Do you ever look at your food scraps and yard waste and wonder where it all goes? That banana peel and those fallen leaves create a lot of trash! Many of us want to help the planet by composting, but staring at the dozens of compost bins available can feel overwhelming. Should you pick a tumbler, a simple pile, or a fancy enclosed system? Each option has pros and cons, and choosing the wrong one can lead to smelly messes or slow decomposition.
Don’t let confusion stop you from creating amazing, nutrient-rich soil for your garden. This guide cuts through the noise. We will explore the best types of backyard compost bins for different needs and spaces. You will learn exactly what features matter most, making your composting journey simple and successful from day one.
Ready to turn your waste into garden gold? Let’s dive in and find the perfect compost bin for your backyard!
Top Backyard Compost Bin Recommendations
No. 1
VIVOSUN Outdoor Tumbling Composter Dual Rotating Batch Compost Bin, 43 Gallon Black Door
- Twin chambers: Two separate chambers allow one side to finish composting while leaving the other side available to add fresh wastes; Constant alternation of the two sides will create an uninterrupted stream of nutritious compost
- 360⁰ Tumbling Design: The rotating design prevents you from digging or mixing the pile by hand; And the deep fins on eight panels make it easier to turn the compost bin
- Excellent Aeration: Air vents can make the air fully circulate and will not cause an explosion due to excessive internal pressure; Deep fins can better break the clumps, which is conducive to the full fermentation of oxygen
- Sturdy & Durable Construction: Constructed of premium metal frame and high-quality pp plastic body, this tumbling composter is corrosion-resistant, weathering-resistant, sturdy, and durable for long-lasting service life
- Garden Gloves Included: The gloves that not only protect your hands from injury, but are also waterproof, making them easy to clean; With 4 durable ABS plastic claws for easy digging, planting and other gardening work
No. 2
OLIXIS Compost Bin Outdoor 37 Gallon, Separated Dual Chamber Composter Tumbler Outdoor with Gloves, Efficient 360°Rotating Composting Bin for Patio, Lawn, Home Gardening and Landscape, Green
- 37 Gallon Large Capacity: OLIXIS outdoor compost bin features a spacious separated dual chamber design for continuous composting. Process fresh scraps and finished compost at the same time, improving efficiency and increasing compost output.
- Efficient 360°Rotation: Our advanced rotation design compost tumbler eliminates manual mixing, providing a clean and quick solution. Multiple aeration vents provide optimal oxygen flow, ensuring a uniform mix for faster decomposition and rich, nutrient-dense organic compost.
- Heavy-Duty Durability: Constructed from reinforced PP material and a sturdy iron frame, this compost tumbler withstands rain, cold, and corrosion, engineered for long-lasting performance and reliable composting in diverse weather conditions.
- Rapid Organic Decomposition: The black exterior of this composting bin absorbs sunlight, maintaining optimal internal temperatures for accelerated decomposition. You can turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich compost in just four to six weeks, boosting garden health.
- Enhanced Garden Fertility: Utilize our outdoor compost bin to transform a wide variety of organic materials, including leaves, grass clippings, and food waste, into valuable fertilizer,which enriches your soil naturally, promoting healthier plant growth and a thriving garden ecosystem.
No. 3
FCMP Outdoor IM4000 Dual Chamber Tumbling Composter Canadian-Made, 100% Recycled Resin - Outdoor Rotating Compost Tumbler Bin for Garden, Kitchen, and Yard Waste, Black (37 Gallon)
- Made in Canada from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic - The original 8-sided dual chamber tumbling composter.
- Efficient Dual-Chamber Composting: Avoid digging and mixing your compost pile by hand. This 8-sided, 37-gallon (5 cu ft) composter bin features a dual-chamber design that produces a steady flow of nutrient-rich compost, letting you recycle kitchen and yard waste with ease.
- Easy and Simple: Rotate 5–6 times every 2–3 days for optimal results. In warm, sunny conditions and with balanced ingredients, compost can be ready in as little as two weeks.
- Continuous Composting System: Use one chamber to cure compost while adding fresh scraps and clippings to the other, ensuring a constant supply of ready-to-use compost for your yard or garden.
