Introduction

Composting is an excellent way to reduce food waste while creating nutritious soil amendments for your garden. However, many homeowners struggle with finding an ideal spot for their kitchen compost bin that keeps odors and fruit flies at bay while still being convenient to use. With some thoughtful planning, you can discreetly tuck your compost bin away in a spot that blends seamlessly into your home’s design.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top locations for concealing your kitchen compost bin and tips for keeping it clean and critter-free. Whether you have a large farmhouse kitchen or a tiny urban galley, you can find a solution for stashing your composter out of sight. Read on to discover the best kept secrets for where to hide the kitchen compost bin.

Under the Sink

One of the most popular options for keeping compost bins concealed is stowing them away under the kitchen sink. This puts the bin close to food prep areas for easy food scrap collection while also hiding it behind closed cabinet doors.

Advantages

  • Convenient access when cooking or cleaning up after meals. Simply sweep food waste into the bin without having to walk across the room.
  • Keeps odors, flies, and mess concealed when cabinet door is shut.
  • Allows bins to blend seamlessly into existing kitchen decor and layout.

Considerations

  • Measure under sink cabinet size to ensure the compost bin will actually fit in the space. Leave a few inches of clearance on sides for removing the bin.
  • Consider possible leaks from bin. Line bottom of cabinet with towel or tray to contain drips.
  • May need to drill hole in back of cabinet for ventilation to prevent odor buildup.

Tips for Success

  • Choose a bin with a charcoal filter or odor blocking design to contain smells.
  • Line bin with compostable bags to make waste removal cleaner.
  • Empty bin frequently, at least every 2-3 days in warm weather when fruit flies are active.
  • Keep cabinet doors shut at all times to block odors and flies.
  • Wipe up spills in cabinet promptly to prevent sticky messes.

Suitable Bin Types

  • Countertop compost crocks with charcoal filters
  • Plastic bins with locking lids
  • Ceramic bins with inner buckets for easy emptying
  • Small bins designed to fit cabinet spaces

In a Base Cabinet

Like under the sink, a base kitchen cabinet can offer the perfect hidden home for a compost bin. Base cabinets closer to food prep zones offer the most convenient access.

Advantages

  • Keeps compost bin completely concealed behind doors when not in use.
  • Allows bins to be stored right within kitchen work triangle for easy access when cooking.
  • Uses existing kitchen cabinetry for a built-in solution.

Considerations

  • Make sure bin size allows cabinet doors to fully shut.
  • Be aware of weight on cabinet floor if using large bin.
  • Prep for potential leaks with waterproof liner.

Tips for Success

  • Install sturdy drawer slides in cabinet to allow bin to slide in and out when needed.
  • Drill ventilation holes in back of cabinet.
  • Use compostable bin liners for easy, drip-free waste removal.
  • Empty bin frequently to prevent odor buildup in cabinet.

Suitable Bin Types

  • Small plastic bins designed for under counter installation
  • Ceramic crocks with charcoal filters
  • Custom pull-out compost bins on slides

Inside a Roll-Out Trash Pullout

Many modern kitchens utilize roll-out trash and recycling pullouts in base cabinets. The roomy interiors of these pullouts can often accommodate a slim compost bin as well.

Advantages

  • Allows compost bin to be completely hidden when not in use.
  • Keeps bin up off floor away from potential leaks or pests.
  • Uses existing cabinetry without major modifications.

Considerations

  • Ensure trash and/or recycling bins also fit with compost bin installed.
  • Check for clearance above when fully extended.
  • Monitor weight limits on slides.

Tips for Success

  • Look for pullouts with full extension slides to allow easy access to back wall where compost bin can tuck in.
  • Use slim, vertical compost bin designed to fit tight spaces.
  • Empty bin frequently to prevent odor buildup in enclosed pullout.

Suitable Bin Types

  • Slim plastic bins with snap-locking lids
  • Vertical ceramic compost crocks
  • Custom pull-out bins designed for trash pullouts

Inside a Roll-Out Drawer

In addition to trash/recycling rollouts, some kitchens also have roll-out drawers that can provide an excellent hiding spot.

Advantages

  • Keeps compost bin completely concealed behind drawer front when not in use.
  • Allows bin to be installed right within the kitchen work zone.
  • Utilizes existing cabinetry without major mods.

Considerations

  • Ensure drawer depth and width will accommodate bin.
  • Monitor weight limits on drawer slides.
  • Prep for leaks with waterproof liner.

Tips for Success

  • Use full extension drawer slides for complete access.
  • Use soft-close slides to allow quiet, gentle operation when opening/closing drawer.
  • Line drawer interior with towel or mat to absorb leaks.
  • Empty bin frequently to limit odor buildup.

Suitable Bin Types

  • Slim plastic bins designed for discreet placement
  • Ceramic crocks with inner buckets
  • Small custom bins made specifically for drawers

Inside a Pull-Out Pantry

For larger kitchens, a pull-out pantry can provide the perfect hidden spot for stashing a compost bin while keeping it easily accessible.

