Best Kitchen Compost Bins – Get the Right Bin For You

Best Kitchen Compost Bins
- Get the Right Bin For You

Best Kitchen Compost Bins

This post was last updated in 2023

Hey there, eco-conscious kitchen warriors! 🌱 
 
Are you on a mission to reduce your carbon footprint and transform your kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich compost?  Well kitchen compost bins are the first step in your composting journey. 
 
A good kitchen compost bin provides an easy, convienent and asthetically pleasing way to collect food waste before they go into an outdoor worm farm, compost bin, compost tumbler or council food organics bin. 
 

There’s a huge range of products out there and it can be hard to make the right choice. As covered in my guide to shopping for kitchen compost bins, there are a few things you need to keep in mind and it’s important to read product reviews to ensure you’re making an informed decision. 

 
Now, if you don’t have time to search through different product reviews, then this blog post is for you.
 
I’ve done an extensive review of the products out there and I have compiled a list of high-quality compost bins you can find in Australia.
 

Below I have provided a hand handy comparison chart, as well as written detailed reviews of each product. 

 
The reviews have been broken down as follows
Click on the category that most interests you or refer to the handy comparison table below. 

Comparison of Kitchen Compost Bins

Bin CapacitySizeMaterial Handle Wall MountFilter
Bokashi One Bucket20 L30 x 30 x 41 cmHDPE and LDPE with some recycled plasticYNN
Maze 18L Bokashi Indoor Compost Bin18L32 x 37 x 27 cmRecycled plasticYNN
ELPHECO Kitchen Compost Bin9L26 x 15x 28 cmPlasticNYN
MUGYPYR Small Kitchen Compost Bin7L19.1 x 14.5 x 24.4 cmPolypropyleneNYN
Aupekro Kitchen Compost Bin7L24 x 16 x 24cmPlasticNYN
Kmart Compost Bin6L24 x 20 x 12.5 cmPowder coated iron sheetYNY
Target Ezy Storage Compost Caddy Bin6L26.1 x 20.1 x 17.7 cmPlasticYNY
OXO Good Grips Easy Clean Compost Bin6.62L27.5 x 20.5 x 21.5 cmPlasticYNN
Full Circle Fresh Air Odor-Free Kitchen Compost Bin5.7L28.91 x 21.59 x 22.86 cmRecycled plastic and partly recycled steelNNN
Zenify Earth Stainless Steel Compost Bin Kitchen Countertop5L18 x 18 x 28.5 cmStainless SteelYNY
Joseph Joseph Stack 4 Food Waste Caddy4L9.3 x 7.8 x 6.3 cmPlasticYNY
Joseph Joseph Compo 4 Easy-fill food waste caddy4L12 x 29.7 x 17.3 cmPlasticYYN
Full Circle Scrap Happy Food Scrap Collector and Freezer Compost Bin2.2L21 x 13.3 x 14 cmSiliconeNYN
I have focused on bins you can find in Australia. Ideally, they all would have been Australian-made, however, it was difficult to find 100% Australian made products. 

 

I’ve only picked items I have used myself, bins that friends have recommended to me and those with strong reviews. And quality products only of course, based on the criteria I outlined in my last blog post

  
Minimally all products have secure well-made lids that seal well, they do not produce odors when used right and they do not attract pests. 
 
And I have scoured the reviews to ensure there is nothing fundamentally wrong with the bins listed. 

Not all of them are perfect, mind you. Any potential issues have been noted in the sections that follow. These are issues that can be overlooked, depending on your personal preferences.

Best Compost Kitchen Bin


The best compost kitchen bin available in Australia is The Bokashi One compost bin. However the best bin is a matter of personal choice as it comes down to the space you have, the quantity of food waste your household produces and the method of composting you are using.  
 
 
But if you have no restrictions in terms of space and method of composting, I would recommend the Bokashi One bin.
 
It’s a no-fuss, high-quality product that supports a method of composting that accelerates the whole process – the bokashi method.
 
If you don’t know much about bokashi, you can read more about that here 
 
The upshot is, that by using an airtight bin that allows liquid to drain along with sprinkling bokashi bran on your food waste, you are able to create “pre-composted” waste. You can collect waste that’s old without a single worry about pests or flies or anything!
 
I rate this bin better than any other product I have seen available in Australia because I know from personal use that this is a quality product that will last a long time, with proper care. 
 
