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Composting is a sustainable and eco-friendly practice that allows you to transform organic materials into nutrient-rich soil. Whether you have a small backyard or a larger outdoor space, a composting system can help you reduce waste, save money on fertilizers, and improve the health of your garden. In this article, we’ll review the best compost tumblers for 2023 and provide you with the information you need to choose the right one for your needs. Let’s get started.
Why Choose a Composting System?
Composting is a natural process that mimics what happens in nature. By mixing together carbon-rich “browns” and nitrogen-rich “greens,” you create an ideal environment for decomposition. The carbon-rich materials include cardboard, brown paper bags, shredded newspaper, and dried leaves, while the nitrogen-rich materials encompass kitchen scraps, coffee grounds, and plant clippings.
While you can create a compost pile by simply nailing together some scrap lumber, using a compost tumbler or other composting system offers several advantages. These systems not only help contain the compost and protect it from wildlife and weather but also facilitate the process of turning the compost, which is necessary to aerate the vegetable scraps and accelerate decomposition.
The Best Compost Tumblers of 2023
After extensive research and consultation with our outdoor and landscape experts, we have compiled a list of the best compost tumblers available in 2023. These tumblers have been selected based on their capacity, number of chambers, durability, user reviews, and overall performance.
1. Jora Composter 270
Best Overall
The Jora Composter 270 stands out as the top choice for compost tumblers. Unlike most plastic tumblers, this model is constructed with high-quality metal, providing durability and insulation. Its excellent insulation retains heat, resulting in faster composting. Additionally, the Jora Composter 270 is rodent-proof, ensuring a worry-free composting experience in your yard.
With a capacity of 70 gallons and a simple crank handle mechanism, you can easily turn and aerate your compost. The dual-chamber design allows you to continuously compost while one chamber breaks down for a few weeks. When fully broken down, the compost is a uniform black gold that can be used in your garden or for compost tea.
- Capacity: 70 Gallons
- Chambers: Double
2. FCMP Outdoor Tumbling Composter (37 Gallon)
Top Choice
The FCMP tumbler is a top choice for most composting setups. It offers durability, affordability, and practical features that make composting a breeze. With its two chambers, you can separate newer scraps from nearly finished compost, ensuring a continuous supply of nutrient-rich soil for your garden.
The raised design of the tumbler keeps pests at bay and makes it easy to fill and turn without the need for bending down. Users have reported that the FCMP tumbler remains weather-resistant and retains its original sheen even after prolonged use.
- Capacity: 37 gallons
- Chambers: Double
3. Miracle-Gro Single Chamber Outdoor Composter (18.5 Gallon)
Affordable Option
Miracle-Gro offers a range of outdoor tumblers in various sizes, including the 18.5-gallon option. This compost tumbler has received rave reviews for its sturdiness, ease of use, and affordability.
The compact size makes it suitable for smaller spaces, while the single chamber design simplifies the composting process. Users have praised its durability and functionality, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced composters.
- Capacity: 18.5 gallons
- Chambers: Single
4. Aerobin 200 Stationary Insulated Composter (55 Gallon)
High Quality Compost
The Aerobin 200 is a stationary composter with excellent insulation properties. It maintains a consistent temperature inside, which accelerates the decomposition process.
This composter features a liquid reservoir at the base, allowing you to collect and use the concentrated liquid known as “compost tea” as additional fertilizer. Users have praised the Aerobin’s efficiency and the high-quality compost it produces.
- Capacity: 55 gallons
- Chambers: Single
5. Good Ideas Compost Wizard Jr (50 Gallon)
Compact Size
If you have limited outdoor space, the Good Ideas Compost Wizard Jr is an ideal solution. This drum composter rotates to mix your greens and browns efficiently. It comes in both single and dual-chamber configurations, offering flexibility based on your composting needs.
The compact size and rodent-proof design make it suitable for patios or rooftops. Users have found it easy to use and appreciate the convenience of composting in smaller spaces. It also features a sturdy construction that withstands outdoor elements.
- Capacity: 50 gallons
- Chambers: Single or double
6. VermiHut Plus 5-Tray Worm Compost Bin
Great Indoor Composting Option
For those looking to compost indoors or in semi-outdoor spaces like garages or closed porches, the VermiHut Plus 5-Tray Worm Compost Bin is an excellent choice.
This system utilizes worms to break down food scraps into nutrient-rich compost. The multiple trays allow for efficient composting and easy worm management. Users have found this worm composter to be odorless and efficient in processing food scraps.
- Capacity: Up to 31 Gallons
- Chambers: Five Trays
7. SCD Probiotics All Seasons Indoor Composter Kit with Bokashi
Best for Indoor Composting
The SCD Probiotics All Seasons Indoor Composter Kit with Bokashi is a compact system suitable for enriching your outdoor garden. Bokashi composting involves fermenting food scraps using microorganism-saturated bran in an airtight container.
The fermented scraps can then be buried in the garden to decompose further and nourish the soil. Users appreciate the versatility of the Bokashi system, as it allows for composting a wide range of food waste, including condiments and oily items.
- Capacity: 5 Gallons
- Chambers: One Bin
8. VIVOSUN Compost Tumbler
Best Value
If you are looking for a smaller tumbler that still delivers excellent composting results, the VIVOSUN Compost Tumbler is a fantastic choice. With two chambers and a volume of 43 gallons, it offers versatility and convenience. While one chamber is processing, you can continue to fill the other, ensuring a continuous composting cycle.
