Your green bin, or compost bin, is best kept outside—it’s simply more hygienic. But even outdoors, it needs a bit of care, especially in warm weather. No one wants a smelly bin that attracts bugs! Don’t worry, though—these practical tips will help keep your compost bin fresh and free of unwanted smells and pests.
How to keep your compost bin clean and odor-free
Regular cleaning
The golden rule for a fresh compost bin? Regular cleaning. Rinse it with water and a little baking soda, but avoid harsh chemicals like bleach.
Find a shady spot
Place your compost bin in a cool, shaded area. This helps keep strong odors and pests at bay.
Newspaper lining
Put a layer of old newspaper at the bottom of the bin. It absorbs moisture and prevents leftover bits from sticking. No old newspaper? Straw works just as well.
Vinegar as a repellent
Mix some cleaning vinegar with water and pour a thin layer in the bottom of the bin. Leave the lid slightly open with a clothespin to let odors escape. This also keeps maggots and insects away.
Mothballs in a pantyhose
Hang a few mothballs in an old pantyhose in the bin. A tried-and-true trick to deter pests!
Lavender for a natural freshener
Maggots hate lavender. Add a few sprigs to the bin, or use a few drops of lavender essential oil. Not only will it keep bugs at bay, but it’ll also help tackle unpleasant odors.
Coffee grounds as an odor absorber
Save your coffee grounds! Sprinkle them in the bin to help absorb any bad smells. Bonus tip: coffee grounds work well in the fridge, too.
Laundry powder for extra freshness
Sprinkle a handful of laundry powder at the bottom of the bin to fight odors. You can repeat this halfway if the bin fills up.
What can you put in the compost bin?
Not sure what goes in the compost bin? Here’s a handy list:
Allowed: vegetable and fruit peels, small cooked food scraps, coffee grounds, bread crusts, tea leaves and bags, nut shells, paper towels, wilted flowers, grass clippings, weeds, leaves, shredded prunings, hedge trimmings, manure from small pets (not dog waste!).
Not allowed: plastic, animal waste, tree stumps, thick branches, metal, sand, meat or fish waste, oil, eggshells, mussel shells, biodegradable bags, kitty litter.
Practical tip
If odors are still an issue, try emptying the bin more frequently, especially in warm weather. This way, your green bin stays clean and fresh with minimal effort!
