Composting reduces waste and enriches your soil, but you might be surprised by some unexpected items that can go in the bin. Beyond fruit and vegetable scraps, many household materials break down naturally and add valuable nutrients to your garden.
If you want to improve your composting habits, some of these items are worth adding. Just be sure to skip problem materials like oils and treated products to keep your compost healthy and effective.
Should Compost: Stale Bread and Crackers
Old bread, crackers, and even tortillas can decompose quickly in compost, adding organic matter to the pile. They provide a good source of carbon, balancing out nitrogen-rich materials like fruit and vegetable scraps. Just avoid moldy items, as they can introduce harmful bacteria or unwanted spores.
Should Compost: Coffee Filters and Tea Bags
Paper coffee filters and tea bags (without plastic) break down easily in compost, enriching the soil with organic material. Coffee grounds add nitrogen, while tea leaves contribute beneficial nutrients. Be sure to remove any staples from tea bags before tossing them in.
Should Compost: Nut Shells (Except Walnuts)
Most nut shells, like those from peanuts, almonds, and pecans, add structure to compost and break down slowly. Their rough texture helps aerate the pile, improving decomposition. Avoid walnut shells, as they contain juglone, a compound that can be toxic to some plants.
Should Compost: Pet Fur and Human Hair
Hair and fur are rich in nitrogen and break down over time, contributing valuable nutrients to the compost pile. They help aerate the mix, preventing it from becoming too compact. Just be sure they’re free from hair products or pet treatments that could introduce unwanted chemicals.
Should Compost: Wine Corks (Real Cork Only)
Natural cork is biodegradable and a great addition to compost, breaking down slowly over time. It adds texture to the pile, helping with aeration and moisture balance. Be sure to chop it into smaller pieces to speed up the decomposition process.
Should Compost: Toothpicks and Bamboo Skewers
Small wooden items like toothpicks and bamboo skewers are compostable as long as they’re untreated. They provide a natural carbon source and help maintain a balanced compost pile. Snap them into smaller pieces to help them break down faster.
Should Compost: Used Paper Towels and Napkins
As long as they’re free from grease, chemicals, or synthetic fibers, paper towels and napkins can be composted. They break down quickly and help absorb excess moisture in the pile. Avoid composting ones that have been used with cleaning products or oily foods.
Should Compost: Cardboard Egg Cartons
Shredded cardboard egg cartons are an excellent source of carbon, helping to balance nitrogen-rich materials like food scraps. They decompose easily when moistened and mixed into the pile. Make sure to avoid glossy or coated cartons, as they may contain synthetic materials.
Should Compost: Pencil Shavings
Pencil shavings made from natural wood break down quickly, adding organic material to compost. They help with aeration, preventing the pile from becoming too compact. Avoid shavings from treated or colored pencils, as they may contain chemicals or dyes.
Should Compost: Cotton Balls and Q-Tips (100% Cotton Only)
Pure cotton balls and Q-tips with paper sticks decompose naturally in compost, adding to the carbon-rich content. They break down slowly but eventually turn into nutrient-rich soil. Be sure to avoid synthetic cotton or plastic-stemmed swabs, as they won’t decompose.
Should Compost: Old Spices and Herbs
Expired spices and dried herbs may have lost their flavor for cooking but can still add nutrients to compost. They decompose quickly and contribute trace minerals to the soil. Sprinkle them lightly to prevent clumping and allow for even breakdown.
Should Compost: Houseplant Trimmings
Dead leaves, wilted flowers, and small stems from houseplants make great compost material. They break down naturally and provide carbon, balancing out nitrogen-rich food scraps. Avoid composting diseased plants or those treated with pesticides.
Should Compost: Cereal and Oatmeal (Without Milk)
Dry cereal and plain oatmeal can be composted as long as they don’t contain dairy or excessive sugar. They break down quickly and add bulk to the compost pile. Crush them up before adding to speed up decomposition.
Shouldn't Compost: Oily or Greasy Foods
Fats and oils slow down composting by creating a barrier that prevents proper aeration. They can also attract pests and create unpleasant odors. Stick to dry, plant-based scraps for a healthy compost pile.
Shouldn't Compost: Meat and Dairy Products
Meat, cheese, and other dairy items break down slowly and create strong odors that attract rodents and pests. They also increase the risk of harmful bacteria in the compost pile. For best results, avoid composting animal-based products.
Shouldn't Compost: Glossy or Coated Paper
Magazines, receipts, and coated papers contain synthetic chemicals and inks that don’t break down naturally. These materials can introduce toxins into your compost and harm beneficial microbes. Stick to unbleached, non-glossy paper products for composting.
Expanding your composting list with these unexpected items can help reduce waste while nourishing your garden. Just remember to keep out the problem materials to ensure a healthy, thriving compost pile. Which of these surprised you the most?
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