Composting is a wonderful way to help the environment and provide rich, natural fertilizer for your garden and indoor plants. Fertilizer from compost does not burn plants like chemical fertilizers and composting helps reduce the amount of garbage in landfills. If you lack outdoor space or aren’t ready to commit to a large outdoor composter, an indoor composter is a good way to go.
We reviewed dozens of products to help you choose the best option. We considered size, ease of cleaning, durability, smell, versatility, ease of use, and customer reviews when reviewing each product.
After sifting through the reviews, the Epica Stainless Steel Compost Bin 1.3 Gallon easily rose to the top as the best compost bin available. It is a moderate size at 1.3 gallons and controls odors naturally using a charcoal filter and air-tight lid. Plus, this stainless-steel bin is one piece, so you don’t have to worry about rust or leaks.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Indoor Compost Bins
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Epica Stainless Steel Compost Bin 1.3 Gallon | 4.8 |
| Runner Up | Indoor Kitchen Compost Bin by Spigo | 4.8 |
| Best Budget Buy | Utopia Kitchen Stainless Steel Compost Bin for Kitchen Countertop | 4.4 |
| Best Large Indoor Compost Bin | Indoor Big Green Compost Bucket | 4.1 |
| Best Indoor Compost Bucket | Exaco Trading Co. CPBG 01 Exaco 2-in-1 Indoor Compost Bucket | 4.0 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Epica Stainless Steel Compost Bin 1.3 Gallon
The Epica Stainless Steel Compost Bin 1.3 Gallon is a great indoor compost bin that fits most people’s needs. This indoor compost bin controls the composting odors naturally by using an airtight lid and replaceable, activated charcoal filter. These two features work together to trap the odors and neutralize them, so you don’t have to worry about your kitchen getting smelly. With careful handling, this filter will last more than six months. Over time though, it will need to be replaced with a new one. The filter can be cleaned with soap and water if it becomes dirty. This bin is also small enough to sit on your counter, while also being large enough to hold several days’ worth of organic kitchen waste. It works with vegetable peels, fruits, and even coffee grounds.
Made of stainless steel, this bin is durable and can last a lifetime. It is all one piece, unlike much of the competition, so there is only a very small chance that it will rust or leak. It is scratch-resistant and designed not to crack or chip. Because it is made of premium stainless-steel, it will not leach potentially harmful chemicals into your compost, which can potentially injure your plants. It is also very easy to clean and only requires a quick wash in between compost cycles.
Epica Stainless Steel Compost Bin 1.3 Gallon Key Features:
- Controls odors with air-tight lid and filter
- 3 gallons
- Stainless-Steel
- Rust and leak resistant
Our Runner Up Pick: Indoor Kitchen Compost Bin by Spigo
Designed for style and practicality, the Indoor Kitchen Compost Bin by Spigo is another great composting solution. It uses an activated charcoal filter to absorb and trap odors inside the bin, so you don’t have to worry about your kitchen becoming smelly. The retro-vintage design looks great in nearly every kitchen and is much more stylish than many other options. It comes in white and silver, allowing you to choose whatever color best fits your kitchen’s current style. Like many indoor compost bins, it is stainless steel and resists rust and leaks. There is a removable basket on the inside that holds your food scraps and compost. The basket easily lifts out to make transporting your compost easily. Customers particularly loved this feature, which is unique to this compost bin and not found in many other options. This removes the need for compostable bags or anything or that sort. The compost bin also does not leach harmful materials into your compost, protecting your plants.
The high-grade stainless-steel construction ensures that this compost bin is durable enough to withstand years to use. It can hold approximately 0.9 gallons, which is plenty for a few days of compost materials. This company also provides a 30-day money back guarantee. If you don’t like it, just let the company know, and they’ll give you a refund!
Indoor Kitchen Compost Bin by Spigo Key Features:
- Resists rust and leaks
- Stainless-steel
- Removable basket
- Satisfaction guaranteed
Best Budget Pick: Utopia Kitchen Stainless Steel Compost Bin for Kitchen Countertop
Whether you’re budget-conscious or just need a quick composting option, the Utopia Kitchen Stainless Steel Compost Bin for Kitchen Countertop is worth looking into. This sleek and stylish compost bin is an upgrade from the ordinary plastic bins while also being incredibly inexpensive. It is designed to hold your kitchen waste such as vegetable peels and uneaten food and looks wonderful on your kitchen counter. This beautiful design is a good option if you’re tired of hiding your plastic compost bin under the counter but still, don’t want to commit to an expensive bin.