- Easy Turning and Aeration: Deep fins provide a secure grip for rotating and help break up clumps, while aeration holes mix oxygen into the compost for better airflow and faster decomposition.
No. 4
VEVOR Garden Compost Bin 80 Gallon, BPA Free Composter, Large Capacity Outdoor Composting Bin with Top Lid and Bottom Door, Easy Assembling, Lightweight, Fast Creation of Fertile Soil
- Four-Sided Ventilation: Each side of our garden compost bin features ventilation, providing excellent airflow for composting. This allows for faster production of nutrient-rich compost.
- Ample Storage Space: With a storage capacity of up to 80 gal/300 L, this large outdoor compost bin can hold a substantial amount of materials, reducing the frequency of operations. It's perfect for storing and transferring compost or yard waste.
- Added Top Lid and Bottom Door: Our worm compost bin comes with a convenient and secure lid to prevent critters from getting into food scraps and prevent wind from blowing over it. The lid can be easily opened and closed with one hand. The top locking and the bottom pull-out door also make it easy to shovel out compost.
- UV-Resistant Material: BPA-free! Use this worm bin with peace of mind. It can withstand outdoor conditions, even in the coldest winters. Additionally, the black PP plastic effectively retains heat and regulates water, thereby speeding up the composting process.
- Easy Installation: Installation is quick and easy, making assembly a breeze! Easy to assemble the worm composter outdoor and can be completed in just 5 minutes!
No. 5
Outsunny Garden Compost Bin 80 Gallon Outdoor Large Capacity Composter Fast Create Fertile Soil Aerating Box, Easy Assembly, Black
- 80 Gallon Large Capacity: This outdoor compost bin can hold up to 80 gallons of food waste. The compost machine reduces the frequency of operation compared with smaller sizes for highly efficient composting and fermentation.
- Great Circulation System: In this outdoor composter, twelve air vents (total 48) are on each side, which allows the air to circulate, absorb oxygen, and create a highly efficient fermentation process.
- 6-12 Week Processing Time: Limit your waste and save budget by adding a composting bin to your backyard. Fill your container with organic waste or kitchen leftovers; then, in 1-3 months, you can enrich your soil by turning your household waste into fertile soil.
- Easy to Assemble: No tools needed, simply clip the pieces together and the compost tumbler will be ready to go. Snap-On Lid: Keep away pesky critters from your valuable food scraps and prevent the wind from knocking over the bin.
- Outdoor Composting Tumblers Information: Overall size: 23.75''L x 23.75''W x 32''H; Capacity: 80 Gallon
No. 6
THEGROW'ING Updated 43 Gallon Outdoor Compost Bin. with Thermometer, Fast to Assemble. Tumbling Design, Dual Chambers. Rotating Function, Ideal for Outside, Backyard, Garden, Yard. Orange.
- Save 80% Time: Unlike traditional tumbling compost bins, our upgraded rotating compost bin features a built-in internal nut system, making setup faster and simpler. No need to hold nuts from the outside—just screw and go! This innovation cuts assembly time in less than 10 mins, making it the ideal compost machine for first-timers or busy gardeners. A must-have for anyone searching for a compost bin outdoor large, compost bin for garden, or garden compost bin that's quick to assemble.
- Temperature visualization design: Equipped with a brand-new visual thermometer, allowing you to monitor temperature changes at any time throughout the composting process, greatly improving the success rate of composting.
- Fast Aeration & Mixing – Ready in Weeks: Internal air vents ensure proper oxygen flow, helping your scraps break down faster. With the built-in compost turner design, all you need is a spin to mix the contents. Combined with its heat-absorbing black and brown exterior, this tumbler compost bin speeds up the composting cycle naturally. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, it’s a reliable outdoor compost bin tumbler or compost barrel that gets the job done fast.
- Built to Last – Heavy-Duty & Weatherproof: Crafted from BPA-free PP plastic and a sturdy powder-coated steel frame, our outdoor composting bin is made to withstand rain, wind, and heat. Even during storms, it stays upright and stable. Ideal for anyone needing a compost bin outdoor, garden composter, or composters bins outdoor that won’t crack or rust. This is the dependable outdoor composter you've been looking for.
