However, composting in an apartment can seem like a challenge.

Will composting in an apartment attract bugs?

Will the smell from composting overpower a small space?

Food scraps poured into plastic bin with soil inside for composting

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

What Is Compost?

Compost is a natural, earthy substance that results from the decomposition of organic matter.

Finished compost looks like soil, with a dark color and fine texture.

Materials and tools to make an apartment composter

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

What Can I Compost?

These items are generally not recommended to be added to a composter.

Many people will find that a simplecompost bin made from plastic containersis the easiest way to get started.

Electric drill adding holes to side of plastic bin for composting

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

These holes will allow for airflow that is essential to the decomposition process.

These holes will allow liquid to drain into the second plastic bin.

Fill With Soil

Set the plastic bin with holes inside of the second plastic bin.

Electric drill adding holes to bottom of plastic bin for composting

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

Finish With Absorbent Material

Your composter is ready for use!

Add organic waste to the top bin of your composter.

Be sure to cover it with newspaper or sawdust to absorb excess moisture andprevent mold and odors.

Soil added to plastic bin for composting

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

Cover your composter with the lid after adding material.

The composter will take at least a few months (or more) to fully break down waste.

How to Use Compost

Compost is very beneficial as asoil amendmentfor your garden or for potted plants.

Newspaper strips added on top of food scraps in compost bin

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

In addition, the liquid produced by the composting process is full of nutrients.

Many people use this “compost tea” to fertilize houseplants or in the garden.

United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Compost bin emptied and cleaned in kitchen sink with running water

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo