Having a countertop compost bin can be a convenient and stress-free way to limit your food waste. On one hand, it’s like having a small trash can. However, if stored in the wrong place, it can be a smelly fixture in your kitchen. The same rule applies to your outdoor pile or bin; picking where you place it can make or break the health of your compost.
Sunlight and heat are a few factors you should consider when it comes to compost bin placement. Wherever you choose to keep your indoor or outdoor compost bin, just make sure to keep it smell-free.
Opt for the fridge or freezer — trust us
It may sound strange, but one of the best places to store your indoor compost bin is not on the counter — it’s in the freezer. By keeping it in somewhere cold, you are slowing down its decomposition, which also helps reduce unpleasant odors. This is a great option for people who live in apartments without an outdoor compost bin, or those who use a compost pick up service.
To optimize your freezer space, pick a slim option with a lid like this OXO compost bin. If you want an tried-and-true cheap option, store your compost in gallon Ziploc bags to best fit your freezer. It may not be the prettiest option, but it’s better than a smelly compost.
Try under the sink
We can understand if keeping the compost bin on the counter or in the freezer gives you the ick. This is why keeping it under the sink is a great solution. Not only does it hide a potential eyesore, but it also can conceal any lingering smells from your compost. It also is a convenient place when food prepping — just put your food scraps in a bowl and empty it under the sink.
Keep it out of direct sunlight
While you can keep your outdoor compost bin in direct sunlight, it’s recommended to place it somewhere in the shade. While a nice sunny spot can make your compost decompose faster, it can also severely dry it out (via Milorganite). When the compost is too dry, it can kill the healthy microorganisms that help break down the compost. If you only have full sun in your yard, be sure to regularly check the compost’s moisture and water when needed.
The same goes for your indoor compost bin— full sun is not your friend. It’s best to keep it in a dark or shaded part of your house, definitely not near a bright window or on a sunny part of the kitchen island. Especially since, when something gets hot, it usually starts to smell.
Keep your compost pile away from the house
Whether you have a compost bin or old-fashioned pile, it’s important to keep it away from your house. It will reduce odors near your living space, and also prevents animals from messing with your compost. It’s also best to put your compost pile specifically away from trees as their roots could interfere with it. The best spot in your yard is a well-drained section near your garden and a water source, such as a hose or rain barrels.