Unfortunately, I had to get rid of it because it was too big for my tiny kitchen and it wasn’t something I could keep on our benchtop. Ended up getting a much smaller bin.
 
But if you have the space under your sink or at the bottom of your pantry walk-in or cupboard, I would go for this product.

What’s to like

  • Quality materials and construction
  • Large, holds a lot of waste
  • Easy to use tap to drain out bokashi juice
  • You can buy replacement parts
  • You can break down a lot of waste and bury it directly into your soil

What’s not to like

  • Takes up a lot of space
  • It’s an investment when compared to other options
  • The lid, while secure, is not easy to open and close (needs two hands)

>> Click here to check the price and read more reviews on Biome 

As I said, a lot of factors can go into deciding which bin is best for you. Which is why I have recommended other products based on specific needs…

Best Benchtop Compost Bins

If you are looking for a bench-top compost bin, you will need something relatively small and unobtrusive. Something you can use to contain your food waste over a couple of days and not have to worry about smells or attracting insects. Aesthetics are also an important consideration since it will be out for everyone to see.
 
Compost caddies are your best bet – smaller than your typical kitchen compost bin, designed to hold food waste collected over 2 – 3 days. And there are plenty of design options to choose from.
 
Keep in mind, these bins are smaller than other bins on the market. As such they will need to be emptied more frequently.
 
For some people, this is just the reality of their situation, due to space restrictions they have no choice. Others prefer this because they don’t want food waste that is weeks old sitting in their kitchen. 
 
So if this is what you are after, here is a list of the best compost caddies for your kitchen.
 
4.8/5
OXO Good Grips Easy Clean Compost Bin review

The OXO Good Grips Easy Clean Compost Bin is a kitchen countertop compost container known for its user-friendly design and odor control features.

 

The brand has a number of bins in various sizes but this one fits comfortably on countertops and features a hinged, airtight lid to seal in odors and prevent pests. It has ventilation for airflow, and its removable inner liner simplifies cleaning. Overall, it’s a popular choice for home composting, offering convenience and odor control.

What’s to like

  • Designed to keep the compost bag tucked away from sight
  • Easy-to-open lid
  • Smooth interior for easy cleaning
  • The internal bucket is removable and dishwasher-safe
  • Good quality materials

What’s not to like

  • Not the most cost-effective option out there (although it goes on sale often)

>> Click here to check the price and read more reviews on Amazon 

4.7/5
Zenify Earth Stainless Steel Compost Bin Kitchen Countertop

Stainless steel compost bins are known for their durability and resistance to corrosion. They are less likely to absorb odors or stain, compared to plastic bins.

 

These bins often come in a sleek and modern design and the Zenify Earth Stainless Steel Compost Bin is no exception. But the best thing about this particular bin – it comes from an Australian-owned company.

What’s to like

  • Made with premium 304 stainless steel which is made to last and suit any kitchen counter.
  • Ventilated to reduce moisture
  • Two layers of washable charcoal filters to stop odours.
  • Australian-owned family business 

What’s not to like

  • Could not find any issues that were consistently mentioned

>> Click here to check the price and read more reviews on Amazon 

4.4/5
Full Circle Fresh Air Odor-Free Kitchen Compost Bin review

The Full Circle Fresh Air Odor-Free Kitchen Compost Bin is a popular kitchen compost container known for its innovative design. 

 

It features a unique odor-fighting technology with a patented airflow system that allows air to circulate through the bin, effectively reducing and preventing unpleasant odors. Its compact and stylish design makes it suitable for kitchen countertops.

What’s to like

  • The compost bag tucks away neatly in the bin
  • The bag sealing feature makes sure the bag stays in place
  • One push button to open the lid
  • Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
  • It lets plenty of air into the bin
  • Made from recycled materials

What’s not to like

  • You need to use bags otherwise liquid could spill onto your bench (due to the air holes at the bottom)
  • The compostable bags they come with aren’t great
  • Not smooth inside so difficult to clean
  • Some have experienced issues cleaning it in a dishwasher (warps the plastic)

>> Click here to check the price and read more reviews on Amazon 

Have to admit, this bin doesn’t have the best reviews, which is why it’s at the bottom of this list. But the company has some great values, so I have placed this here as an option to consider.
 
Here’s a video from the company owners:

Best Kitchen Cupboard Bin for Your Compost

If you don’t like the idea of having a bin on your kitchen benchtop, then you need to get a kitchen cupboard bin. 
 
You’ll want your kitchen composting bin to fit neatly under a cupboard. Those mentioned in the previous section could do the trick, if the sizing is right. 
 
