Composting at home is one of the simplest ways to reduce waste, enrich soil, and grow healthy plants. Countertop compost bins make this process easier than ever, eliminating the need for a garden while keeping kitchen scraps contained and odor-free. After rigorous testing, we’ve identified the top performers for various needs, from families to minimalists.
Why Countertop Compost Bins Matter
Reducing waste is becoming increasingly important as landfills fill up and climate change accelerates. Composting turns food scraps and paper products into valuable fertilizer, diverting them from landfills. Soil health also benefits: compost enriches the soil, improving its structure and nutrient content. This leads to stronger plant growth without relying on synthetic fertilizers.
These bins aren’t just about environmental responsibility; they also bring convenience to your kitchen. No more messy trips to the backyard or lingering smells in your trash.
How We Tested
We had seven testers across The Kitchn and Apartment Therapy Media use these bins for at least a month. Each tester evaluated scent control, size, appearance, price, and ease of cleaning. Ratings ranged from 1 to 5 (5 being the best). Here’s what we learned.
Top Picks at a Glance
- Bamboozle Astrik Compost Bin: Best for families, with ample capacity and tight odor control.
- OXO Good Grips Easy-Clean Compost Bin: Ideal for minimalists, compact and easy to clean.
- EPICA Countertop Compost Bin: Best for forgetful composters, with strong odor blocking features.
- Blue Ginkgo Kitchen Compost Bin: Perfect for beginners, simple, bagless, and easy to use.
- Simplehuman Compost Caddy: Best for small spaces, sleek design and effective odor control.
- Joseph Joseph Collect Stainless Steel Food Compost Bin: A clean, functional option with a removable filter.
- Lalastar Small Metal Compost Bin: The best budget-friendly choice.
The Best Options: Detailed Reviews
Best for Families: Bamboozle Astrik Compost Bin (5/5)
This bin stands out with its stylish design and effective odor sealing. Its 1-gallon capacity is ideal for families generating larger amounts of food waste.
“I’m thrilled with this new countertop gem,” says Lindsay Funston, editor-in-chief of The Kitchn. “It brings a much-needed color moment to my kitchen, and I don’t have to take out the compost every night.”
- Capacity: 1 gallon
- Pros: Stylish, spacious, excellent odor control.
- Cons: Pricey, handles may be unnecessary.
Best for the Minimalist: OXO Good Grips Easy-Clean Compost Bin (5/5)
This bin offers a clean, slim design that won’t overwhelm your counter space. Its simplicity and ease of cleaning make it a favorite among those who prefer a no-fuss approach.
Maxwell Ryan, CEO of Apartment Therapy Media, notes, “It’s attractive, slim, lightweight, dishwasher-ready, and all in one piece.”
- Capacity: 0.75 & 1.75 gallons
- Pros: Compact, clean appearance, easy to clean.
- Cons: Smaller size requires more frequent emptying.
Best for Forgetful Composters: EPICA Countertop Compost Bin (4.5/5)
The EPICA bin excels at keeping odors contained, even if you forget to empty it for a few days. Its sleek design and metal finishes add a touch of sophistication to any kitchen.
Rachel Perlmutter, culinary producer at The Kitchn, was shocked by how well this bin blocked smells: “There were times I opened it and couldn’t smell anything at all with the lid closed!”
- Capacity: 1.3 gallons
- Pros: Sleek design, strong odor control, easy transport.
- Cons: Doesn’t come with compost bags, can be hard to clean without them.
Best for New Composters: Blue Ginkgo Kitchen Compost Bin (4.5/5)
This bin is ideal for beginners, requiring no setup, bags, or charcoal filters. Its simple design and easy-to-open lid make composting accessible and hassle-free.
Kristina Razon, deputy food editor at The Kitchn, notes: “The well-fitting lid keeps all smells in.”
- Capacity: 0.69 or 1.35 gallons
- Pros: Easy to use, no bags or filters needed, affordable.
- Cons: Made from plastic, smaller version may be too small.
Best for Small Spaces: Simplehuman Compost Caddy (4.5/5)
Designed for compact kitchens, this bin combines sleek aesthetics with effective odor control. It comes with compost bags for added convenience.
Andrea Wawrzyn, The Kitchn’s food editor, raved about its performance: “The simple design of the stainless steel body was easy to clean.”
- Capacity: 1.06 gallons
- Pros: Stylish, easy to clean, includes compost bags.
- Cons: Higher price point, doesn’t seal shut completely.
Best for Cleanliness: Joseph Joseph Collect Stainless Steel Food Compost Bin (4/5)
This bin offers a balance of style and function, with a removable filter to eliminate odors and a sleek stainless steel design.
Carolyn Moore, email editor at Apartment Therapy Media, loved how this bin fit perfectly on her counter: “The replaceable filter kept my kitchen from smelling.”
- Capacity: 1.06 gallons
- Pros: Sleek design, removable filter, easy to clean.
- Cons: Lid doesn’t latch shut completely, higher price point.
Best Budget-Friendly Pick: Lalastar Small Metal Compost Bin (3.5/5)
For those on a budget, this bin offers a cute, retro design and keeps odors contained without breaking the bank.
Emma Dangel, style editor at Apartment Therapy, notes: “I haven’t had any issues with bugs or smells thus far with this one.”
- Capacity: 1 gallon
- Pros: Affordable, cute design, odor control.
- Cons: Lid doesn’t seal tightly, doesn’t come with compost bags.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right countertop compost bin depends on your needs and lifestyle. Whether you’re a family looking for space or a minimalist prioritizing simplicity, there’s an option that fits. Investing in a good bin makes composting less of a chore and more of an effortless habit.
