How to Start Composting in Small Spaces.

Table of Contents

Easiest Way to Start Composting in Small Spaces.

Even if you live in a small apartment, composting is possible. It’s an easy way to reduce waste and turn kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich material for plants. Here’s how you can make it work:

• Why Compost? Food and yard waste make up over 30% of landfill waste, generating methane - a harmful greenhouse gas. Composting reduces this and creates rich soil for plants.
• Challenges: Limited space, odors, and pests can be concerns, but compact systems and proper maintenance solve these issues.
• Methods:
  • Vermicomposting: Uses worms; fits under sinks or closets; costs $50–$135; takes 3–4 months.
  • Bokashi: Ferments all food waste, including meat; countertop-friendly; costs $30–$80 plus ongoing bran expenses; ready in 10–14 days.
  • Electric Composters: Fast (24–48 hours); costs $400–$1,000; requires electricity.
  • Rotating Bins: Ideal for balconies; costs $50–$150; composts in 4–6 weeks.
• Maintenance Tips: Balance nitrogen-rich scraps with carbon materials (e.g., shredded paper), keep moisture levels right, and turn the compost regularly.

Quick Comparison:

Method	Time to Compost	Space Needed	Cost Range	Best For
Vermicomposting	3–4 months	Under sink/closet	$50–$135	Indoor plant enthusiasts
Bokashi	10–14 days	Countertop/cabinet	$30–$80 + bran	Meat/dairy composting
Electric Composter	24–48 hours	Countertop	$400–$1,000	Convenience-focused users
Rotating Bin	4–6 weeks	Balcony/patio	$50–$150	Outdoor access with small space

Start small by collecting food scraps in a sealed container. Choose a method that fits your space and lifestyle, and enjoy turning waste into something useful.

HOW TO COMPOST KITCHEN SCRAPS IN A SMALL SPACE

Choosing the Best Composting Method for Small Spaces

Finding the right composting method for compact living spaces depends on your available room, budget, and how much effort you’re willing to put in. Each option has its own perks, making it easier to match a method to your lifestyle. Let’s break them down.

Vermicomposting (Worm Composting)

Vermicomposting uses worms to transform kitchen scraps into nutrient-packed compost. It’s perfect for apartments because it’s compact, quiet, and odor-free. For instance, the Worm Factory 360 costs $134.95 and delivers excellent results without much smell. While it takes about 3–4 months to produce finished compost, the results are impressive - nutrient levels can increase by up to 42% for nitrogen, 29% for phosphorus, and 57% for potassium compared to regular compost. Farmers in India even report cutting input costs by 30–40% and boosting crop yields by 15–25% using this method.

Worms thrive on a bedding of shredded paper or cardboard and love fruit and veggie scraps, coffee grounds, and eggshells. But skip onions, meat, oils, dairy, eggs, and citrus. Since worms are sensitive to temperature changes, keeping them in a stable indoor environment is crucial. Regular care involves checking moisture levels, adding fresh bedding, and harvesting worm castings every so often.

Bokashi Composting

Bokashi composting uses microorganisms to ferment food waste in an airtight container. This Japanese technique works well in tight spaces and can handle all kinds of food waste, including meat and dairy. The process takes just 10–14 days, producing a pre-compost material and a liquid fertilizer called bokashi tea.

To get started, you’ll need a special bucket and bokashi bran, which contains the essential microorganisms. The process is simple: layer your food scraps with bran, press out extra air, and seal the container. Keep the temperature between 68–77°F for the best results. However, the fermented waste isn’t ready for direct garden use - it must be buried in soil or added to a traditional compost pile to finish breaking down.

"The main problem with Bokashi composting is that the fermented waste cannot be used directly as compost in the garden but must first be buried in soil or added to a traditional compost pile to finish decomposing."

Keep in mind, you’ll need to budget for ongoing purchases of bokashi bran.

Electric Countertop Composters

Electric composters speed up the composting process by using heat, grinding, and aeration. Some models can shrink food waste by 70–90% in just 24–48 hours. Popular options include the Lomi Home Composter ($599), the Mill Food Recycler ($999), and the Reencle Prime Electric Composter ($499 or $35/month). Many users praise the Mill Food Recycler for its odorless operation and ease of use.

While these machines are convenient and fast, the output usually needs further decomposition before it’s ready for gardening. You’ll also need to consider electricity costs and occasional maintenance, like replacing filters. For example, the Vitamix FoodCycler FC-50 requires filters that cost about $75–$100 annually.

Using Rotating Bins for Outdoor Spaces

If you have a balcony or patio, a rotating compost bin offers a great mix of convenience and traditional composting. The Envirocycle Mini Composter, priced at $49.99, is a popular choice for small outdoor spaces. These bins work by tumbling the compost materials, speeding up decomposition to about 4–6 weeks.

To get the best results, balance greens (like fruit and veggie scraps) with browns (like dry leaves or shredded paper) and turn the bin regularly. This method doesn’t require ongoing costs or electricity, but it does need outdoor space and some physical effort. Weather, especially in winter, can also affect the process.

Each of these methods has its own strengths, so take a moment to consider your space and maintenance preferences before deciding.

Method	Time to Compost	Space Needed	Cost Range	Best For
Vermicomposting	3–4 months	Under sink/closet	$50–$135	Plant lovers seeking nutrient-rich compost
Bokashi	10–14 days	Countertop/cabinet	~$30–$80 + bran costs	Those wishing to compost meat and dairy
Electric	24–48 hours	Countertop	$400–$1,000	Convenience seekers with higher budgets
Rotating Bin	4–6 weeks	Small balcony/patio	$50–$150	Those with outdoor access

Once you’ve chosen your method, it’s time to set up and maintain your composting system.

Setting Up and Maintaining Your Compost System

Once you've chosen your composting method, it's time to set everything up and learn how to keep your system running smoothly. The process doesn't require much - just a few tools and some know-how. With the right setup, you'll be turning kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich compost in no time.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Most composting methods only call for a handful of tools, many of which you might already have at home.

For all methods, you'll need a kitchen scrap collection bucket, protective gloves, and tools for turning the compost. A countertop compost pail is particularly helpful for collecting scraps while keeping odors contained. In fact, when San Francisco launched a pilot program in March 2024, providing free countertop compost pails to 5,000 apartment residents, food waste sent to landfills dropped by 15% in just six months.

Vermicomposting requires a worm bin (store-bought or DIY), bedding materials like shredded paper, cardboard, or dry leaves, and red wiggler worms. The bedding should be soaked for 24 hours to reach the right moisture level. A small garden fork or pitchfork is useful for occasional turning.

For Bokashi composting, you’ll need an airtight container and bokashi bran to ferment your food scraps.

If you’re using an electric composter, setup is minimal. Just plug it in and follow the manufacturer's instructions. A compost thermometer can help monitor temperatures, and a spray bottle or small watering can is handy for managing moisture.

With your tools ready, here’s how to set up each composting method.

Step-by-Step Setup for Each Method

Vermicomposting:
Start by preparing your worm bin. Drill ventilation holes near the top and drainage holes near the bottom, then cover the holes with vinyl screening to keep the worms contained. If you're using a two-bin system, place tuna cans or similar spacers between the bins to improve airflow.
Next, soak shredded paper, cardboard, or dry leaves in water for 24 hours until damp but not soggy. Fill one-third of the bin with this moist bedding, add your red wiggler worms, and let them settle for a day before slowly introducing food scraps.

Bokashi Composting:
Add your food scraps to an airtight container and mix in bokashi bran. The key is to minimize air exposure to encourage fermentation.

Electric Composters:
Place your electric composter in a suitable location, plug it in, and follow the manufacturer's instructions. These devices are designed for simplicity, with automatic cycles that handle most of the work.

Rotating Bins:
For outdoor rotating bins, choose a level spot with good drainage. Start by layering brown materials - like dry leaves or shredded paper - followed by green materials such as kitchen scraps. Aim for a carbon-to-nitrogen ratio of about 3:1.

Daily and Weekly Maintenance Tasks

Once your system is up and running, a few regular tasks will keep it efficient.

Daily Tasks:
Add food scraps to your system. For vermicomposting, make sure to cover the scraps with about 2 inches of bedding to keep them buried. With electric composters, add waste as per the appliance's capacity.

Weekly Tasks:
Turn or stir your compost to improve aeration, which speeds up decomposition and reduces odors. Check the moisture level - it should feel like a wrung-out sponge, about 50% moist. If you notice unpleasant odors, the compost may be too wet or lack sufficient air. In that case, mix in more brown materials and stir the pile. Keep the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio balanced by using roughly three parts brown materials for every one part green.
For vermicomposting, feed the worms weekly and ensure the bedding stays moist, adding fresh material as needed.

Chopping compostable materials into smaller pieces helps them break down faster. Avoid adding dairy, meat, or excessive oils to reduce odors and pests. Keeping a log of what you add and when can help you fine-tune your composting process over time.

Managing Odors and Avoiding Pests

Even the most well-maintained composting setups can occasionally run into issues with odors and pests, especially in small indoor spaces. The upside? Most of these problems are caused by basic imbalances, and once you identify the issue, they're usually easy to resolve.

Common Odor Sources and How to Fix Them

"Well-balanced compost is odorless; imbalances cause smells",
explains the Mill team. If your compost starts to smell unpleasant, it's a sign that something in the mix needs adjusting.

One of the most common causes of odor is an imbalance between "greens" (nitrogen-rich materials like fruit and vegetable scraps) and "browns" (carbon-rich materials like dry leaves or cardboard). Too much green material can create a soggy, smelly mess. Jody Schmidt points out:

"A compost pile that is properly balanced between nitrogen rich components and carbon rich components won't have an odor other than an earthy smell".

To avoid this, aim for a 2:1 to 3:1 ratio of browns to greens. Add materials such as shredded newspaper, dry leaves, or cardboard to maintain this balance.

Another culprit? Poor airflow and excess moisture. When decomposition turns anaerobic due to these factors, strong odors can result. To fix this, mix your compost regularly and add dry brown materials to absorb moisture. The ideal moisture level should feel similar to a wrung-out sponge.

Certain items are guaranteed odor producers and should be avoided altogether. Foods like meat, dairy, oils, and greasy leftovers not only smell bad but also attract pests and slow down decomposition. Stick to safer options like fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and eggshells.

If odors persist, try sprinkling a few tablespoons of baking soda on your compost every couple of weeks. According to Compost Magazine,

"When it comes into contact with an odor, the molecules of the baking soda bind to the molecules of the odor, trapping them and preventing them from being released into the air".

For apartment dwellers, freezing food scraps before adding them to the compost can help minimize smells by temporarily halting decomposition. Compost bins with carbon filters are another great way to keep odors in check.

Keeping Pests at Bay in Small Spaces

Odors and pests often go hand in hand, but a well-sealed and properly managed compost system can prevent unwelcome visitors.

"Compost is surprisingly clean when done right",
says Eringobraugh2021. The trick is to create conditions that pests find unappealing.

Start by choosing the right container. A compost bin with a tight-fitting lid is essential to keep flies and other insects out. Cover ventilation holes with fine mesh to allow airflow while blocking pests.

When adding fresh scraps, bury them deep within the compost and cover them with a layer of brown materials. This reduces odors and limits access for pests.

Moisture control is another key factor. Fruit flies thrive in damp environments, so if your compost is too wet, add dry materials like shredded paper or cardboard to absorb the excess moisture. Also, avoid adding overly ripe or rotting produce, as these are particularly attractive to fruit flies.

Nathaniel Williams shared a clever tip in the "Composting, just composting" Facebook group in December 2024: burying shrimp shells with soil or covering them with ashes or potting soil effectively eliminated flies without needing harmful chemicals. Quick action like this can naturally resolve pest problems.

For rodent issues, peppermint oil works as a natural deterrent. A few drops around your compost area can help keep mice and rats away without interfering with the composting process.

If you're collecting food scraps in a container before transferring them to your main compost system, choose one with a tight-fitting lid and empty it regularly to prevent odors and pests.

Finally, think about placement. Keep your compost bin in a cool, shaded area away from direct sunlight. Excess heat speeds up decomposition, which can increase odors and attract pests. A moderate, consistent temperature helps maintain a balanced composting environment.

Common Compost Problems	Quick Fixes
Fruit flies around the bin	Cover scraps with brown materials; ensure the lid is tight
Ammonia smell	Add more brown materials; reduce green waste
Rotten egg odor	Mix compost more often; improve airflow
Soggy, smelly compost	Add dry materials like shredded paper or cardboard
Slow decomposition	Check moisture levels; adjust the green-to-brown ratio

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What Can and Cannot Be Composted

Understanding what to compost is crucial for keeping your compost pile healthy, odor-free, and effective while avoiding issues like pests or plant damage.

Compost-Friendly Waste

Your kitchen is a treasure trove of materials perfect for composting. Fruit and vegetable scraps are the foundation of most compost systems, and chopping them into smaller pieces can help them break down faster, especially in limited spaces.

Other great additions include coffee grounds, paper filters, and tea bags - just make sure the tea bags are free of staples. Crushed eggshells are another excellent option, as they decompose more quickly when broken into smaller pieces.

For the carbon-rich "browns", consider shredded paper (non-glossy and uncolored), such as newspaper, office paper, or brown paper bags. Shredded cardboard also works well, but avoid anything coated in wax, tape, or glue .

If you have access to outdoor materials, grass clippings, dry leaves, untreated wood chips, and plant stalks or twigs can add both nutrients and structure to your compost pile.

The secret to a thriving compost pile is achieving the right balance between nitrogen-rich "greens" and carbon-rich "browns." This balance helps your compost break down efficiently and prevents unpleasant odors .

Items to Avoid

While the right materials can supercharge your compost, some items can cause serious problems, especially in small or confined spaces.

Animal products like meat, fish, bones, and dairy are best avoided. According to Lorin Nielsen, head horticulturist at Epic Gardening:

"Rotting meat can accumulate a significant amount of bacteria during the decomposition process, which can pose health risks to humans unless it is properly hot-composted".

Most small-scale composting systems don’t reach the high temperatures needed to safely break down these items, so it’s better to leave them out.

Oils, fats, and grease are another no-go, as they decompose slowly and can attract unwanted pests.

Pet waste from dogs or cats is unsafe for composting due to the risk of harmful bacteria and parasites .

Avoid adding diseased or pest-infested plants, as they can contaminate your compost unless you’re able to maintain very high composting temperatures - something most small systems can’t achieve .

Be cautious with weeds that have gone to seed, as they may spread throughout your garden when you use the compost. Similarly, treated or painted wood, coal ash, and black walnut debris should be left out. Black walnut contains juglone, a chemical toxic to many plants .

Steer clear of glossy or colorful cardboard and paper, which may contain heavy metals. Stick to plain brown cardboard instead.

Lastly, don’t trust "compostable" plastics unless they’re specifically certified for home composting. Most of these materials require industrial composting facilities to break down properly.

Safe for Small-Space Composting	Keep Out of Your Compost
Fruit and vegetable scraps	Animal products (meat, fish, bones, dairy)
Coffee grounds and filters	Oils, fats, and grease
Crushed eggshells	Pet waste
Shredded newspaper and cardboard	Diseased plants
Grass clippings and dry leaves	Weeds with seeds
Paper tea bags (no staples)	Treated or painted wood
Untreated wood chips	"Compostable" plastics

Using and Storing Your Finished Compost

How to Know When Compost is Ready

Finished compost has a rich, dark color, a crumbly texture, and smells like fresh earth. You'll notice that its volume has significantly reduced - about half the original size - and the individual materials you started with are no longer visible. If you’ve been using the hot composting method, the pile should have stopped generating heat. Depending on factors like the size of the materials, how actively you manage the pile, and its intended use, compost can take anywhere from one to 12 months to fully mature. For container gardening, it's especially important to ensure the compost is completely finished, often referred to as stable or mature.

You can test your compost's readiness with a couple of simple methods. One option is a germination test: fill two containers with compost and sprinkle radish seeds inside. If at least 75% of the seeds sprout and grow, your compost is good to go. Another method is to take a handful of compost from the center of the pile, moisten it, and seal it in a plastic bag for five days. When you open the bag, the compost should smell fresh and earthy - anything else means it's not ready yet.

Once your compost is mature, it’s time to put it to work in your garden.

Ways to Use Your Compost

For houseplants, mix 30% finished compost with 70% potting soil, or simply top-dress the soil with a thin layer of compost. This helps plants retain nutrients and moisture while improving the overall health of the soil. For best results, apply compost to houseplants once or twice a year. When repotting, combine compost with soils that have larger particles to promote good drainage and prevent soil compaction. This mix is especially effective for container gardens, which are common in urban spaces.

Jessica Dawe, owner of a garden center, highlights the benefits of homemade compost:

"Compost is the most beneficial, full-spectrum amendment you can add to your garden. It helps retain water, lightens the soil, and acts as a consistent source of nutrition thanks to its dynamic and rich composition."

Balcony gardens also thrive with finished compost. It works as a natural fertilizer for container plants and can turn even the smallest outdoor areas into productive growing spaces.

Once you’ve applied compost where it’s needed, proper storage ensures you can use the rest later without losing its quality.

Safe Storage and Handling

Storing compost correctly keeps it fresh and reduces unpleasant odors. While compost can technically be stored indefinitely, it’s best to use it within three to four months to preserve its nutrient content. For indoor storage, use an airtight container placed in a secure location, away from pets and children. Choose a spot that’s dry and maintains a moderate temperature - not too hot or too cold.

