Compost Bin
Technique
A compost bin is a contained way to make garden compost from household plant scraps and garden waste. Plastic "dalek" bins and wooden slatted bins both keep a heap tidy, retain useful warmth and suit most gardens. Choose a size that matches your available material and leaves enough room to turn or remove compost.
How it works
Set the bin directly on bare soil where possible, allowing worms and other soil life to enter from below. Add mixed browns and greens in regular layers, keeping the contents moist but not soaked. A lid reduces waterlogging and helps conserve warmth, while gaps or slats allow airflow. Material gradually settles as it decomposes; the oldest compost is usually at the bottom. Turning occasionally speeds the process, especially in a wooden bin with removable front boards. One bin works for steady cold composting, while two or three make it easier to fill, rest and harvest in rotation.
Details
Choose a level, accessible place that is not baking hot or completely waterlogged. Keep a path to the bin for winter and position it considerately if close to a neighbour. Add vegetable peelings, grass clippings, leaves, cardboard and spent plants, mixing bulky browns through wet material. Do not add meat, fish, dairy, cooked food or dog and cat waste because they can attract vermin; bokashi and some council collections may accept these. Wooden bins are easy to enlarge and turn, while plastic bins are compact and retain warmth. Use a water butt in dry weather if the heap becomes dusty.
Tips
Start with a layer of coarse twigs or prunings to improve airflow, then keep a brown store nearby. If rats or other vermin are a concern, avoid prohibited food waste, cover fresh scraps and use a secure base where appropriate. Do not use inputs suspected of aminopyralid contamination around tomatoes, beans or potatoes.
Compost Bin: frequently asked questions
How does compost bin work?
Set the bin directly on bare soil where possible, allowing worms and other soil life to enter from below.
What do I need to know about compost bin?
Choose a level, accessible place that is not baking hot or completely waterlogged.
What are some tips for compost bin?
Start with a layer of coarse twigs or prunings to improve airflow, then keep a brown store nearby.
General guidance for UK gardens and allotments. Page updated 18 Sep 2026.