Happy composting!