Or you could rely on bins that can hang off your cupboard doors or can be affixed to your cupboard doors, for those with very limited space for a bin. 
 
Here are the options that fit this criteria: 
 
4.6/5
ELPHECO Kitchen Compost Bin review

Sleek, simple and durable, the ELPHECO cabinet-hanging compost bin not only adds style to your space but also stands the test of time. What’s impressive is its versatility. With two installation options, including an adhesive strip for vertical surfaces and a door-hanging solution, it fits seamlessly into most spaces.

What’s to like

  • High-quality product
  • Easy to use  
  • Minimal parts, no-fuss product 
  • There are features to keep bags in place and out of sight 

What’s not to like

  • Could not find any issues that were consistently mentioned

>> Click here to check the price and read more reviews on Amazon 

4.6/5
MUGYPYR Small Kitchen Compost Bin review

The MUGYPYR Small Kitchen Compost Bin offers ultimate convenience by hanging on cabinet doors, eliminating the need to bend down when disposing of kitchen scraps. 

 

It fits most cabinet doors, pantries, and cupboards, making it versatile for various spaces. This bin features an Odor Lock Lid to seal in waste and prevent unwanted odors, ensuring a fresh-smelling kitchen. It’s easy to install with included mounting accessories, providing two installation options: hanging on any wall with adhesive hooks or on a door with an over-the-door hook for doors up to 94 inches thick.

What’s to like

  • Double rimmed so any bags you use stay in place
  • The bucket is thick and sturdy
  • Easy to clean

What’s not to like

  • It comes with plastic, not compostable, bags
  • The bags will not be out of sight when placed in the bin

>> Click here to check the price and read more reviews on Amazon 

4.2/5
Aupekro Kitchen Compost Bin review

The Aupekro Kitchen Compost Bin is durable, corrosion resistant and just as versatile as other options on this list. Hang it or wall-mount it, it is suitable for cabinet doors under 2.5cm thickness, eliminating the need to bend over when disposing of items. 

 

It effectively hides unpleasant smells and fruit flies, while its sleek design conceals unsightly trash bags. It is also easy to clean with a smooth, crevice-free surface.

What’s to like

  • can be hung on the kitchen cabinet door or attached to the wall with sticky hooks
  • easy to clean
  • two opening options for the lid (forward or back)

What’s not to like

  • bags will not be out of sight when placed in the bin
  • lid is light so it closes easily
  • lid does not seem sturdy

>> Click here to check the price and read more reviews on Amazon 

Best Small Compost Bin

If you are after a small compost bin, they do exist. 
 
Just be prepared, these won’t hold much food waste. Depending on how much waste you produce, you’ll probably need to empty these small bins daily. 
 
So if you are after a little kitchen compost bucket to hold a day’s worth (or so) of food waste then consider these options: 
 
4.7/5

Sleek, simple and durable, the ELPHECO cabinet-hanging compost bin not only adds style to your space but also stands the test of time. What’s impressive is its versatility.

 

With two installation options, including an adhesive strip for vertical surfaces and a door-hanging solution, it fits seamlessly into most spaces. 

What’s to like

  • High-quality product
  • You can use it on your benchtop or mount it on a cupboard door
  • Easy to clean
  • Easy-to-open lid
  • Air vents to reduce moisture
  • Wide opening
  • Aesthetic design

What’s not to like

  • Not dishwasher safe
  • Air vents could attract fruit flies so they will need to be closed
  • The lid does not lock shut
  • The screws that the mount comes with are not strong enough to hold the bin
  • The standard composting bag is too small for this bin
  • No removable inner section

>> Click here to check the price and read more reviews on Amazon 

Joseph Joseph Stack 4 Food Waste Caddy review

The product features a ventilated design that effectively reduces moisture and unpleasant odors, ensuring a fresher environment. Its lid comes equipped with a replaceable odor filter, and the flip-top design provides easy access. 

 

The compost bin boasts an easy-to-clean polypropylene body and a stainless-steel carry handle for durability and convenience. Additionally, it includes a liner-retaining hole inside to keep the liner tidy and streamline the composting process.

What’s to like

  • Aesthetically pleasing
  • Comes with handle
  • The airflow feature is unique and designed to reduce odours
  • The bag tucks away from sight
  • Wide opening

What’s not to like

  • No removable inner section
  • The lid doesn’t lock shut (very easy to open)
  • Doesn’t appear to be dishwasher safe

>> Click here to check the price and read more reviews on Amazon 

4.5/5
Full Circle Scrap Happy Food Scrap Collector review

The Full Circle Scrap Happy bin offers a convenient solution for collecting compostables not matter how small your space is. 