If your compost dries out during storage, lightly mist it with water and give it a stir. For outdoor storage, keep it in a lidded container and cover it with a tarp to protect it from excessive sun or rain. If you notice a bad odor, mix in more brown materials like dry leaves to balance the moisture and improve airflow. Damp compost can be stored in clumps, as the natural freezing and thawing during winter will break it apart over time. Transferring compost to storage containers also allows for extra curing, making it even more beneficial by supporting the growth of helpful microbes.

Start Composting Today

Getting started with composting doesn't require a complete overhaul of your daily habits. Start by setting up a simple collection system in your kitchen. A covered bowl or a small bin works perfectly for gathering food scraps like vegetable peels and coffee grounds as you cook and clean up. Once you've got that in place, explore composting methods that suit your living space and budget.

For those in apartments, vermicomposting is a great option. Systems like the Worm Factory 360 start at $149.99 and are easy to manage. If you're looking for something simpler, Bokashi composting uses a bucket to ferment waste, while electric countertop composters provide a more automated solution. Even basic stainless steel compost pails are available for around $31.99, making it accessible for everyone.

Cass Marketos offers some practical advice for maintaining your compost:

"Maintenance of a one-bag compost, for the most part, can be incorporated into your existing routine. Things will break down faster if they're added in smaller bits, so break stuff up as you add it. You can do this quite easily as part of usual meal preparation. Slice up your zucchini ends and your kale stems as you go. Add them to the bag when you're done. This will make it easier for your compost to digest them, and they'll break down more quickly."

By composting your kitchen scraps, you’re not only reducing landfill waste but also cutting down on methane emissions. This small change contributes to combating climate change while turning waste into nutrient-rich compost that can revitalize soil through nature's recycling process.

Besides the environmental perks, composting can save you money. The compost you create naturally nourishes indoor plants and balcony gardens, reducing the need to buy fertilizers and potting soil. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with others who share an interest in sustainability.

If you're new to composting, start small to keep things manageable. For vermicomposting, begin with about 50 worms and expand your system gradually. Balance your scraps with a tablespoon of alfalfa per cup of waste, adjusting moisture levels by adding water if it’s too dry or more alfalfa if it’s too wet. Chopping larger scraps into smaller pieces during meal prep also speeds up the decomposition process. These simple steps not only make composting easier but also deliver both environmental and financial benefits.

Once you’ve integrated composting into your routine, it becomes second nature - just like taking out the trash. The difference? You’ll be creating something valuable while helping the planet.

FAQs

How can I prevent odors and pests when composting in a small space?

To manage odors and keep pests away when composting in a small space, start with airtight compost bins or freezer-safe containers. These are great for sealing in smells and preventing pests from getting into your compost.

A good compost mix is all about balance. Layer your greens (like food scraps) with browns (such as shredded paper or dried leaves). To cut down on odors, make sure to bury food scraps under the browns. Also, keep an eye on moisture levels - your compost should feel like a damp sponge, not too soggy or dry.

For a cleaner experience, try lining your bin with compostable bags. This makes cleanup easier and helps reduce mess. And don’t forget to regularly empty and clean your compost container to keep your space smelling fresh and free of pests.

What’s the best way to start composting in a small space like an apartment?

The right composting method for small spaces largely depends on your living situation and habits. Vermicomposting, which relies on worms to break down food scraps, is an excellent choice for apartments. It takes up very little room, works indoors, and is surprisingly simple to manage. Another option is compact countertop compost bins or small tumblers specifically designed for urban settings.

When deciding, consider key factors like odor management, the amount of space available, and whether you want to compost indoors or outdoors. For instance, vermicomposting is perfect if you don’t have outdoor access, while small, sealed bins are great for keeping odors under control in confined areas. Choose a method that aligns with your space and daily routine to make composting both practical and hassle-free.

What mistakes should I avoid when composting in a small apartment?

When composting in a small apartment, steer clear of adding meat, dairy, or oily foods. These items can lead to strong odors and might attract unwanted pests. Keeping the right moisture level is also key - think of a texture similar to a damp sponge. Compost that's too wet or too dry can throw off the decomposition process.

Good aeration and drainage are essential to avoid unpleasant smells and ensure everything breaks down properly. Consider methods like vermicomposting (using worms) or airtight countertop bins paired with carbon-rich materials, which help control odors and save precious space. With a bit of attention, you can set up a compact, odor-free composting system that works perfectly for apartment living!