Create a Mini Compost Bin for Apartment Living

Why Compost in an Apartment?

Composting in an apartment helps reduce landfill waste, creates nutrient-rich soil for plants, and minimizes your carbon footprint. It’s a simple way to live sustainably, even in limited space.

• Choose a container with a lid to control odors
• Keep it small to fit under the sink or on a balcony

What You’ll Need

Gather simple materials to create your mini compost bin. Most items can be repurposed from around your home.

1. A 5-gallon bucket, plastic crate, or large container with a lid
2. Drill with small bits for aeration holes
3. Newspaper or cardboard for bedding
4. Kitchen scraps (fruit peels, coffee grounds, etc.)
5. Soil or finished compost to balance moisture

• Use a container with a dark color to prevent light exposure
• Add a charcoal filter to the lid for odor control

Step-by-Step Setup

Follow these easy steps to assemble your mini compost bin and start composting.

1. Drill small holes in the bottom and sides of your container for airflow.
2. Line the bottom with a layer of newspaper or cardboard.
3. Add a handful of soil or finished compost to kickstart the process.
4. Layer kitchen scraps with dry materials like shredded paper or leaves.
5. Keep the lid on but open it occasionally to turn the contents.

• Turn the compost weekly to speed up decomposition
• Keep a small container on your countertop for daily scraps

Maintaining Your Compost

Proper maintenance ensures your compost stays odor-free and breaks down efficiently.

1. Balance green (wet) materials like fruit peels with brown (dry) materials like paper.
2. Keep the compost slightly moist, like a wrung-out sponge.
3. Avoid adding meats, dairy, or oily foods to prevent odors.

• Freeze scraps temporarily to reduce smell before adding
• Use a small hand trowel to mix the compost easily

Using Your Compost

Once your compost is dark and crumbly, it’s ready to use! Here’s how to make the most of it.

1. Sift the compost to separate fine material from larger chunks.
2. Mix it into potting soil for indoor plants or balcony gardens.
3. Use it as a top dressing for houseplants to boost nutrients.

• Store finished compost in a sealed container to keep it dry
• Gift excess compost to fellow plant-loving neighbors