 

It attaches easily to a cabinet drawer with a wire rim, facilitating a hassle-free cleanup process as you can simply scoop scraps off your counter and into the bin. Moreover, this bin allows you to store compost in your freezer, keeping scraps frozen until composting time, effectively eliminating mess, odors, and fly-related issues associated with traditional composting methods.

What’s to like

  • You can hang it off a door or drawer
  • Small enough to store in your freezer to eliminate odour and flies 
  • Flexible silicone design empties easily
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Great product if you don’t mind emptying the bin every day 

What’s not to like

  • No lid so you can’t stack anything on top if you put it in the freezer
  • May not fit your freezer
  • You will have to empty this every day 

>> Click here to check the price and read more reviews on Amazon 

 
Truth is, I think for something so small in the 2 – 4 L category, you’re probably better off using something like an old yogurt tub or ice cream container. 
 
A bin to collect your food scraps doesn’t need to be fancy when you’re looking at this size – any container will do. 

Best Off-the-Shelf Compost Bins

So here I have looked at the best compost bins from three stores – Bunnings, Kmart and Target. 
 
Noting this upfront – my best pic from Bunnings is the Maze compost bin. 
 
I know Maze products don’t have the best reputation in the composting world. I will admit that I have a bit of a love-hate relationship with my Maze compost bin 
 
Some of their earlier models are a real pain in the arse. Many of them have rubber gaskets that are fitted to the inside of the lids but eventually fall out and keep dropping into your food waste. 
 
Such a pain!
 
But their newer models have addressed these issues and there have been real improvements made in this space. And this shows in recent reviews. 
 
4.3/5
Maze Bokashi Indoor Compost Bin review

This (relatively!) compact Bokashi composting system is perfect for kitchen use, efficiently transforming all food waste, including cooked food, meat, fish, and cheese, into nutrient-rich compost without generating unpleasant odors or attracting flies. 

 

It’s particularly ideal for those who wish to avoid frequent trips to an outdoor composter, making it suitable for the elderly or individuals with limited mobility.

 
This bin is an alternative to my favourite – the Bokashi One compost bin. You will need to use bokashi bran if you intend to collect food waste over several days.

What’s to like

  • Easy to use
  • New lids are very secure
  • The company will send replacement parts

What’s not to like

  • Models keep changing – make sure you don’t get ones with a rubber/ plastic inner gasket as it falls out

>> Click here to check the price and read more reviews from Bunnings

4.4/5
kmart compost bin review

Simple, no fuss, lightweight and easy to use. Even though it isn’t the most durable product on the market, it does the job on holding your kitchen scraps and keeping flies and odours at bay. 

What’s to like

  • Lids closes firmly
  • Rectangular shape means it fits into kitchen spaces easily

What’s not to like

  • You have to apply a bit of force to get the lid to open or close
  • They don’t last long and will eventually rust (in 4 – 5 years one user noted)
  • Can bend/ be bent easily

>> Click here to check the price and read more reviews on Kmart 

4.7/5
Target Ezy Storage Compost Caddy Bin review

If you want something around the same price point as the Kmart compost bin but prefer plastic over metal, then Target offers a good alternative. Also very simple, no fuss and easy to use, this bin from Target is not a bad option. 

 

However, there are limited reviews on this product and I do not know anyone that has used this so my assessment is based purely on initial inspection in store.

>> Click here to check the price and read more reviews on Target 

Ultimately, the “best” kitchen compost bin depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the size of your kitchen, your aesthetic preferences, and how frequently you cook and generate food waste and review the rangeof kitchen composting bins listed here to choose one that suits you. 
 
The key is to choose a bin that encourages you to compost regularly.
 
Remember, the journey to a greener, more sustainable lifestyle starts with small steps. By investing in the right kitchen compost bin, you’re not only reducing waste but also creating nutrient-rich compost to enrich your garden. It is through these conscious choices, we can collectively work towards a more sustainable future 🌍
 
xxx Tahsin 
A Heads Up: This post contains affiliate links that may earn me a small commission at no additional cost to you. Also as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I only recommend products and services that will help you take steps towards a more sustainable life and will never recommend anything that does not align, in some way, with these values.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *