You don’t need a backyard or a garden to start composting—you just need the right system for your space. Composting in an apartment is a powerful way to reduce food waste, enrich soil, and live more sustainably, all without a big mess or foul smell. In fact, composting is one of the simplest and most impactful things you can do for the planet: it diverts food scraps from landfills (where they release harmful methane gas), turns waste into a valuable resource, and helps close the loop in a natural, sustainable way.
Here are some of the best composting ideas for apartment dwellers:
1. Countertop Compost Bin + Local Drop-Off
If you're new to composting, a simple countertop bin might be the easiest place to start. These small containers store your food scraps until you're ready to bring them to a compost drop-off location.
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Use: Collect fruit peels, coffee grounds, eggshells, veggie scraps.
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Tip: Freeze the scraps to avoid odors.
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Where to drop off: Many cities have farmer’s markets, compost co-ops, or municipal compost programs.
2. Bokashi Composting (Great for Small Spaces)
Bokashi is a compact, odor-free method that uses special microbes to ferment all food waste—including meat and dairy—without any smell. It’s perfect for apartments.
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Pros: No bugs, no smell, fits under the sink.
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How it works: Layer food waste and Bokashi bran in the airtight bin. After two weeks, bury it in a planter or bring to a compost site.
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Bonus: Produces nutrient-rich liquid you can dilute and use to fertilize houseplants!
3. Worm Composting (Vermicomposting)
Got a little more space (and no fear of worms)? A worm bin is a fun, educational, and effective way to compost indoors or on a small patio.
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How it works: Red wiggler worms eat your kitchen scraps and produce "worm castings"—a fantastic organic fertilizer.
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Where to keep it: Under the sink, in a closet, or on the balcony/small patio (weather permitting).
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Pro tip: Avoid citrus and meat scraps—stick with peels, coffee grounds, fruit and veggies.
4. Community Garden & Compost Exchange Programs
If you don't want to compost at home, you can still save your scraps and help others.
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Look for: Local community gardens, composting hubs, or neighbors who garden and accept food scraps.
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Apps to help: Check platforms like ShareWaste to find people nearby who will accept your compost.
5. Look for Composting Classes in Your Area
Want to take your composting to the next level? Many cities offer workshops or classes that cover composting basics, troubleshooting common issues, and even building your own indoor system.
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Check with: Local community centers, gardening clubs, extension services, or environmental organizations.
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Online tools: Use Eventbrite, Meetup, or local Facebook groups to discover composting events in your area.
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Why it helps: Hands-on learning can boost your confidence and connect you with a like-minded community.
What to Compost (and What Not To)
✅ Yes:
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❌ No:
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Read more on how to compost HERE
Final Thoughts: Small Space, Big Impact
You don’t need a backyard to make a big difference. Composting in your apartment can be simple, smell-free, and incredibly rewarding. Whether you're saving scraps in a bin or trying out worms or Bokashi, there’s a composting method out there for you.
Start small, stay consistent, and join the movement to turn waste into something wonderful—even from the heart of your city.