Advantages

  • Allows compost bin to be completely concealed when pantry is closed.
  • Provides ample space for a larger compost bin.
  • Keeps bin odor, flies and mess out of main kitchen area.

Considerations

  • Ensure pantry dimensions will accommodate bin size.
  • Add ventilation holes to back of pantry interior.
  • Monitor pantry weight limits when extended.

Tips for Success

  • Use soft-close hardware for smooth, quiet operation.
  • Line bottom of pantry with towel or tray to contain leaks.
  • Empty bin frequently to prevent odor buildup.

Suitable Bin Types

  • Larger plastic bins with locking lids
  • Ceramic crocks with activated charcoal filters
  • Custom pull-out bins designed for pantries

Inside a Roll-Out Blind Corner Cabinet

For kitchens with blind corner cabinets, these often overlooked spaces can be repurposed to stash compost bins.

Advantages

  • Uses dead corner cabinet space that is often underutilized.
  • Keeps compost bin completely hidden from view.
  • Can be installed close to prep and clean-up areas.

Considerations

  • The diagonal interior shape may limit bin size and shape.
  • Weight limitations on slides.
  • Limited access to back corners.

Tips for Success

  • Measure interior dimensions carefully to ensure fit.
  • Install sturdy full extension slides rated for weight.
  • Use triangular insert to allow better bin fit.

Suitable Bin Types

  • Small plastic bins designed for discreet placement.
  • Slim ceramic crocks that fit corner shape
  • Custom angled pull-out bins made specifically for blind corner cabinets.

Under the Kitchen Prep Table

For spacious kitchens with kitchen islands or prep tables, installing a compost bin directly underneath can be an ideal solution.

Advantages

  • Creates easy access right where food prep takes place.
  • Keeps bin completely hidden below prep table.
  • Allows larger compost bins to be accommodated.

Considerations

  • Prep table must be designed with adequate clearance underneath for bin height.
  • Ventilation and drainage requirements if enclosed underneath.
  • Access doors may need to be added if open underneath.

Tips for Success

  • Allow 12-15 inches of clearance below prep table minimum.
  • Add lockable access doors to keep bin out of sight.
  • Use compost bags and activated charcoal filters to contain odors.

Suitable Bin Types

  • Large plastic compost bins with locking lids
  • Ceramic crocks with charcoal filtration
  • Custom pull-out bins on full extension drawer slides

Inside a Butlers Pantry

For luxury kitchens with spacious butler’s pantries, this provides an optimal spot to tuck away compost bins completely out of sight.

Advantages

  • Keeps compost bin totally concealed in separate service area.
  • Allows for a larger, higher capacity compost bin.
  • Odors and mess are kept completely out of main kitchen.

Considerations

  • Ensure adequate clearance for bin size within available pantry space.
  • Add ventilation as needed to prevent odor buildup.
  • May require modifying interior shelves or cabinets to accommodate bin.

Tips for Success

  • Install sturdy pull-out shelves on drawer slides to allow easy bin access.
  • Use compostable bin liners for easy, drip-free emptying.
  • Empty bin frequently to prevent odor buildup.

Suitable Bin Types

  • Large plastic compost bins with aeration holes
  • Ceramic bins with activated charcoal filters
  • Custom cabinetry designed specifically for integrated compost bins

Under the Kitchen Stairs

For homes where the kitchen flows into a staircase, this awkward under-stairs space presents a perfect spot to tuck away compost bins.

Advantages

  • Makes use of challenging under-stairs space that is often wasted.
  • Keeps bins completely concealed from view.
  • Stair walls help block odors from wafting into kitchen.

Considerations

  • Limited space may restrict bin size.
  • Access doors or removable panels may need to be added.
  • Requires crawling under stairs to access bins.

Tips for Success

  • Measure carefully to ensure bin fits under-stairs footprint.
  • Add ventilation to prevent odor and moisture buildup.
  • Install sturdy shelving to support bin weight.
  • Use smaller compost crocks or bins to maximize space.

Suitable Bin Types

  • Small plastic bins with locking lids.
  • Ceramic compost crocks sized to fit space.
  • Custom cabinetry designed specifically for under-stairs storage.

In the Garage or Mudroom

While not directly accessible from the kitchen, garage and mudroom spaces can provide excellent options for hiding away unsightly compost bins while keeping them close by.

Advantages

  • Allows compost bins to be completely concealed in separate service areas.
  • Keeps odors, flies, and mess out of the main living spaces.
  • Allows use of larger compost tumblers or bins not suitable in kitchens.

Considerations

  • Less convenient to access day to day from the kitchen.
  • Odors may be stronger in enclosed garage space. Proper ventilation is a must.
  • Garage floor may not contain spills or leaks adequately.

Tips for Success

  • Use compost tumblers on garage pads or decks for easier turning.
  • Add heavy-duty shelving to support larger bins off the floor.
  • Use bins with tight sealing lids to prevent pests.

