Introduction: Why everyone with a garden should consider a compost bin

Composting is rapidly gaining popularity — and for good reason. More and more people want to live consciously, reduce waste, and enrich their gardens naturally. But how do you get started with composting? And what exactly does a compost bin do? In this blog, we dive into the world of compost bins: how they work, why they're a smart investment, and how you can get the most out of them. Whether you're a beginner gardener or a seasoned green enthusiast, this guide is your starting point for more sustainable gardening.

What is a compost bin?

A compost bin is a specially designed container in which organic waste naturally breaks down into compost. It typically has a cylindrical shape, is made of durable plastic or wood, and features a lid and ventilation openings.

Main features:

• Closed system: protects against rain, pests, and odors.
• Speeds up the composting process by retaining heat.
• Compact: ideal for small gardens or urban spaces.

Link to compost bin category

Why compost with a compost bin?

1. Reduces household waste

According to OVAM, on average, 40% of our household waste consists of organic material. Composting this not only saves on waste costs, but also contributes to a circular economy.

2. Free and natural fertilizer

Compost is gold for your garden. It improves soil structure, increases humus content, and stimulates soil life. With a compost bin, you create high-quality fertilizer at no cost.

3. Lower CO₂ emissions

Waste that ends up in incinerators emits greenhouse gases. Composting locally significantly reduces this impact.

How does a compost bin work?

Composting in a bin relies on three basic elements: organic material, oxygen, and moisture.

Step-by-step process:

1. Input of waste: Fill the bin with kitchen and garden waste.
2. Microbial breakdown: Bacteria and fungi break down the material.
3. Temperature increase: The enclosed space traps heat and speeds up the process.
4. Decomposition: After 6 to 12 weeks, the compost is ready to use.

What can go into a compost bin?

• ✔ Fruit and vegetable scraps
• ✔ Coffee grounds and tea bags
• ✔ Eggshells
• ✔ Prunings
• ✔ Leaves and grass

What should you avoid?

• ✘ Cooked food or meat
• ✘ Dairy products
• ✘ Diseased plants or weeds with seeds
• ✘ Dog or cat feces

What’s the difference between a compost heap and a compost bin?

Feature	Compost Heap	Compost Bin
Location	Larger gardens	Small gardens or balconies
Appearance	Open and visible	Closed and tidy
Odor control	More difficult	Better
Temperature control	Limited	Efficient
Time savings	Slow	Faster composting process

A compost bin is ideal for those who want fast results and a neat garden.

Tips for successful composting

1. Balance ‘brown’ and ‘green’ materials

• Green (nitrogen-rich): kitchen waste, fresh grass
• Brown (carbon-rich): dry leaves, cardboard, straw

2. Aerate regularly

Mix the contents or rotate the bin (for rotating models) to provide oxygen. This greatly accelerates the composting process.

3. Keep moisture balanced

The contents should feel like a wrung-out sponge. Too dry? Add fresh green waste. Too wet? Add brown materials like paper or wood shavings.

4. Use a compost thermometer

This helps track progress. Ideal composting temperatures range between 40 and 60 °C.

How long does it take to make compost?

The speed depends on the type of bin, temperature, waste types, and mixing frequency. On average:

• Fast compost bins: 6 to 8 weeks
• Standard bins: 3 to 6 months
• No intervention: up to 12 months

Case study: Marie from Ghent

Marie started composting in her city garden in 2023. She bought a compact 200-liter compost bin from Doika. After three months, she noticed not only less waste in her household trash but also healthier plants and reduced spending on potting soil. “I can’t live without it anymore,” she says.

Common composting mistakes (and how to avoid them)

❌ Only using wet waste

Make sure to add enough dry material to prevent odors and poor aeration.

❌ No aeration

A non-aerated bin can lead to anaerobic decay and bad smells. Mix weekly.

❌ Underfilling the bin

A half-full bin remains too cool. Fill it at least two-thirds for effective results.

❌ Adding meat or fish scraps

This attracts pests and can introduce harmful bacteria.

Which compost bin is right for you?

At Doika, you’ll find a wide selection of compost bins suited to your needs:

• Small household? Choose a 200–300 liter bin.
• Large family or lots of garden waste? Choose a 400-liter bin or larger.
• Don’t want to mix manually? Go for a rotating compost bin.

View all compost bins at Doika

Doika’s expertise in gardening and sustainability

Doika has been a trusted partner in sustainable garden products for years. Our compost bins are selected for quality, ease of use, and long-term durability. We offer:

• Free shipping from €40
• 90-day return policy
• 4.5/5 customer rating on Trustpilot

We’re also happy to help with advice, installation tips, and maintenance instructions.

Summary: Why a compost bin is a smart choice

✔ Reduces household waste
✔ Provides free, natural fertilizer
✔ Improves your garden and plant health
✔ Easy to use
✔ Contributes to sustainability

Whether you want to reduce your environmental footprint, grow healthier plants, or simply produce less waste — a compost bin is the ideal investment for any garden lover.

Start composting today

Ready to make your garden greener and healthier? Explore our range of compost bins at Doika and choose the model that fits your needs. Have questions or need personal advice? Feel free to contact us — our team is here to help.

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