It’s no secret that food waste is a huge problem here in the U.S., with nearly 25% of all food eventually ending up in the trash. The good news is, by shopping with Misfits Market, you’re already helping reduce your carbon footprint and food waste. Composting at home is another easy way to kick your eco-friendly efforts up a notch. By transforming food waste into compost, you’re creating nutrient-rich fertilizer for gardening and saving waste from landfills.
And the benefits don’t stop there: “Compost adds nutrients and organic matter back to soil, which benefits agriculture, reduces our reliance on synthetic fertilizers, diverts methane-producing organic materials from landfills, and improves soil’s water retention capacity so you don’t need to water as much,” says Darby Hoover, the Natural Resources Defense Council’s senior resource specialist.
Still unsure about composting at home? Let us demystify some common questions.
Q: Will compost make my kitchen smell?
Generally no. Thanks to airtight lids, countertop compost bins contain any smells when closed (just don’t forget to keep it closed!).
Q: Is composting expensive?
It doesn’t have to be! You can build your own compost bin and pile at home, or find inexpensive ready-to-use compost kits. And if you’re a home gardener, composting can actually save you money on expensive fertilizers in the long run.
Q: Once I start composting, how long does it take to turn into usable compost?
Generally a year.
Q: Can I compost all year long?
Yes!
Q: Will a countertop compost bin attract bugs?
Not usually! We recommend that you regularly dispose of your compost and keep the bin’s lid locked tight to help avoid any issues.
Ready to stat? Here’s what you can and cannot compost.
What’s good:
- Shells (from nuts and eggs)
- Fruit and vegetable peels
- Whole fruits and vegetables
- Coffee grounds and filters, tea bags
- Wooden chopsticks and toothpicks
- Paper products (paper towels, plates, napkins, bags, boxes)
What to avoid:
- Citrus peels
- Dairy products
- Cooking oils and fats
- Toxic plants
- Animal waste and diapers
- Stickers on fruits and vegetables
- Raw meat and fish
- Recyclables (plastic, cardboard, and glass)
Sources:
- NRDC
- Better Homes & Gardens
- The Composting Council
- The City of New York Department of Sanitation
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