Suitable Bin Types

  • Larger plastic compost tumblers on outdoor pads
  • Heavy-duty vermicomposting bins
  • Rodent-proof commercial compost bins

In an Outdoor Enclosure or Garden Shed

When garage or mudroom space is limited, installing enclosed outdoor bins or garden sheds creates an excellent option for discreetly composting while keeping your kitchen clutter-free.

Advantages

  • Allows compost bins to be completely concealed outside the home.
  • Odors and mess are kept totally separate from living spaces.
  • Provides flexibility for larger capacity composting systems.

Considerations

  • Less convenient day-to-day access from the kitchen.
  • Outdoor bins require protective enclosures from weather and pests.
  • Risk of spills/leaks directly onto garden areas.

Tips for Success

  • Use weatherproof outdoor storage sheds with adequate ventilation.
  • Look for enclosed rodent-proof compost bins.
  • Use tumbling compost bins on outdoor pads or patios for easier turning.
  • Add waterproof liner or mats below bins to protect garden beds.

Suitable Options

  • Rodent-resistant outdoor compost bins
  • Enclosed compost tumblers on garden pads
  • Weatherproof outdoor garden sheds
  • Custom outdoor cabinetry designed for integrated compost bins

Inside Wooden Enclosures or Bins

For a more aesthetically pleasing approach, compost bins can be incorporated into attractive wooden enclosures that blend into outdoor living areas.

Advantages

  • Allows compost bins to be installed outdoors while concealing bins.
  • Can be designed to coordinate with home’s architecture and style.
  • Keeps compost areas tidy and integrated.

Considerations

  • Requires custom woodworking design and construction.
  • May require more frequent emptying without ample bin capacity.
  • Wood bins may deteriorate faster than plastic.

Tips for Success

  • Use cedar, redwood or composite wood materials to resist weather and insects.
  • Include screened ventilation panel to encourage airflow.
  • Use watertight bins or include liner to protect wood from leaks.
  • Use compost tumblers for easier turning access.

Suitable Options

  • Custom cedar compost enclosures with bins or tumblers inside
  • Pre-built wooden compost bin enclosures
  • Composite wood compost tumblers handmade to match home’s style
  • Rodent-proof bins concealed inside decorative wood structures

Built Into Kitchen Islands

For a truly seamless, integrated solution, compost bins can be incorporated directly into kitchen island cabinetry and design.

Advantages

  • Allows compost bin to disappear entirely into kitchen layout and architecture.
  • Keeps bin completely concealed behind cabinet doors when not in use.
  • Provides easy, convenient access right at food preparation zones.

Considerations

  • Requires customized kitchen island cabinetry design.
  • Cannot easily be retrofitted into existing island.
  • Higher upfront cost than freestanding bins.

Tips for Success

  • Incorporate double bin pull-out design for separating compost and recycling.
  • Use soft-close slides and self-closing doors.
  • Include ventilation system to prevent odors.
  • Use compost bin liners for easy, clean emptying.

Suitable Options

  • Custom cabinetry with integrated compost bin pullouts
  • Built-in ceramic compost crocks with filtration
  • Commercial institutional compost bins concealed in cabinetry

FAQs: Hiding the Compost Bin

What are the benefits of hiding my compost bin?

Hiding your compost bin keeps odors, fruit flies, and mess out of sight in your kitchen. It also allows the compost bin to blend seamlessly into your existing kitchen layout and decor.

Where is the best place to hide a kitchen compost bin?

Some of the best places to hide compost bins are under sinks or in base cabinets, roll-out drawers or blind corner pull-outs, in butler’s pantries or under prep tables.

How do I prevent odors from a hidden compost bin?

Use bins with activated charcoal filters, compostable bin liners and tight sealing lids. Empty bins frequently, at least every 2-3 days. Make sure enclosed areas have ventilation holes.

What kind of compost bin is best for hiding?

Look for small plastic bins with snap-locking lids, slim ceramic crocks, or custom pull-out bins built specifically to fit concealed spaces like drawers or roll-outs.

How do I discreetly compost outdoors?

Outdoor options include compost tumblers on pads, enclosed bins in garden sheds, or installing attractive wooden enclosures or built-in cabinetry outside to conceal bins.

Can I build a compost bin into my kitchen island?

Yes, you can absolutely incorporate compost bins directly into kitchen islands or prep tables with custom cabinetry designed specifically for integrated pull-out bins.

Conclusion

Finding the ideal spot to conceal unsightly compost bins is a common dilemma in kitchen design. With some clever concealment inside cabinets, under prep tables, or even in outdoor enclosures, you can keep your composting habits tidy and discreet. The key is choosing the right sized bin for your space, incorporating ventilation and debris containment, and diligently taking out the “trash” on a regular basis. With a bit of planning and forethought, it’s easy to install housing for compost bins that looks like it was intended to be there all along.