Compost Bin Tips
Compost bins can be made from just about any material that does not have chemicals in it that would kill off the beneficial bacteria, such as pressure treated wood. You can purchase these bins at hardware and home improvement stores or you can make your own. You don't really need a compost bin to make compost, but it keeps it much neater and your neighbors will sure appreciate it. This can be a simple project that takes less than an hour depending on your needs.
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Pre-made Compost Bins
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Plastic compost bin with lid.
You will find compost bins ready to use at the local hardware store that range from what looks like a storage bin to large compost tumblers. There are others that look like large garbage cans with attached lids as well as small buckets that you use inside to store your kitchen waste in until you're ready to take it outside. The best and easiest to use are the sealed tumbler bins. With this type, you don't have to turn the compost. Because they are sealed, they break down the waste much quicker. They can be very expensive though and you can make your own with a little bit of work.
Wire Mesh
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Simple wire compost bin.
Wire mesh or chicken wire is the simplest form of composting bin. You simply create a circle anywhere from three to six feet around with the wire and bend the cut ends to hold it closed. It can easily be filled with leaves, twigs and plant waste. It is difficult to turn the compost once it starts to get deep however and it's not well suited for food waste as it's easy for animals to gain access.
Wood Framed
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Sturdy wood framed wire bin.
It's easy to construct walls for a compost bin by stapling the wire mesh to wood frames. You can make four panels for walls and nail three walls together. Attach the last wall using hinges and hook and eye locks for easy access to the composting material. Cover the top with a tarp or build a lid for the bin. This will keep the compost from getting too much water during a rain storm or drying out too quickly from the sun beating on the top. There is no reason to make a bottom for this type bin unless you plan to move it around.
Using Wood Pallets
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A great use of wood pallets
Many people use wood pallets to build their compost bins. They are ideal because they allow for air circulation but are enclosed enough that the decaying material does not fall out. The panels are already preconstructed so all you have to do is attach them together. These bins don't have to be fancy, they are just holding bins. Attach one pallet with hooks so it can be removed. This will give you better access to the compost for turning and removing.
Barrel Bins
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Easy to make barrel frame.
Use an old plastic 55-gallon drum and build yourself a stand. Drill holes through the drum halfway between the bottom and the top. Place a rod through the center so each end of the rod can sit on the stand. After drilling several other air holes in the barrel, you can put your yard or kitchen waste in it and be able to turn the drum over to turn the compost when needed. This is the easiest and quickest way to turn your kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost.
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