The VIVOSUN Compost Tumbler is lightweight, making it easy to move around your garden. It is also vented, providing additional aeration and releasing gases produced during composting. With its affordable price and reliable performance, this tumbler offers exceptional value for small gardens or households.
- Capacity: 43 Gallons
- Chambers: Double
9. Urban Worm Bag
Best for Vermicomposting
Vermicomposting is an excellent way to produce highly versatile compost while efficiently recycling kitchen and yard waste. The Urban Worm Bag is the perfect choice for home gardeners who want to engage in vermicomposting. Its easy assembly and convenient features make it an outstanding option. With dimensions of 27.5 x 27.5 x 31 inches, it provides ample space for worms to thrive and process organic matter. The Urban Worm Bag allows you to directly add worm castings to your soil, potting mix, or seed starting mix, enriching them with micronutrients and microbial life. Additionally, worms efficiently consume kitchen and yard waste, reducing the amount of organic matter sent to landfills.
- Capacity: 43 Gallons
- Chambers: Double
How We Chose the Best Compost Tumblers
We considered several factors, including:
- Material: The material of the compost tumbler is crucial for its durability and insulation properties. Metal tumblers, like the Jora Composter 270, are more durable and better at retaining heat than plastic tumblers, such as the VIVOSUN Compost Tumbler.
- Capacity: Compost tumblers come in various sizes, and choosing the right capacity depends on the amount of food and yard waste you generate. A larger tumbler, like the 70-gallon Jora Composter 270, is suitable for a family of four, while a smaller tumbler, like the 43-gallon VIVOSUN Compost Tumbler, is ideal for one to four-person households.
- Features: Important features include multiple chambers, rodent-proof construction, insulation, ventilation, and ease of use. Tumblers with multiple chambers, like the Jora Composter 270 and VIVOSUN Compost Tumbler, allow for continuous composting. Rodent-proof construction, as found in the Jora Composter 270, ensures a hassle-free experience. Insulation helps retain heat, promoting faster composting. Ventilation, like in the VIVOSUN Compost Tumbler, provides additional aeration and helps release gases. Easy assembly and maintenance, as offered by the Urban Worm Bag, are also desirable features.
- Value for money: We considered the price of each compost tumbler in relation to its features and performance. The Jora Composter 270 may have a higher price tag, but its metal construction, insulation, and rodent-proof design justify the investment. The VIVOSUN Compost Tumbler, on the other hand, offers great value with its affordable price and reliable performance.
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FAQs
What is a compost tumbler and how does it work?
A compost tumbler is a container designed for making compost in an enclosed space. It works by using heat and moisture to break down organic materials, such as food scraps and yard waste, into nutrient-rich soil.
What are the benefits of using a compost tumbler?
Composting with a tumbler is a faster and more efficient process than traditional composting methods. It also creates better quality compost that can be used to fertilize gardens and lawns, while reducing waste and environmental impact.
What should I consider when choosing a compost tumbler?
Consider the size, capacity, and durability of the tumbler, as well as its ease of use and maintenance. Look for features such as a crank handle or ventilation system that can help speed up the composting process.
How do I know what size compost tumbler I need?
Consider the amount of organic waste you generate and the amount of space you have available. A smaller tumbler may be sufficient for a small household, while a larger tumbler may be necessary for larger gardens or commercial use.
What materials can be used in a compost tumbler?
Most organic materials can be used in a compost tumbler, including food scraps, yard waste, and paper products. However, avoid adding materials such as meat, dairy, and oils, as they can attract pests and slow down the composting process.
How often should I turn the compost tumbler?
Turn the tumbler every few days to aerate the compost and speed up the process. However, be sure not to overdo it, as too much turning can slow down the process and create a lumpy, uneven compost.
How long does it take to make compost in a tumbler?
Composting in a tumbler can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the size of the tumbler, the amount of organic material, and the environmental conditions.
Where can I find the best compost tumblers?
The best compost tumblers can be found at garden centers, hardware stores, and online retailers. Look for brands with good reviews and warranties, and compare prices to find the best deal.
Can I make my own compost tumbler?
Yes, it is possible to make your own compost tumbler using materials such as plastic drums, PVC pipes, or wooden boxes. However, be sure to follow safety guidelines and best practices to ensure the tumbler is effective and safe to use.
How do I use compost from a tumbler?
Once the compost is ready, use it to fertilize gardens, lawns, and houseplants. Spread a thin layer over the soil surface and mix it in, or use it as a top dressing. Avoid using too much at once, as it can burn plant roots and damage the soil.
Conclusion
By considering these factors, we selected the Jora Composter 270 as the best overall compost tumbler for its durability, insulation, and rodent-proof design. The VIVOSUN Compost Tumbler was chosen as the best value option due to its affordability and performance. The All Seasons Indoor Composter Starter Kit was selected as the best countertop compost tumbler, and the Urban Worm Bag was chosen as the best option for vermicomposting.
Composting is a sustainable practice that can benefit both the environment and your garden. By using a compost tumbler or other composting system, you can efficiently transform organic waste into nutrient-rich soil. Each of these compost tumblers offer different features and capacities to suit various composting needs.
Remember to consider the capacity, number of chambers, durability, and user reviews when selecting a compost tumbler. Choose the one that aligns with your space constraints, composting goals, and personal preferences. Happy composting!
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