How to Make a Compost Bin Garbage Can

Overview

Composting is an excellent way to take household and yard wastes and reuse them as organic compost or fertilizer. This process saves on trips to the garbage dump by reducing the amount of wastes that you have. Composting also reduces the need for chemical fertilizers. It is one of the most natural ways of recycling, because it follows along with decay and replenishing that occurs in forest floors. Not only is it good for the environment, it is also easy and inexpensive to do.

Step 1

Choose a garbage can with a lid so that you can keep animals and rodents out of your compost. A lid will also keep the smell to a minimum. The can should be shallow enough that you can reach the bottom to stir it up but should not be so shallow that you cannot get a sufficient amount of compost in the can.

Step 2

Drill 1/4-inch circles into the sides of the garbage can. The holes should be placed 4 to 6 inches apart from one another all around the circumference of the can. Drill two to three rows of the holes. Drill a few holes in the bottom of the can as well. This will prevent the water from settling in the bottom of the can. It will also allow for drainage of excess moisture and air flow.

Step 3

Put a 2- to 3-inch layer of sawdust in the bottom of the garbage can. You can also use tree bark, wood chips or straw if you do not have sawdust. The sawdust will also aid in the absorption of excess moisture and will help the compost drain so that it will not remain saturated.

Step 4

Add earthworms to the garbage can if you would like to have a faster breakdown of organic material. The earthworms will help break down all of the biodegradable materials.

Step 5

Place your garbage composter in a warm place. A basement is a good place to put the composter, because it will be in a convenient location to add wastes.

Step 6

Tie the lid onto the garbage can so that it will not spill if it gets knocked over. Run the rope through the handles and the lid and keep it tied tightly.