A Practical Guide on How to Compost Kitchen Waste in Apartments

I’ll admit-Every time I tossed kitchen scraps into the trash, I felt a pang of guilt.Yet, the thought of managing smells, bugs, or high costs kept me from trying composting.

Can you relate? Don’t worry—composting in an apartment can be simple, affordable, and even fun.

In this blog, we would talk about simple ways to How to Compost Kitchen Waste in Apartments.

As Rebecca Louie, author of Compost City, puts it, “When done properly, composting is easy, doesn’t smell bad, can be discreet and is a lot of FUN.” 

With organic waste making up nearly 60% of landfills and contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, learning how to compost in an apartment is a powerful step toward sustainability.

Ready to turn your kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich compost? Let’s begin!

Step-1: Find the Best Composting Method for Kitchen Waste

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to composting. Here are a few options to suit your apartment lifestyle:

1. DIY Indoor Compost Bin

If you’re looking for a low-cost, creative way to compost, try a DIY indoor bin:

• Materials: A large plastic bucket or planter with a lid, a drill, and some cardboard.
• Ventilation: Drill small holes in the lid and sides to allow airflow—essential for proper composting.
• Setup: Line the bottom with shredded cardboard or newspaper for drainage.

This setup is compact, effective, and perfect for those who enjoy hands-on projects.

2- Get a Ready-Made Compost Bin

If DIY isn’t your thing, purchasing a pre-made indoor compost bin might be the perfect solution. Here’s a handy comparison of a few options:

• Compost Tumbler

  Pros: Odorless, easy to turn, and generates heat efficiently.

  Con: Requires some outdoor space.

• Countertop Composter

  Pros: Compact and processes waste quickly.

  Con: Limited capacity.

• Barnyard Designs Compost Bin

  Pros: Smell-absorbing filters and an inner bucket for easy cleaning.

  Con: Low capacity.

Pro Tip– Look for bins with odor-control filters for a hassle-free experience.

3- Vermicomposting – Let Worms Do the Work

Vermicomposting is a fantastic option for those willing to embrace the idea of worms. This method uses red wigglers to break down food scraps and create nutrient-rich castings. 

While it’s highly effective, it can be intimidating for those squeamish about worms.

If that’s you, don’t worry!  There are plenty of other options for composting in apartments without worms.

Other Composting Options to Consider

• Bokashi Composting: Uses fermentation to pre-treat food scraps. However, it requires an additional step to complete the composting process.
• Electric Composters: Convenient and fast but use electricity, which may not align with eco-friendly goals.

Step 2: Choose the Right Spot for Your Kitchen Compost Bin

Choosing the right location makes composting in an apartment easier and more efficient. Look for spaces that are convenient yet discreet:

• Under the Sink: Close enough for daily use, out of sight for a tidy kitchen.
• On the Balcony: A sunny spot can help speed up decomposition.
• Freezer Collection: Store scraps in the freezer until you’re ready to add them to the bin.

“If you don’t have a place to put food scraps when you’re in the middle of chopping fruits and veg, they’ll probably end up in the trash,” says Lauresa Larson, co-founder of Black Thumb Garden Club. 

Step: 3 Balance Green and Brown Composting Materials

• • Greens (Nitrogen-rich): Fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and eggshells.
    • Chop and Layer: Cut food scraps into small pieces for quicker decomposition. Alternate layers of greens and browns like a composting lasagna.
    • Avoid Stickers: Remove produce stickers as they don’t break down in compost.Browns (Carbon-rich): Dried leaves, cardboard, and shredded paper.
      

       

      Tips for Success:

    • Chop and Layer: Cut food scraps into small pieces for quicker decomposition. Alternate layers of greens and browns like a composting lasagna.
    • Avoid Stickers: Remove produce stickers as they don’t break down in compost.The secret to smell-free, effective composting lies in maintaining the right balance of:

Check out this infographic on composting materials for a handy guide!

Step 4: Manage Moisture and Aeration in Your Apartment Compost

Moisture and airflow are essential for composting success. Follow these steps:

• Control Moisture: If your compost is too wet, add dry leaves or paper. Too dry? Add a splash of water.
• Aerate Regularly: Stir the pile weekly to introduce oxygen and speed up decomposition.
• Leachates: Remove excess liquid (leachate) to prevent odor and maintain balance.

“Air and moisture are key to the biological activity needed to breakdown organic matter… Regular turning is key to speeding up the composting process.” —Jez Taylor, Head of Market Garden at Daylesford Organic Farm

Step 5: Using Your Finished Compost

Once your compost looks dark, crumbly, and has an earthy smell, it’s ready to use! Here are a few ideas:

• Feed Your Plants: Mix it into potting soil for a nutrient boost.
• Start a Balcony Garden: Grow your own herbs, veggies, or flowers.
• Share with the Community: Donate to local gardens or green spaces.

Troubleshooting Common Apartment Composting Problems

• Odors: Add more browns (dry materials) to absorb moisture and balance nitrogen levels.
• Pests: Use a bin with a tight-fitting lid and avoid adding meat or dairy scraps.
• Slow Decomposition: Chop scraps into smaller pieces and stir the pile weekly for better aeration.

Conclusion

Composting isn’t about doing it perfectly. It’s about making small steps toward a more sustainable lifestyle. Don’t let the fear of getting it wrong stop you. Every little bit helps, and even if you encounter setbacks, you’re still making a positive impact.

For other ways to minimize waste in your home, check out our tips on reducing trash.

Frequently Asked Questions-

1. What are the signs that my compost is ready to use?

   Your compost is ready when it’s dark, crumbly, and has an earthy smell. You should no longer recognize the original scraps, indicating successful decomposition.

2. Can I compost citrus peels in my apartment?

   Yes, but use them sparingly! Citrus peels can add acidity and deter pests, but too many can disrupt the balance of your compost.

3. What’s the best way to layer materials in a small compost bin?

   Start with a layer of coarse materials for drainage, followed by alternating layers of greens and browns. Aim for a ratio of 2:1 browns to greens for optimal decomposition.

4. Is it possible to compost during winter in a small space?

   Yes! Insulate your bin with straw or blankets to keep it warm, and continue adding kitchen scraps. Microbial activity slows but doesn’t stop entirely.