This compost bin also comes with a charcoal filter that eliminates odors, allowing your kitchen to remain odor-free even with the compost bin out in the open. It does not harbor bacteria or leach harmful chemicals into your compost, which allows the compost it makes to be used on food crops and in areas where children are present. It comes with a handle and is made with high-quality stainless-steel that won’t rust, scratch, or chip. All you need to do it clean it with warm, soapy water between each use. It is durable and designed to provide a lifetime of waste management.
However, some customers did have difficulties with the lid. Some reported that the lid was not tight fitting enough, which allowed flies to access the compost inside. Others claimed that it was too tight and not easy to put on or remove.
Utopia Kitchen Stainless Steel Compost Bin for Kitchen Countertop Key Features:
- Charcoal filter
- Sleek design
- Does not leach chemicals
- High-quality stainless-steel construction
Best Large Indoor Compost Bin: Indoor Big Green Compost Bucket
If you have a large family, you probably make lots of scraps. The Indoor Big Green Compost Bucket holds up to five gallons of kitchen scraps, plenty of room for all your composting needs. It stands at almost 15 inches tall and measures 12 inches in diameter. With so much space, you can gather your scraps for longer before transporting them to a larger compost bin or composting facility. Even though it does hold quite a bit, this bucket is absolutely odor-free thanks to its air-tight screw lid that contains odors. It is made out of high-density polyethylene pail with a wire bail handle.
Many customers reported that this compost bin works wonderfully and is suitable for even extremely large families. For the size, it is available for a very low price. It is well made and built for years of use. That said, some customers did report that the lid did not screw on very well, which can lead to some odor releasing from the bucket. Furthermore, without a filter, the bucket only traps the odors and doesn’t neutralize them. All the odors, of course, are going to escape when you open the box to put something in it. If you do decide to purchase this box, we recommend keeping it in a garage or similar area instead of your kitchen for this reason.
Indoor Big Green Compost Bucket Key Features:
- 5 gallons
- Air-tight lid
- Made of polyethylene
- Plastic Lid
Best Indoor Compost Bucket: Exaco Trading Co. CPBG 01 Exaco 2-in-1 Indoor Compost Bucket
The Exaco Trading Co. CPBG 01 Exaco 2-in-1 Indoor Compost Bucket is a good option for your kitchen countertop or underneath your sink. It comes in five attractive colors, so you can pick the best option for your style and preferences. It holds one gallon of kitchen scraps, which is more than enough for most families. It is also dishwasher safe, so you don’t have to worry about spending time washing it by hand. The bucket-in-a-bucket design makes it extremely easy to carry your kitchen scraps out to a larger compost bin or pile. The lid comes with a clear rubber seal that helps eliminate odors and pests. However, it does not contain a charcoal filter and only traps the smell. Of course, this also means you won’t have to worry about replacing a charcoal filter, so it really just depends on your preferences and needs.
The outer bucket is made out of sheet metal while the inner bucket is made of polypropylene. It is the perfect size to fit on your kitchen counter – large enough to fit plenty of your kitchen scraps but not so large that it is hard to fit in your kitchen space. It is the perfect size to keep on top of your counter, but also fits quite easily underneath your countertop.
Exaco Trading Co. CPBG 01 Exaco 2-in-1 Indoor Compost Bucket Key Features:
- 1-gallon
- Dishwasher safe
- Bucket-in-bucket design
- Rubber seal
Who Should Buy an Indoor Compost Bin
Composting is an affordable way to utilize your kitchen waste while also helping the environment. However, not everyone has an outdoor space they can dedicate to composting. Indoor composting allows you to take advantage of all the benefits of composting without having to dedicate an outdoor area or buy an expensive outdoor bin. Indoor composters will also work all year-around, while outdoor composters often don’t due to the colder weather.
If you’re renting or have small yard space, indoor composting is the way to go. While outdoor composters require a space of three feet by three feet at least, indoor composters can take up very little room on your counter, underneath your sink, or even in the basement. If you make a lot of kitchen waste (like parents of toddlers do) or you have a garden, indoor composting allows you to reduce your waste and create rich compost very inexpensively.
Important Features to Consider
An indoor compost bin should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting an indoor compost bin for your home.
- Size. Indoor compost bins come in all shapes and sizes. The larger an indoor compost bin is, the more kitchen waste it can hold at a time. However, larger indoor compost bins will also take up more room than smaller ones, which is something you really need to consider if your kitchen space is small already. Consider your family’s size and the amount of waste you create when choosing an appropriate size.
- Style. If you’re planning on sitting your compost bin on your counter, you should get one that is at least somewhat aesthetically pleasing. Luckily, there are lots of different styles of indoor compost bins out there. Some look like modern, stainless-steel appliances, while others have a more vintage feel. Of course, there are also those that just look like miniature versions of bins you might find at a recycling plant. We recommend choosing one that you like while also keeping practicality in mind.
- Odor. Decomposing food obviously creates an odor, which can easily stink up your kitchen. We recommend selecting a compost bin that comes with a filter to help reduce these smells. Activated charcoal filters are the most popular option and work quite well. Of course, you will have to wash and change the filter on a semi-regular basis. If that is a big deal to you, you can purchase a compost bin that comes with an airtight lid and no filter. However, because the lid is only trapping the odor and not neutralizing it, some of the foul air will escape when you open the lid.
- Material. Most compost bins are made out of metal or plastic. Stainless-steel is a popular choice for high-quality indoor composters. They look nice, are resistant to rust and scratches, and they don’t leach harmful materials into the compost. Plastic is also a common choice, especially for cheaper or larger bins. However, plastic is often not as sturdy as stainless steel and can potentially leach harmful chemicals into your compost, which can be a problem if you’re planning on using it in your garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an indoor compost bin and how does it work?
An indoor composting bin is simply a compost bin that is designed for indoor use. They are typically more aesthetically pleasing than most outdoor bins, and they are much less smelly in most cases. There are two main composting methods: composting and vermicomposting. Composting, also called aerobic composting, uses microbes from soil to convert kitchen waste into compost. Vermicomposting uses organisms like worms to break down the compost. Typically, most indoor compost bins are going to use aerobic composting.
What foods can be composted indoors?
You can compost whatever foods you can outside inside. The only foods that are typically off-limits are meats and dairy because they can result in bacteria growth that can make you and your plants sick. Fruit and veggies scraps, coffee grounds, bread, herbs, tea bags, and most organic kitchen waste can be composted. You can even compost things like cardboard and grass clippings as long as they do not contain chemicals.
Does a compost bin need air holes?
Air is vital to ensure sufficient decomposition. Most indoor compost bins come with air holes already installed. That is why they also often include a charcoal filter. If your compost bin doesn’t come with holes, you can always drill some in the lid.
Can I compost in an apartment?
Absolutely. Indoor compost bins work very well for apartments because they take up little space.
Other Indoor Compost Bins We Reviewed
We also reviewed 20 other indoor compost bins. While they didn’t make our top indoor compost bin list, they’re the best of the rest, and each is still a great option for your home. The information you’ll need to compare each product is included in the listing.
- Best Dry Indoor Compost Bin
- Best Large Indoor Compost Bin
- Best Small Indoor Compost Bin
- Best Indoor Compost Bucket
Best Dry Indoor Compost Bin
ARTKETTY Vintage Kitchen Compost Bin
This compost bin is able to hold the food scraps of a family of 4 for around 3-4 days and comes in an attractive vintage farmhouse design. While this listing has no reviews, similar examples show high customer satisfaction.
Key Features:
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
- 1.3-gallon capacity
- Vintage design
Cost: $35.00
This compost bin is simple and stylish. It comes with two dishwasher-safe filters. Buyers loved the design of the product as well as its quality.
Key Features:
- Bamboo handle for easy transportation
- Made from zero waste materials
- Comes in two colors
Cost: $39.00
Chef’n EcoCrock Counter Compost Bin
This bin has an adorable sprout design and is easy to clean with warm water. Customers loved the design and stated how ideal it was for use as an attractive kitchen container too!
Key Features:
- Comes with two filters
- 0.75-gallon capacity
- Quirky design
Cost: $40.00
This bin is available in multiple sizes and quantities to suit all types of kitchen. While some customers did find elements of this product misleading, most found this compost bin was the perfect fit for their homes.
Key Features:
- Stainless steel
- 1.3-gallon capacity
- Affordable
Cost: $20.00
mDesign Compost Pail Bin with Handle
This compost pail has a double filtration system and comes with five replacement filters. Customers were impressed with the quality of this product.
Key Features:
- Stainless steel
- 1.3-gallon capacity
- Double filtration system
Cost: $35.00
Norpro Ceramic Floral Blue/White Compost Keeper
Featuring a pretty floral design, the Norpro compost keeper will perfectly blend in with many kitchen styles. While some customers had an issue with the ceramic bin, others praised it for its large capacity.
