Introduction: Composting starts with the right size

Composting is rapidly gaining popularity — and for good reason. It’s a sustainable way to turn kitchen and garden waste into nutrient-rich compost. But anyone looking to buy a compost bin is immediately faced with an important question: how big should the compost bin I buy be? This choice is crucial. A bin that’s too small will lead to frustration and overflow, while one that’s too large may slow down the composting process.

In this article, we explain how to choose the right size compost bin for your situation. We’ll cover waste volume, household size, garden type, and composting frequency. This way, you’ll make a well-informed decision and enjoy optimal composting results.

Why the right compost bin size matters

A compost bin works best when it’s properly filled — not too empty, and not overflowing. The breakdown of organic material requires a balanced ratio of moisture, oxygen, and mass. Too little volume results in poor heating and slow composting. Too much material without enough aeration leads to rotting and odors.

In short, the right compost bin size affects:

• Composting speed
• Odor control
• Ease of use
• Garden space usage
• Efficient waste management

Factors that determine the ideal size

1. Size of your household

The amount of organic waste you produce directly relates to the number of people in your household:

Household Size Average Organic Waste/Week Recommended Compost Bin
1–2 people 5–10 liters 100–150 liters
3–4 people 10–20 liters 200–300 liters
5+ people 20–40 liters 300–600 liters

Also consider pets or other sources of compostable waste.

2. Garden waste vs. kitchen waste

If you have a large garden, your garden waste may exceed your kitchen waste. Think grass clippings, leaves, prunings. In that case, opt for a larger compost bin or consider an open compost heap as an addition.

Tip: Do you generate lots of wet kitchen waste? Mix it with dry leaves or shredded cardboard for the ideal carbon-to-nitrogen ratio.

3. Composting frequency

If you want to compost continuously, you’ll need at least two bins: one for active use, one for maturing. This way, you always have one bin available without interruption. Each bin should hold 3–6 months' worth of waste.

4. Available space

Have a city garden or balcony? Then choose a compact bin (50–150 liters) or a rotating compost tumbler. For larger gardens, a stable compost bin of 300 to 600 liters is recommended.

Compost bin sizes explained

Let’s take a closer look at some common sizes:

100–150 liters: ideal for starters or small households

• For 1 to 2 people
• Fits on balconies or small urban gardens
• Fast composting possible with regular turning

200–300 liters: suitable for families

• For families of up to 4 people
• Handles both kitchen and garden waste
• Popular size due to versatility

400–600 liters: for large gardens and intensive use

• For households with 5 or more people
• Plenty of room for grass, leaves, and kitchen waste
• Ensure proper aeration

Real-life experiences: what compost bin works best?

At Doika, we often hear feedback from customers about their composting setups. Here are some real-life examples:

“We’re a family of three and chose a 300-liter compost bin. It’s perfect. In summer, it fills up in two months; in winter, it takes longer. Thanks to the ventilation holes, there’s minimal odor.”
– The Van der Velde family, Ghent

“Our family of five produces a lot of organic waste. So we have two 400-liter bins. While one matures, we fill the other.”
– Pieter, Leuven

“As a single person, I was worried composting would be a hassle. But my 100-liter bin fits perfectly on the balcony. I use compost accelerator and turn it regularly – ideal!”
– Ines, Antwerp

Common mistakes when choosing a compost bin

Watch out for these pitfalls:

• Buying too small: Cheaper, but fills up quickly. You’ll end up with excess waste.
• Ignoring garden waste: Garden waste takes up a lot of space.
• Focusing only on price: Cheap bins may lack ventilation or insulation.
• Not buying a second bin: Without a second bin, composting halts while one batch matures.
• No location plan: Choose a shaded spot with good drainage.

How Doika helps you choose

At Doika, we believe in sustainable living made easy. That’s why we offer a carefully curated selection of compost bins in various sizes, styles, and materials:

• Insulated bins for faster breakdown
• Rotating models for convenience
• Dual-chamber bins
• Eco-friendly models made from recycled plastic
• Compact city bins

Our product pages include clear specifications, customer reviews, and helpful tips. Plus, we offer free advice via chat or email.

Practical tips for making the most of any size

• Chop coarse material into small pieces: It fills the bin more efficiently and speeds up decomposition.
• Balance wet and dry waste: Prevent rotting or drying out.
• Use a compost accelerator in cold weather
• Don’t move the bin too often: It disturbs the composting process.
• Check for clogs or inactivity regularly

How do you know your compost bin is full?

A bin is “full” when you can’t mix in new material without overflow. Stop adding and let it mature (6–12 weeks). Start a new bin in the meantime.

Tip: Use a screen to separate large bits from ready-to-use compost.

Alternatives when space is limited: worm bins or bokashi buckets

Living in an apartment? Consider:

• Worm bin: Compact, low-odor, great for indoor use.
• Bokashi bucket: Ferments organic waste instead of composting. Perfect for kitchen scraps and limited space.

Why Doika is a trusted choice

Experience

We work with suppliers specialized in eco-friendly garden solutions. Our customer service team has hands-on experience with gardening and composting.

Expertise

Doika regularly publishes in-depth blog articles, buying guides, and how-to content on sustainability. We delve deep into materials, techniques, and user insights.

Authority

With thousands of satisfied customers, positive reviews, and a wide product range, Doika has become a leading name in eco garden solutions in Belgium and the Netherlands.

Trust

• ✔ 90-day return policy
• ✔ Free shipping from €40
• ✔ Secure payments via trusted methods
• ✔ Customer rating: 4.5/5 on Trustpilot

Summary: what compost bin should I buy?

• Small households (1–2 people): 100–150 liters
• Average family (3–4 people): 200–300 liters
• Large family or lots of garden waste: 400–600 liters
• Want compost always available? Invest in 2 bins

Consider your waste volume, available space, composting goals, and usage frequency. Doika is here to help you make the right choice.

Choose your perfect compost bin today

Want to make the most of your kitchen and garden waste? Start composting the right way today. Explore our selection of compost bins in various sizes and order with confidence.

👉 Visit our compost bin collection and start sustainable composting

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