Composting food scraps is one of the easiest ways to cut kitchen waste. But if you’ve ever dealt with a flimsy bin, fruit flies, or a cloud of smell when you lift the lid, you know not all bins are built the same.
In this guide, we’ve reviewed a mix of compact, durable, and easy-to-clean compost bins that actually work in real kitchens. Whether you cook once a day or live in a small apartment with no outdoor pile, there’s something here that fits your routine.
How to Pick the Right Compost Bin
If you cook often or have a larger household, choose a bin with a one-gallon capacity or larger. Smaller kitchens benefit from compact or hanging designs.
Odor control options:
- Carbon filters are low-maintenance and last several weeks.
- Ventilated bins reduce odor naturally, but work best if emptied frequently.
- Freezer bins eliminate odor entirely, assuming you have freezer space.
Keep the bin close to where you prep food so using it becomes second nature.
Now Designs Green
This countertop bin is made from powder-coated steel, which resists rust and wipes clean with minimal effort. The lid contains a replaceable carbon filter that helps neutralize odors as scraps collect. With a 1.25-gallon capacity, it’s well-sized for households of one to three people.
A sturdy metal handle makes it easy to carry to your outdoor compost pile or community drop-off point. Use compostable liners or a sheet of newspaper to make emptying cleaner. Replacement filters are easy to find online or in stores.
AOSION
Designed for smaller kitchens, this compact bin fits neatly beside a cutting board without crowding the space. The sealed lid helps control odors throughout the day. Included compostable liners keep things clean when it’s time to empty. Its size is best for kitchens that get cleared out every day or two. The smooth interior allows for a fast rinse without lingering mess. If you want to build a habit, keeping this within reach while cooking helps a lot.
EXFOIL
This is a larger-capacity bin built for households that cook often. The removable stainless steel insert makes it easy to dump scraps and rinse clean in seconds. The lid fits snugly and keeps odors in check even when the bin is full. Its sturdy metal construction holds up to daily wear and tear. Because of the larger size, you won’t need to take it out as often, which is convenient for busy kitchens.
LALASTAR
Ideal for small kitchens with limited counter space. You can hang this bin on the inside of a cabinet door or set it on the countertop during prep. The lid closes tightly to keep out bugs and trap smells.
The capacity holds roughly a day’s worth of scraps for a typical household. The plastic body washes clean with dish soap and water, and won’t easily stain. Before installing, measure your cabinet door to make sure the hook fits properly.
Oggi
This stainless steel pail resists odors and wipes clean with a cloth. A charcoal filter sits beneath the lid to help minimize smells between emptying. Its neutral design blends easily into most kitchen styles, from modern to traditional. The handle is solid and easy to grip, even when the bin is full. Its one-gallon capacity is a good match for steady day-to-day cooking.
Full Circle Fresh Air
This design uses built-in ventilation to reduce odor and moisture buildup. Air can circulate through the bin, which slows down decomposition and keeps smells under control. The lid secures contents but still allows airflow. It’s best paired with compostable liners to keep the interior clean and make emptying easier. This bin performs best if emptied regularly rather than letting it sit for several days.
FINESSYn
With a compact footprint and stainless steel body, this bin is ideal for small counters and apartments. The lid fits tightly to contain odors, while the steel exterior stands up to daily cleaning and use. Its capacity holds a day’s worth of food scraps like fruit peels, coffee grounds, and veggie trimmings.
SUPERBIO
These compostable liners are designed to fit most standard countertop bins. They’re certified for industrial composting, meaning they break down under high-heat conditions. Note that they may not fully degrade in backyard systems, so it’s important to check your local composting guidelines. Store the roll in a dry, cool cabinet to prevent premature breakdown.
Joseph Joseph
This countertop caddy combines a ventilated design with a replaceable carbon filter to manage odor. The flip-top lid allows for easy one-handed use during food prep. A built-in handle makes carrying and emptying clean and simple. Its size fits well on most kitchen counters without taking up much space.
Barnyard Designs
This bin pairs function with a classic retro look. It features a removable inner bucket for mess-free dumping and rinsing. Additional odor-absorbing filters help maintain a fresh-smelling kitchen. After cleaning, drying the outer shell helps protect the finish. The metal handle is strong enough to carry a full load to your backyard pile or compost cart.
Blue Ginkgo
This filter-free model locks in odors using a tight-sealing lid, so there’s no need to replace filters over time. Its sturdy build and integrated handles make it easy to carry. The minimalist design fits modern kitchens and small spaces. You’ll want to empty it more often to keep it fresh, since it relies on tight sealing rather than airflow or filters.
Full Circle
This freezer-safe bin is ideal for warm climates or homes dealing with fruit flies. Cold storage slows decomposition and neutralizes odor entirely. It hooks onto a drawer during prep and can also sit on the counter.
When frozen, the flexible silicone body makes it easy to pop scraps out. Works best for those with limited space or no need for a traditional bin. Consider keeping a second one in rotation if you cook frequently.