Regardless of your skill level with composting, the kitchen compost bins included in this list will definitely satisfy you!
Kitchen compost bins are convenient, easy to clean, and simple to use. But they’re not all the same, so how do you know which one is best for your kitchen setup?
We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the top-rated affordable countertop compost bins.
Read on to discover the six best kitchen compost bins for 2023!
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Simplehuman Compost Caddy
Budget Compost Bin:
Epica Stainless Steel Compost Bin
Most Unique:
Bamboozle Kitchen Compost Bin
Best Overall
Simplehuman Compost Caddy
This kitchen compost bin is different than any of the others on this list because it’s meant to be attached to your trash can, but it can also be used as a countertop compost bin.
Product Features
The Simplehuman compost caddy is hung onto the side of your trashcan for even more convenient composting!
This bin is a little smaller than others, with a 1.06-gallon capacity, making it a space-efficient option for your countertop if you would prefer it to be there instead of hung onto the side of your trash can.
Equipped with fingerprint-proof coating and infused with Agion – an antimicrobial that prevents the growth of bacteria, fungi, etcetera.
This durable kitchen compost bin has a magnetic soft-seal lid that lets the composted material breathe to minimize odors.
Pros
- Conveniently docks onto the trash can
- The anti-microbial coating prevents the buildup of bacteria
- Easy to clean and durable
Cons
- Typical compost bags do not fit this bin, so special bags are needed
- Smaller than others
Budget Compost Bin
Epica Stainless Steel Compost Bin
This composting bin is one of the most popular for kitchen and countertop use.
The Epica stainless steel compost bin makes composting from your kitchen convenient. It has even been featured in a few different publications!
Product Features
The Epica kitchen compost bin can hold up to 1.3 gallons of organic substances.
The most important thing to look for in a kitchen compost bin is odor control. Nobody wants a cesspool of rotting food putting off a horrible stink sitting right on their countertop to attract every pest in the vicinity.
Lucky for you, the Epica compost bin comes equipped with replaceable charcoal filters and a tight-fitting lid that will eliminate odors!
This compost bin is a customer favorite because of how easy to clean it is! The stainless steel can be washed with mild dish soap in warm, soapy water.
Sturdily built, this bin is anti-scratch, anti-crack, and anti-chip.
Pros
- It comes with 2 extra charcoal filters
- It doesn’t take up much counter space
- Convenient handle for carrying to your outdoor composter
Cons
- Filters can get moldy unless washed regularly
- Filters are pricey to replace
Most Unique
Bamboozle Kitchen Compost Bin
The biodegradable bamboo fibers woven into this countertop compost bin make it a unique choice for your kitchen composting. It is top-rated by customers and provides consumers with an even greener way to compost!
Product Features
The Bamboozle kitchen compost bin is dishwasher safe for your convenience, or it can be hand washed in mild dish soap and warm water.
Like all the previous bins, this one also uses charcoal filters to trap and eliminate odors.
This unique kitchen compost bin is built using sustainable bamboo fibers that can be composted once you are finished using it!
Pros
- Dishwasher safe
- Made from biodegradable material
- Perfect size to fit on your countertop without taking up too much space
Cons
- It does not hold up as well to wear as other kitchen compost bins
- Does not hold composting bags
- The charcoal filter is not entirely effective because of the holes in the lid
OXO Good Grips Compost Bin
The OXO compost bin is a worthy member of the best kitchen compost bins. This plastic compost bin is a very popular choice for those looking for a small kitchen compost bin for their countertop.
Product Features
The OXO bin is smaller than some of the other compost bins included in this list, with the capacity being 0.75 gallons.
This compost bin is popular because it can be put in the freezer! It is also dishwasher-safe for your convenience.
Like most other kitchen compost bins, the snug-fitting lid uses an activated charcoal filter and is very efficient at eliminating odors as long as the lid is on properly.
The OXO compost bin is plastic, but it has smooth interior walls to prevent any food or liquid buildup.
Pros
- Dishwasher and freezer safe
- The neutral design matches most kitchen decor and appliances
- Effectively traps odors
Cons
- Too small for a large family
- The lid can be tricky to open
- Easily stained
Granrosi Kitchen Compost Bin
The Granrosi kitchen compost bin is a great choice for your countertop if you like the rustic theme! This bin comes in a couple of different colors even closer to match your kitchen decor and appliances.
Product Features
This sturdy kitchen compost bin can hold up to 1.3 gallons of compost!
The Granrosi bin is easy to clean. You can wash the container with warm soapy water. To clean the lid you can simply wipe it down with a damp washcloth.
Like the other kitchen composting bins on this list, this one also uses activated charcoal filters to mask the odor. These filters last around 3-4 months each and can be washed, which is convenient.
The Granrosi kitchen compost bin is made from alloy steel, and it is specially coated to prevent any degradation or rust.
