3 Best Indoor Kitchen Composters

Studies show that a human produces over 200 kilograms of food waste per year. Because it is challenging to reduce food waste and get to zero-waste, it is good to find ways to repurpose cut offs and other food waste.

Composting at home is the best solution and while outdoor composters are big and slow, an indoor kitchen composter is efficient, eco-friendly and the composting is fast. It helps to recycle your kitchen waste, it reduces chemicals and it produces an excellent natural fertilizer for your garden, big or small without having to spend extra cash.

Manual and electric composters are available, and they are straightforward to use meaning you can relax knowing your food waste is being processed. We have prepared an overview of the best kitchen composters available.

List of best indoor kitchen composters

• Most popular and largest capacity – NEW OXO Good Grips Easy-Clean Compost Bin – 1.75 GAL/6.62 L
• Best all round and best budget – Food Cycler Platinum Indoor Food Recycler and Kitchen Compost Container
• Best compact and best design – Stylish Farmhouse Kitchen Compost Bin

Do indoor composters smell?

There wouldn’t be a lot of sales if these machines were smelly, and their main advantage is that indoor electric composters are odourless. The bins are small compared to outdoor types and can keep food waste for about one week. It is the heating and drying system that takes away the problem of gasses and bad smells. 

It is recommended to clean the composter after emptying it and warm water and soap will do the job.

How does an electric composter work?

We only throw away scraps and some fallen leaves from plants or flowers in our composter. Each brand and machine are unique and will work slightly differently, but the majority will break down the waste by drying, grinding and cooling it. 

The drying process is done through heating the compost. This will reduce the volume and kill pathogens. The grinding will break down the food further into smaller particles which makes it easier to mix later into soil. The cooling of this organic compost to room temperature makes it ready to be recycled as a reliable fertilizer. 

Electric composters work in an environmentally friendly way as they reduce wastage and don’t produce methane emissions. 

Things to consider before buying

Material used

High quality PP plastic material, nylon, or high-quality stainless steel, if possible double coated should be your minimum requirements. The material needs to be sturdy, durable, corrosion resistant, and offer longevity. 

Heat resistance and aeration system

The electric machines should meet the heating requirements of the compost. It will avoid overheating and the machine is more durable. A good aeration system provides more efficient composting results.

Capacity

This all depends on how often you cook or how large your family is. Available space is also an important factor when choosing the size of your composter.

Overview of best indoor kitchen composters 

Most popular and largest capacity

NEW OXO Good Grips Easy-Clean Compost Bin – 1.75 GAL/6.62 L

If you have a busy kitchen this 1.75 gallon (6.5 litre) electric composter is a good choice. It’s designed to keep bags tucked inside for a neat look and the smooth interior makes it easy to clean.

The lid stays open for easy tossing of food waste, and it is removable for convenient emptying. The soft-close lid lets oxygen flow through which prevents odour and reduces pests.  It might not be the right choice for those who like to line their bin. Because of the placement of handles, it is not convenient.

Best all round and best budget

Food Cycler Platinum Indoor Food Recycler and Kitchen Compost Container

The new and improved electric food cycler comes with a unique filter monitoring system so you never have to worry again when to change filters. Besides being fast and energy efficient it is also budget-friendly! This composter reduces kitchen waste by up to 90% of its original volume and the entire process only takes 3 hours without the need for venting, draining or additives. As with most electric devices, be aware that motors can heat if you use for longer periods of time. Some reviews say this machine can be quite noisy at times and it takes a long time (about 5-6 hours) to complete the process. Replacement filters are pretty expensive.

Best compact and best design

Stylish Farmhouse Kitchen Compost Bin – Easy Clean 1.3 Gallon Container 

This non-electric composter has a stylish, retro look and fits any countertop. The integrated charcoal filter blocks odour naturally. One filter lasts approximately 3 to 4 months, and you get 3 when purchasing it. However, in warmer months, users of this composter recommend emptying the bin at least twice per week. It is double coated and has a rust-free finish. The compost container is easily washable with warm soapy water.