- 43-Gallon Capacity, Compact Footprint: Holding up to 43 gallons, this large compost bin is surprisingly space-saving. Perfect for backyards, patios, and tight outdoor spaces. Whether you’re looking for a compost bin clearance, a small outdoor compost bin, or a composter outdoor that won’t take over your yard, this bin delivers. It’s not just a composer bin, it’s a smart solution for eco-conscious homes.
No. 7
Redmon Outdoor Compost Bin with Lift Off Lid, 4-Door Access & Vent Holes, 65 Gallon, Black - Composting Bin Container for Kitchen Food Waste Recycling
- Outdoor Composting Bin: Compost bin container properly vents organic materials to allow rapid and proper composting of waste providing a ready supply of nutrient-rich compost to nourish your garden
- Made with Quality Materials: Constructed using 80 percent recycled materials and designed to withstand weather and outdoor conditions ensuring durability and long-lasting performance
- Convenient Extra Features: Has a lift-off lid and 4-door access providing easy access to fully composted material making your composting process hassle-free and efficient using the composting bin
- Sizeable Capacity: Large capacity 65-gallon outdoor compost bin is the ideal solution for creating nutrient-rich compost to enhance the fertility of your garden and backyard soil
- Dimensions and Specifications: Assembly requires no tools for easy outdoor composter bin set up to quickly get you started with composting in no time; Measures (L x W x H): 26 x 26 x 30.75 inches
No. 8
THEGROW'ING Updated 43 Gallon Compost Bin Outdoor, Fast Assemble Tumbling Composter, Dual Chamber Composter Tumbler, Rotating Compost Bin for Outside, Backyard, Garden and Yard, Orange
- Save 80% Time: Unlike traditional tumbling compost bins, our upgraded rotating compost bin features a built-in internal nut system, making setup faster and simpler. No need to hold nuts from the outside—just screw and go! This innovation cuts assembly time in less than 10 mins, making it the ideal compost machine for first-timers or busy gardeners. A must-have for anyone searching for a compost bin outdoor large, compost bin for garden, or garden compost bin that's quick to assemble.
- Dual-Chamber System for Continuous Composting: Unlike single-barrel options, our dual chamber compost tumbler lets you keep one side composting while you fill the other. This keeps the cycle going with no delays. It's the ultimate compost maker for turning food and yard waste into rich soil on repeat. Whether you're into composting bins, composters tumbling or rotating outdoor, or just need a smart compost box, this bin keeps your garden nourished all year long.
- Fast Aeration & Mixing – Ready in Weeks: Internal air vents ensure proper oxygen flow, helping your scraps break down faster. With the built-in compost turner design, all you need is a spin to mix the contents. Combined with its heat-absorbing black and brown exterior, this tumbler compost bin speeds up the composting cycle naturally. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, it’s a reliable outdoor compost bin tumbler or compost barrel that gets the job done fast.
- Built to Last – Heavy-Duty & Weatherproof: Crafted from BPA-free PP plastic and a sturdy powder-coated steel frame, our outdoor composting bin is made to withstand rain, wind, and heat. Even during storms, it stays upright and stable. Ideal for anyone needing a compost bin outdoor, garden composter, or composters bins outdoor that won’t crack or rust. This is the dependable outdoor composter you've been looking for.
- 43-Gallon Capacity, Compact Footprint: Holding up to 43 gallons, this large compost bin is surprisingly space-saving. Perfect for backyards, patios, and tight outdoor spaces. Whether you’re looking for a compost bin clearance, a small outdoor compost bin, or a composter outdoor that won’t take over your yard, this bin delivers. It’s not just a composer bin, it’s a smart solution for eco-conscious homes.
The Ultimate Backyard Compost Bin Buying Guide
Turning your kitchen scraps and yard waste into rich, dark compost is great for your garden. A good compost bin makes this job much easier. This guide helps you pick the best one for your backyard.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, look closely at what the bin offers. These features decide how well and how easily the bin works.
1. Capacity and Size
- Volume: How much space do you have? Smaller yards need a 50-gallon bin. Larger gardens might need 100 gallons or more.
- Footprint: Measure the space where the bin will sit. Make sure you have room around it to turn the pile.
2. Ease of Access and Harvesting
- Access Door: A good bin has a door at the bottom. This lets you easily scoop out finished compost without digging through the top.