Pros
- It comes with two extra charcoal filters
- The vintage design matches most kitchen appliances and decor
- Filters can be washed and reused
Cons
- Reviews suggest this bin may not cover odors well if the lid is not completely snug.
- It doesn’t have a carry handle
Bellemark Kitchen Compost Bin
The Bellemark kitchen compost bin is an eye-catching and smart choice for those who need a little more space than most kitchen compost bins can provide!
This rustic compost bin is the perfect accent to your farmhouse kitchen decor.
Product Features
This kitchen compost bin is different than the rest included in this list – it does not use activated charcoal filters or any type of filters for that matter. The lid fits tightly onto the bin, locking in odors.
The Bellemark bin holds up to 1.6 gallons, so it is a little bigger than most of the kitchen compost bins and the biggest of the options provided in this list.
Features a dishwasher-safe compost pail inside the rustic wooden box. Simply remove the bin from the box and place it on the top rack of your dishwasher!
The inner pail is made from rust-proof, food-grade stainless steel that protects the bin from degradation, while the outer box is made with Acacia wood for a very durable design.
Pros
- Bigger than others on the list
- Rustic wooden design matches farmhouse kitchen decor
- Dishwasher safe pail
Cons
- It does not utilize an activated charcoal filter for odor control, so it can get smelly
- It attracts pests because it lacks odor control
- Bulky and takes up more counter space than some of the other options on this list.
Kitchen Compost Bin Buyers Guide
Types of Kitchen Compost Bins
There are a couple of different types of kitchen compost bins. The most frequently used type of bin is a stainless steel or plastic compost bin with activated charcoal filters.
The stainless steel or plastic bins are a top choice for kitchen composting because the charcoal filters block odors from wafting out of the bin and stinking up your kitchen.
Another popular style of kitchen compost bin is a simple bin with a tight-fitting lid to prevent odors from being released and attracting insects.
Material
Kitchen compost bins can be made from metal, plastic, or, for an even more ecofriendly option, bamboo!
Many people prefer the stainless steel option because it is easier to keep clean and tends to last longer than bins made from other materials.
Ease of Use
Kitchen compost bins are convenient and can sit right on your countertop, underneath your sink in the cabinet, or even attached to your regular trash can in the kitchen!
They are very simple to use: place food scraps into the bin and at the end of the week empty them into your outdoor composter. Then just wash the bin with warm soapy water, or place it in the dishwasher for a cycle, and start all over again.
What To Look For in a Compost Bin
When looking for the perfect compost bin for your kitchen, you will want to look for products that match your family’s specific needs.
The odor-eliminating properties is the top priority when searching for a compost bin because nobody wants a foul-smelling bin in their kitchen attracting fruit flies and other pests. You will need to decide whether you want a kitchen compost bin with a filter or without.
You will also want to look for a sturdy, well-built compost bin that won’t degrade or rust over time and use.
Size is also an important aspect to consider when looking for the right kitchen compost bin for your family. If you have a large family, you will probably want to avoid smaller bins and go for one with a large capacity.
How To Get the Most out of Your Compost Bin
To best utilize your compost bin and extend its longevity, make sure to clean it thoroughly after dumping it each time. You can also wash your charcoal filters to extend their usefulness.
Make sure to keep the filter clean and replace it regularly to get the most out of your compost bin!
FAQ
Are compost bins worth buying?
If you compost regularly and want the convenience of a compost bin right in your kitchen, then yes, they are definitely worth the money!
They cut down trips to your outdoor composter, which is convenient for those who generate a lot of food scraps and waste while cooking.
How can I keep compost in the kitchen with no odor?
You can use a compost bin that is equipped with an activated charcoal filter, which eliminates odors.
Empty your compost bin regularly, at least once a week. Thoroughly wash your bin with warm soapy water to best eliminate odors.
Another option for controlling the stink from a kitchen compost bin is to place it in the freezer! Before taking this step, be sure that your compost bin is freezer safe.
What shouldn’t I compost?
You should never place raw meat scraps, weeds, dairy, or cooking oils in your kitchen compost bin.
What can I put in my compost bin?
You can put a variety of degradable food scraps into your compost bin. Some things you may want to include are eggshells, coffee grounds, fruit, vegetables, etcetera.
You may also place small pieces of cardboard and other ‘browns’ such as dry leaves, newspaper, or hay into your compost bin.
For optimal breakdown, make sure to layer the ‘browns’ with the food scraps or ‘greens.’
Wrapping Up The Best Kitchen Composting Bins of 2023
Kitchen compost bins make green living even easier! They are convenient for those who spend a lot of time composting but want to cut down on trips to the outdoor composter.
For more information about composting, check out the Composting page on our website. You’ll find blog posts about compositing, plus other product recommendations to help you create the best compost for a healthy garden!