Creating rich, nutrient-dense compost is a game-changer for any backyard garden, turning kitchen scraps and yard waste into “black gold” that supercharges your soil. But with so many compost bins on the market, from simple stationary boxes to high-tech tumblers, finding the right one for your space and gardening style can feel overwhelming. The best choice depends on your available space, the amount of waste you generate, and how hands-on you want to be with the process.
This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting nine of the best compost bins available. Whether you’re a composting novice looking for a simple start or a seasoned gardener seeking a high-capacity, dual-chamber system, there’s an option here to help you reduce waste and create a continuous supply of organic fertilizer for your plants.
Our Top Picks for Backyard Compost Bins
- FCMP Outdoor HOTFROG Tumbling Composter
- Exaco AEROPLUS6000 Compost Bin
- MaxWorks 42 Gallon Dual Chamber Compost Tumbler
- Miracle-Gro Single Chamber Compost Tumbler
- Goplus 43 Gallon Dual Chamber Tumbling Composter
- Natural Home Cherry Ceramic Compost Bin
- EPICA Countertop Compost Bin Kitchen
- Compost Bin and Compost Turning Tool Combo Set
- FCMP Outdoor IM4000 Tumbling Composter
FCMP Outdoor HOTFROG Tumbling Composter
For gardeners seeking a hands-off approach to composting, the FCMP Outdoor HOTFROG is an excellent choice. Its tumbling design eliminates the need for manual digging and mixing with a pitchfork. Simply load your scraps through the large opening, close the door, and give it a few spins every couple of days. This efficient system can produce finished compost in as little as two weeks under ideal conditions.
The 37-gallon chamber is mounted on a rolling frame, providing exceptional mobility. You can easily move the composter to a sunnier spot to accelerate decomposition or roll it closer to your garden beds when it’s time to harvest the compost. Deep fins and integrated aeration holes work together to break up clumps and mix oxygen into the material, which is crucial for fast, odor-free decomposition.
Exaco AEROPLUS6000 Compost Bin
The Exaco AEROPLUS6000 offers a sophisticated, multi-chamber system that simplifies the entire composting workflow. Its three-phase design uses gravity to mix and aerate the waste as it moves from one chamber to the next, saving you the labor of turning the pile yourself. This smart design is perfect for those who want a continuous supply of compost without the physical effort of a tumbler.
This bin features a unique “active” aeration system built into its walls, which provides controlled airflow to optimize microbial activity. It also includes adjustable ventilation, allowing you to manage the internal temperature for both summer and winter conditions. This level of control helps maintain an efficient decomposition process year-round, making it a great set-and-forget option for serious composters.
MaxWorks 42 Gallon Dual Chamber Compost Tumbler
If you produce a large volume of compostable material, the MaxWorks 42-gallon dual-chamber tumbler is built to handle it. The rugged construction, made from sturdy polypropylene and a powder-coated steel frame, is designed to withstand outdoor elements for years. The dual chambers allow for a batch composting system, where you can let one side finish while adding fresh scraps to the other.
This model is designed for efficiency, with air vents and two sliding doors that help you control oxygen flow to accelerate decomposition. By simply turning the unit 5-6 times every few days, you can expect results in just 2 to 4 weeks. This composter treats garden and kitchen waste in an environmentally friendly way, turning it into high-quality soil amendment with minimal effort.
Miracle-Gro Single Chamber Compost Tumbler
The Miracle-Gro compost tumbler is designed to help you achieve a plentiful harvest by producing a constant supply of nutrient-rich compost. Its 27.7-gallon single chamber is a great size for most family gardens. The unique internal aeration system and mixing bars work to speed up decomposition, promising ready-to-use compost in just 4 to 6 weeks.
This composter makes it simple to turn food waste into garden gold. By diverting kitchen scraps from the landfill, you can actively reduce your carbon footprint while creating a powerful, natural fertilizer that your plants will love. It’s a practical solution for gardeners who want to contribute to a healthier environment and a more vibrant garden.
Goplus 43 Gallon Dual Chamber Tumbling Composter
The Goplus composter offers the convenience of two separate 43-gallon chambers, making batch composting straightforward and efficient. You can let one batch fully decompose into fertilizer while continuously adding new organic materials to the other side. This setup creates an uninterrupted flow of rich compost for your garden.
Its 360-degree tumbling design makes mixing your compost as easy as spinning a barrel. There’s no digging or manual turning required. Multiple aeration holes and deep fins inside ensure excellent air circulation, which is vital for breaking down lumps and accelerating the composting process. The black shell helps absorb solar heat, further promoting decomposition.
Natural Home Cherry Ceramic Compost Bin
For collecting kitchen scraps before taking them to your outdoor composter, the Natural Home ceramic bin is both functional and attractive. Its 1-gallon capacity is perfect for storing a day or two of fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, and eggshells. The cherry red finish and classic ceramic design allow it to blend seamlessly with your kitchen decor.
This indoor bin is made from nontoxic earthenware with a lead-free glaze, making it a safe choice for your home. It comes with an odor-preventing charcoal filter in the lid, which helps to neutralize smells while the scraps are stored on your countertop. It’s an ideal first step for anyone starting their composting journey.
EPICA Countertop Compost Bin
The EPICA stainless steel compost bin is a durable and hygienic option for your kitchen. Its 1.3-gallon capacity is spacious enough to hold several days’ worth of food scraps, yet its compact design doesn’t take up too much counter space. The sleek, one-piece molded construction is resistant to rust and leaks, making it very easy to clean.
Odor control is a key feature of this bin. The airtight lid, combined with a replaceable activated charcoal filter, works to naturally eliminate unpleasant smells. This ensures your kitchen remains fresh while you collect compostable materials. Its practical and modern design has earned recognition from several renowned lifestyle magazines.
Compost Bin and Compost Turning Tool Combo Set
This classic stationary compost bin is a straightforward and effective solution for traditional composting. The set includes both the bin and a specialized turning tool, giving you everything you need to get started. The bin features a convenient snap-on lid and four access doors, making it easy to add new material and retrieve finished compost from the bottom.
Assembly is tool-free, with simple instructions included. The multiple access doors, each measuring 13″ wide by 8″ high, provide excellent flexibility for managing your compost pile. This type of bin is perfect for gardeners who don’t mind a more hands-on approach and prefer the larger capacity and simplicity of a stationary system.
FCMP Outdoor IM4000 Tumbling Composter
The FCMP Outdoor IM4000 is another reliable tumbling composter with a 37-gallon capacity. Its rotating drum design makes mixing your compost pile a simple task, requiring just a few turns every couple of days to aerate the contents and speed up decomposition. This method is far easier than turning a stationary pile with a fork.
Like other tumblers, it features aeration holes to ensure oxygen reaches the core of the compost, which is essential for efficient breakdown and odor prevention. The large door simplifies loading and unloading, while the robust construction is built to last through many seasons of use. It’s a solid, no-fuss option for converting yard and kitchen waste into valuable fertilizer.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Compost Bins for Backyard Gardens
When I first started composting, I thought any old container would do. I quickly learned that the right bin makes a huge difference in how easy and successful the process is. Choosing from the many types of compost bins available can feel overwhelming, but focusing on a few key factors will point you in the right direction.
First, consider your capacity needs. How much kitchen and yard waste does your household produce? A single person with a small garden might do fine with a compact tumbler around 30-40 gallons. A family with a larger vegetable plot will likely need a stationary bin of 80 gallons or more. It’s better to have a little extra space than not enough, as a good pile needs mass to heat up properly.
Next, think about your physical needs and the effort you want to invest. Tumblers are fantastic because they are elevated and easy to turn with a crank, which is a major plus if you have back problems. Stationary bins, like those classic black ones, are low-cost and simple but require you to manually turn the pile with a pitchfork or aerator tool. For the ultimate low-effort approach, an in-ground compost digester simply sits in the soil, allowing you to add scraps and let worms and microbes do the work from the bottom up.
The material of the bin is another important choice. Plastic is lightweight, affordable, and retains heat and moisture well. Look for UV-resistant plastic if it will be in full sun. Wooden bins, often made from rot-resistant cedar, are aesthetically pleasing and breathable, but they can be more expensive and may break down over many years. Metal bins, typically galvanized steel, are very durable and can deter pests, but they can get quite hot in the summer sun.
Finally, don’t forget about access and aeration. How will you get the finished compost out? Tumblers usually have a large door. Many stationary bins have open bottoms or removable panels at the base for easy harvesting. Aeration is the secret to avoiding a smelly, slimy mess. Look for bins with plenty of ventilation holes or slats. Some designs include built-in aeration sticks or poles that you can move around to create air channels. Good airflow means you’ll get that rich, earthy compost much faster. By thinking about these factors—capacity, effort, material, and aeration—you can find one of the best compost bins for backyard gardens that fits your specific lifestyle and space.
FAQ
What should I not put in my compost bin?
It’s just as important to know what to leave out as what to put in. I avoid adding meat, bones, fish, and dairy products because they can attract pests and create odors. Oily or greasy foods are also a no-go. Don’t compost pet waste from cats or dogs, as it can contain harmful pathogens. While you can compost some paper, avoid glossy or colored inks. And of course, never add any plants that are diseased or have been treated with herbicides, as this can spread problems back into your garden.
How long does it take to make compost?
This is the most common question, and the answer is, it depends on your method. A well-maintained, actively turned pile in a tumbler can produce compost in as little as four to eight weeks during the warm season. A passive, stationary bin that you just add to and let sit might take six months to a year. The key factors are the balance of materials, aeration, moisture, and temperature. Chopping your scraps into smaller pieces and turning the pile regularly will always speed up the process significantly.
Why is my compost pile smelly?
A healthy compost pile should have a pleasant, earthy smell. If yours smells like rotten eggs or ammonia, it’s usually a sign that something is out of balance. A rotten egg smell often means the pile is too wet and doesn’t have enough air. Try turning it to introduce more oxygen and adding some dry, brown materials like shredded cardboard or dry leaves. An ammonia smell usually indicates too much green material, like fresh grass clippings. Adding more browns will help balance the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio and fix the issue.
Can I compost if I have a small yard or live in an apartment?
Absolutely! You don’t need a huge space to compost. For very small patios or balconies, a compact tumbler or a small, lidded stationary bin works well. If you’re indoors, you can try vermicomposting, which uses a special bin with worms to process your kitchen scraps. This method is odorless when done correctly and is a fantastic way to create nutrient-rich compost even in an apartment setting. There are many compact options that fit neatly under a sink or in a utility closet.
Do I need to add a compost starter?
In my experience, a commercial compost starter is not necessary. A handful of finished compost or good garden soil from your yard works just as well because it’s already teeming with the right microorganisms to get the process going. The most important “starter” is having a good mix of green and brown materials from the beginning. If your pile is slow to start, ensure it’s moist like a wrung-out sponge and has enough volume to heat up.