How to Make a Compost bin from Wheelie Bin

Composting is a fantastic way to reduce waste, enrich your garden soil, and contribute to a more sustainable environment.

However, not everyone has access to a traditional compost bin. What if we told you that you can repurpose your old wheelie bin into an efficient composting system?

In this article, I will guide you through the process of turning your wheelie bin into a compost bin, offering an eco-friendly solution that’s both affordable and environmentally responsible.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

To get started, you’ll need the following materials:

1. A clean, unused wheelie bin (the larger, the better).
2. A drill with a 10mm drill bit.
3. A jigsaw or handsaw.
4. Bungee cords or straps.
5. A lid for your wheelie bin (optional but recommended).

Step 2: Prepare the Wheelie Bin

First, ensure your wheelie bin is clean and free of any residual waste. This is essential to maintain the composting environment and avoid any unwanted odors. If your bin has a lid, great! If not, you can create one using a piece of wood or plastic.

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Step 3: Create Ventilation Holes

Using the drill with a 10mm drill bit, create a series of holes around the sides and bottom of the wheelie bin.

These holes are crucial for aeration, allowing oxygen to flow freely through the composting materials.

Proper aeration speeds up the decomposition process and reduces the risk of a smelly, anaerobic pile.

Step 4: Cut an Access Door

Using the jigsaw or handsaw, carefully cut an access door on one side of the bin. This door will allow you to add and remove compost materials easily.

Make sure the door is large enough to accommodate your needs but small enough to maintain structural integrity.

Step 5: Place the Bin

Find a suitable location for your compost bin, preferably in a sunny or partially shaded spot. Make sure it’s easily accessible for adding kitchen scraps and garden waste.

Step 6: Start Composting

Begin by adding a layer of brown materials (e.g., dry leaves, cardboard) followed by green materials (e.g., kitchen scraps, grass clippings).

Remember to maintain a good balance between these two types of materials to ensure successful decomposition.

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FAQs: Can I turn my wheelie bin into a compost bin?

Yes, you can repurpose your old wheelie bin into a compost bin. It’s an excellent way to recycle your bin and create a functional composting system.

How do you start a compost bin for beginners?

Starting a compost bin for beginners is easy. Follow these steps:

a. Choose a suitable location with good drainage and access to sunlight or partial shade.
b. Gather brown materials (e.g., dry leaves, cardboard) and green materials (e.g., kitchen scraps, grass clippings) in a balanced ratio.
c. Layer your compost materials, starting with brown, then green, and repeat.
d. Turn or mix your compost pile regularly to aerate it and speed up decomposition.
e. Maintain proper moisture levels (like a damp sponge) and avoid overwatering.

Do compost bins need soil?

Compost bins don’t require soil as an essential component. Instead, they rely on a mix of organic materials, including brown and green materials, water, and microorganisms (bacteria, fungi) to break down into compost.

However, adding a small amount of garden soil can introduce beneficial microorganisms and help jumpstart the decomposition process.

Do compost bins need a floor?

Compost bins do not necessarily need a floor. Many composting systems, including open piles and some bin designs, are placed directly on the ground.

The soil beneath the bin allows for natural drainage and enables beneficial organisms to enter and assist in the decomposition process.

However, some compost bin designs come with a base or floor to help contain the compost and prevent it from coming into direct contact with the ground.

The choice of a floor or no floor depends on your specific composting setup and preferences.

Conclusion

If you are on a budget, you don’t need to invest your money to buy expensive bins. You can repurpose your old plastic dustbin, wheelie bin, or trash can.

Repurposing your old wheelie bin into a compost bin is a sustainable and cost-effective way to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich compost for your garden.

By following these simple steps, you can contribute to a healthier environment and enjoy the benefits of home composting.

So, grab that unused bin, get creative, and start composting your way to a greener future!

Reference

1. How to Make a Compost Bin from a Wheelie Bin, retrieved from here
2. Make a Compost Bin From a Wheelie Bin retrieved from here