Key Features:
- Ceramic
- 3-quart capacity
- Pretty floral design
Cost: $30.00
Spigo Indoor Kitchen Compost Bin
Spigo’s compost bin has a removable inner basket, which makes transporting your kitchen compost easy. Customers were impressed that the bin gave off no odor and could go without being emptied for several days.
Key Features:
- Affordable
- 1-gallon capacity
- Removable inner basket
Cost: $23.00
Best Large Indoor Compost Bin
Abakoo Stainless Steel Compost Bin
Made of high-quality stainless steel, this compost bin won’t rust or leach toxins into your compost. Customers really liked how easy it was to wash as well as how effective it was for keeping odors at bay.
Key Features:
- Handle for easy transportation
- 1.3-gallon capacity
- Made of stainless steel
Cost: $30.00
Food Cycle Science Platinum Indoor Food Recycler
Ideal for those passionate about waste reduction, this product is not only a compost container; it will also break down and recycle your scraps in 3-hour cycles. Some buyers did find they had issues with potential design flaws, but for others, it was the product of their eco dreams!
Key Features:
- Modern Design
- Composts food in 3-hour cycles
- Luxury product
Cost: $300.00
Green Hills Health Kitchen Compost Bin
This compost bin can hold 1.3 gallons and is made from food grade stainless steel. Buyers praised this product for its functionality and cute design.
Key Features:
- Pretty design
- 1.3-gallon capacity
- Made of food grade stainless steel
Cost: $33.00
SCD Probiotics K100 All Seasons Indoor Composter Kit
This compost kit comes with everything you need to start composting your kitchen scraps. A strainer helps to strain out the waste to prevent spoilage, and a spigot makes for easy removal of “compost” tea to help fertilize your garden.
Key Features:
- Airtight lid
- Strainer to remove moisture
- Spigot
Cost: $47.00
Vdomus Indoor Kitchen Stainless Steel Compost Bin
This compost bin is made of stainless steel and will not leach toxins into your compost, ensuring the end product remains plant safe. Buyers really liked how this product looked on their countertops!
Key Features:
- Comes with a free gift
- 1.3-gallon capacity
- Stainless steel
Cost: $23.00
Best Small Indoor Compost Bin
Gardenatomy Kitchen Compost Pail Bin
Finished in copper, this compost bin would be an inconspicuous fit to many modern kitchens. Customers adore this product, praising it for its durability as well as how easy it is to clean.
Key Features:
- Handle for easy transport
- 1-gallon capacity
- Stainless steel with a copper coating
Cost: $27.00
OXO Good Grips Easy Clean Compost Bin
This product features a flip up/down lid which is convenient to use when your hands are messy or full. Customers with small kitchens found this product ideal but did find it wasn’t dishwasher safe.
Key Features:
- Comes in 2 colors
- 12 cup capacity
- Affordable
Cost: $20.00
Tenby Living Food Waste Compost Bin
This product is small with a cute design and a convenient handle for easy transportation. Customers loved the product they received for the price paid.
Key Features:
- Cute sprout design
- 1-gallon average capacity
- Affordable
Cost: $13.00
The Relaxed Gardener Kitchen Compost Bin
This product is perfect for even the busiest of chefs as it can be opened with just one hand. Customers loved how this product blended into the kitchen as well as how easy it was to clean.
Key Features:
- Can be opened with one hand
- 0.8-gallon capacity
- Rustproof
Cost: $25.00
Best Indoor Compost Bucket
Kitchen Craft 3 L Compost Pedal Bin
This product is easily opened by used the pedal on its base and, when full, has an internal bin which can be removed with ease. Those who bought this product really liked its compact size.
Key Features:
- Pedal Bin
- 3-liter capacity
- Has internal bin
Cost: $23.00
Litem Food Waste Bin Caddy With Double Bucket
This bucket has an easy to remove interior and an external handle for general ease of transportation.
Key Features:
- Has an internal bucket
- 1-gallon capacity
- Comes in two colors
Cost: $40.00
Polder has 41 years of manufacturing experience, and this composter made by the brand features a unique silicone design which inverts to release its contents. Customers have found this to be the ultimate alternative to traditional compost bins or pails.
Key Features:
- Satisfaction guarantee
- 1-gallon capacity
- Unique design
Cost: $30.00
Uncle Jim’s Kitchen BLACK Stainless Steel Compost Bin
This bin is durable and can hold several days’ worth of food scraps without overflowing. Customers appreciated its black design, as many other bins on the market come in white or gray.
Key Features:
- Stainless steel
- 1-gallon capacity
- Includes charcoal filter
Cost: $25.00