- Lid Type: The lid should keep rain out but allow air in. A hinged lid is often easiest to use when adding new scraps.
3. Aeration and Ventilation
- Compost needs oxygen to break down quickly. Look for bins with built-in vents or many small holes along the sides.
- Tumbler-style bins rotate, mixing the contents automatically. This speeds up the composting process a lot.
Important Materials Matter
The material your bin is made from affects its lifespan and how well it holds heat.
Plastic Bins (Polyethylene)
- **Pros:** They are light, affordable, and resist rot. They hold heat well, which helps speed up decomposition.
- **Cons:** Cheap plastic can become brittle and crack in strong sunlight over several years.
Wood Bins
- **Pros:** They look natural in the garden and can be built large. Cedar or treated wood lasts longer.
- **Cons:** Wood eventually rots and needs replacement. You must ensure the wood is not treated with harmful chemicals.
Metal Bins (Wire Mesh)
- **Pros:** These offer excellent airflow. They are often the cheapest option.
- **Cons:** They do not hold heat well, slowing down decomposition in cold weather. They can also look less tidy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The best bins help you maintain the right balance of “greens” (nitrogen) and “browns” (carbon).
Quality Boosters
- **Insulation:** Thicker walls (like in heavy-duty plastic or insulated tumblers) keep the pile warmer, making bacteria work faster.
- **Turning Mechanism:** Tumblers are the best for mixing. If you buy a stationary bin, make sure you can easily reach the center with a pitchfork or aerator tool.
Quality Reducers
- **Lack of Airflow:** If the bin is completely sealed, the material turns slimy and smelly because it lacks oxygen.
- **Pest Entry:** Bins without secure lids or small enough holes can attract rodents. Make sure the base is either open to the ground (good for worms) or screened tightly.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how much effort you want to put in. Your lifestyle dictates the best bin type.
For the Busy Gardener (Low Maintenance)
A large, stationary plastic bin with a good access door works well. You add materials when you have them, and nature does most of the work over a few months. Tumblers offer faster results but require regular turning.
For the Small-Space Dweller (Apartments/Patios)
Look at small, enclosed plastic bins or specialized worm composting systems (vermicomposting). These take up very little space and handle kitchen scraps efficiently.
For the High-Volume Producer (Large Gardens)
A multi-stage system, often using three separate wooden bins, is ideal. You fill one, let it cook, and then turn it into the second bin while starting a new pile in the first. This ensures a constant supply of finished compost.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Backyard Compost Bins
Q: What is the best size for a beginner’s compost bin?
A: A bin around 60 to 80 gallons is perfect. This size holds enough material to heat up properly but isn’t too big to manage by hand.
Q: Do I need a bin with a lid?
A: Yes. A lid keeps excess rain out, which prevents the pile from becoming waterlogged and smelly. It also deters pests.
Q: Can I put my compost bin directly on grass or dirt?
A: Placing it directly on soil or grass is best. This allows beneficial microbes and earthworms to enter the pile easily.
Q: How often should I turn the compost in a stationary bin?
A: For fast results, try to turn or mix the pile once a week. If you are patient, turning it once a month is often enough.
Q: What is the difference between a stationary bin and a tumbler?
A: A stationary bin sits still and you mix it manually. A tumbler is a sealed barrel mounted on an axis that you spin to mix the contents easily.
Q: Will a plastic bin melt in the summer sun?
A: Good quality, UV-resistant plastic bins will not melt. They might become brittle over many years, but they are designed to handle normal heat.
Q: Are metal wire bins good for cold climates?
A: They are not ideal because they lose heat quickly. If you use a wire bin in winter, you might need to insulate the outside with straw bales.
Q: How do I stop pests from getting into my bin?
A: Ensure the lid fits tightly. If using an open-bottom bin, you can lay hardware cloth (fine metal mesh) underneath it before setting it on the ground.
Q: What should I do if my bin smells like ammonia or rotten eggs?
A: This means you have too much “green” material (nitrogen) and not enough air. Add lots of dry “brown” materials like shredded paper or dry leaves, and turn the pile immediately.
Q: How long does it take to get finished compost?
A: With proper care and turning, you can get usable compost in 2 to 4 months. If you just let it sit, it might take 6 to 12 months.