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Compost Bins: What Else You'll Need
By the Nest & Yard editorial teamUpdated 2026-08-093 min read
Our pick: the DEUBA 1600L Garden Compost Bin, Composting Organic ECO Waste Converter Box, Outdoor Compost Garden Storage Box, Black — the best Compost Bins we tested, from £113.00.
Starting a compost bin is fantastic for reducing waste and enriching your garden soil, but it’s easy to overlook the extra bits and pieces you'll need to make the most of your new system. Alongside your chosen compost bin, consider essential accessories like aeration devices, collection bags, or protective elements – these can significantly improve your composting experience and help maintain a healthy environment for decomposition. This guide explores commonly needed additions and consumables that often aren’t factored into initial purchases, helping you ensure a successful and productive composting setup.
See the full range in Compost Bins.
#1 Pick
DEUBA 1600L Garden Compost Bin, Composting Organic ECO Waste Converter Box, Outdoor Compost Garden Storage Box, Black- 1600 Litre
- Plastic
£113.00
Pros
- Huge 1600L capacity suits large gardens and allotments with plenty of waste
- Slatted wall design allows airflow to speed up decomposition
- Hinged lid and removable front panel make loading and harvesting compost easy
Cons
- Large footprint needs a permanent spot away from the house
#2 Pick
Outsunny 160L Tumbling Compost Bin Outdoor Dual Chamber Composter, 360° Rotating with Sliding Doors, Orange- 160 Litre
- Steel & Plastic
£51.99
Pros
- 360° rotation makes turning and aerating compost quick with no digging
- Dual chamber lets you start a fresh batch while the first one matures
- Solid steel frame and 16 ventilation holes support faster breakdown
Cons
- Assembly required with tools, gloves and screwdriver provided
#3 Pick
HOZELOCK Easymix 2-in-1 Composter, 100 Litre Capacity Rotating Drum Composter with Fertiliser Collection Tank- 100 Litre
- Recycled Plastic
£110.40
Pros
- Rotating drum design mixes waste for compost in as little as 6-8 weeks
- Made from 90% recycled plastic and fully recyclable itself
- Built-in "Click & Spray" tank collects liquid plant feed as a bonus
Cons
- Compact 100L capacity suits smaller gardens rather than large plots
#4 Pick
INNOLITES Organic 2 Pack Garden Compost Bins, 15 Gallon & 34 Gallon Reusable PE Waste Disposal Compost Bags- 34 Gallon
- Reusable PE Fabric
£9.43
Pros
- Two sizes in one pack cover both small kitchen batches and bigger garden loads
- Lightweight fabric folds flat for easy storage when not in use
- Breathable material helps airflow reach the compost pile
Cons
- Soft-sided bags are less rigid than a hard plastic bin
FAQ
What's usually in the box with a new compost bin?
Typically, a basic compost bin will include the bin itself, along with a small amount of starter compost and often some instructions for getting started. However, you’ll likely need to purchase a pitchfork or spade separately for turning the compost effectively.
I've noticed my compost gets very dry – what can I do?
Compost needs moisture to break down properly; consider purchasing a watering can or spray bottle to regularly dampen the contents, particularly during drier weather. A cover over the bin will also help retain humidity.
My garden is quite shaded – will this affect my compost?
Shade reduces heat and slows decomposition, so you might need to add more brown materials like shredded paper or cardboard to balance out the green waste and maintain a good carbon-to-nitrogen ratio.
Do I need special gloves when handling compost?
While not strictly essential, wearing gardening gloves is recommended to protect your hands from potential irritants and bacteria. Durable work gloves are ideal for this purpose.
What's the best way to add food scraps to my bin?
It’s important to chop up larger food items like vegetable peelings before adding them, as this speeds up decomposition. Avoid adding meat, dairy or oily foods which can attract pests.
I'm worried about flies – what can I do?
Flies are attracted to decomposing material; ensuring you layer your compost with plenty of brown materials and covering the bin tightly will help reduce this issue. A mesh lid is often a worthwhile investment.
How do I know when my compost is ready?
Finished compost should have a dark, crumbly texture and an earthy smell – it shouldn’t be recognisable as the original materials. You can also use a compost thermometer to check internal temperatures.
What if I need to move my compost bin?
Compost bins can become heavy when full; consider purchasing a set of garden trolleys or wheelbarrows for easier transportation, especially for larger bins.
Do I need any tools beyond a shovel?
A small trowel is useful for layering materials and aerating the compost, while a wire brush can help remove compacted material. A secateurs are handy for trimming green waste to smaller pieces.
Are there additives that speed up the composting process?
While not essential, you can purchase commercial compost activators which contain beneficial microbes to accelerate decomposition. Adding shredded leaves also adds valuable organic matter.
In depth
A new compost bin arrives, full of promise for rich soil and reduced waste, but it’s rarely just the bin itself that’s needed. Alongside the core unit, there's a surprising number of accessories – often overlooked in initial purchases – that significantly improve the composting experience and ensure optimal results. Let’s explore what else you might need to create a truly effective system.
Firstly, consider feeding your compost. A supply of well-rotted garden waste is fundamental, but this can be supplemented with kitchen scraps. While some bins come with basic collection containers for food waste, it's wise to invest in separate, airtight buckets – ideally with lids to deter pests and retain moisture – to keep things tidy and prevent smells. Having a dedicated space for collecting these materials makes the whole process far more manageable.
Next, think about aeration. Composting relies on oxygen, and many bins aren’t designed with sufficient ventilation. A small aerator tool – often made of plastic or metal – is invaluable for regularly turning the compost pile, breaking up clumps, and allowing air to circulate effectively. Without this, decomposition slows dramatically and unpleasant smells can develop.
Watering is another crucial element frequently underestimated. Compost needs moisture to decompose efficiently, but too much will lead to anaerobic conditions (lack of oxygen) and foul odors. A watering can or a gentle spray nozzle allows you to maintain the ideal dampness level without over-saturating the pile. Maintaining consistent moisture, particularly during drier periods, is key.
Don’t forget about protection. Depending on your location and typical weather patterns, protecting your compost bin from extremes is important. This could include a simple cover – a sheet of tarpaulin or even a repurposed plastic sheet – to shield it from heavy rain or scorching sunlight. A small windscreen can also help retain heat during colder months.
Finally, consider tools for maintenance and general tidiness. A sturdy trowel or spade is essential for moving compost within the bin, while a pair of gardening gloves will protect your hands from dirt and potential irritants. Small scoops or buckets are useful for transferring finished compost to bags or containers. A small brush or broom can also be handy for keeping the area around the bin clean and free of debris.
It’s easy to get caught up in the initial excitement of setting up a composting system, but remembering these supplementary items – from feeding materials to aeration tools and protective measures – will dramatically enhance your ability to produce nutrient-rich compost and contribute to a more sustainable garden.
The Nest & Yard editorial team
Written and reviewed by our UK-based team of home improvement and gardening writers, who research specs, pricing and customer reviews before every recommendation. Reviewed and updated on 2026-08-09.