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What can you compost? A List of 100+ Items

Updated: Feb 4

Making your own compost is not just a sustainable practice but also a rewarding journey toward reducing waste and enriching the soil in your garden or green space.


The earthy aroma of damp leaves, the crunch of turning a compost pile, and the thrill of witnessing kitchen scraps turning into black gold are the magic of composting.



1. Introduction


When you embark on the journey to composting at home, every vegetable scrap, fallen leaf, and eggshell will start to feel like a tiny treasure, not waste, and will join the ever-growing compost pile.


But amidst the excitement, you may have often come across a nagging question:


Am I doing this right? What exactly can I compost?


From questionable pizza crusts to mysterious garden clippings, the world of compostables seems like a vast and uncharted territory, leaving you wondering what goes in a compost bin.


But fear not, fellow green thumbs! In this enlightening exploration, we present a comprehensive list of 100 items that demystify the art of composting—clarifying what can be the backbone of your compost pile and how to turn your organic waste into nutrient-rich black gold for your garden.


So roll up your sleeves and get ready to turn waste into wonder.



2. Basics of Composting


Before we explore the list of items you can use to make your own compost, let’s understand the basics of composting. Composting, at its core, is a natural process that transforms organic matter into a nutrient-rich soil conditioner. Composting is the controlled decomposition of organic materials through the activity of microorganisms, turning kitchen and garden waste into a valuable soil amendment.



3. The Process of Composting


Composting is a cyclical process that involves several stages, each playing a crucial role in the decomposition and creation of compost.


● Stage 1 -Collection : Gather a mix of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials. This can include kitchen scraps, yard waste, and more.


● Stage 2 - Piling : Layer the materials to optimize the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, which is essential for microbial activity.


● Stage 3 - Decomposition : Microorganisms break down the organic matter, generating heat and causing the pile to decompose.


● Stage 4 - Curing : Allow the compost to cure or mature, ensuring the breakdown process is complete and the compost is stable.



4. What Can You Compost?


This versatile and eco-friendly process allows you to turn a wide array of household and garden waste into nutrient-rich compost. However, amidst the enthusiasm for composting, confusion often arises about what can and cannot be tossed into the compost bin.


Let's unravel this mystery and explore the fascinating world of compostables, discovering the list of items that can seamlessly integrate into your compost pile to nurture a thriving and sustainable garden.



5. Kitchen Items


Here is a list of kitchen items you can add to your compost (click & expand to see more):


1. Fruit and vegetable scraps and peels - Green

Banana peels, apple cores, and potato peels are rich in nutrients.

Citrus peels are rich in nutrients and can also bring acidity to the compost. Excessive amounts of citrus peels might tip the balance, and using them in moderation is recommended to ensure a harmonious composting process.

Crushed eggshells add calcium and help balance the compost's pH levels.

Used coffee grounds provide a nitrogen boost to the compost.

Add tea bags for infusing organic matter. However, ensure the tea bags are made of natural materials like cotton and cornstarch.

Loose-leaf tea can also be added to the compost. If you are unsure of the material used in the teabag, you can open it and add the leaves alone.

Carbon-rich stale bread, tortillas, tortilla chips, and potato chips aid decomposition.

Thin and dry onion skins contribute to the carbon content. However, do not add onion to the compost as it can kill good microorganisms in your compost.

Legumes, including beans and lentils, add nitrogen to your compost, providing essential protein-rich material for microbial activity.

Dry garlic peels are carbon-rich and can be added to the compost.

High in starch, considered a carbon source.

High in nitrogen, excellent for compost.

Considered a carbon source in composting.

Rich in nitrogen, can be used to maintain the C/N ratio of the compost mix.

This slow-to-decompose carbon source should be added in limited quantities.

Despite being nutrient-rich, use in moderation as it can add acidic value to your compost mix.

High in moisture, adds nitrogen to the compost. Melon rinds can add a lot of moisture, so make sure to balance out by adding more dry, brown material.

Nutshells add carbon to the compost, helping to balance the nitrogen-rich green materials. Add nutshells to your compost, excluding walnut shells, which can release substances harmful to plants.

Adding lettuce leaves to compost provides essential nutrients and moisture retention properties. However, avoid adding diseased or pesticide-laden lettuce leaves to the compost.

While they break down slowly, they help balance nitrogen-rich green materials and may deter pests due to their strong aromas. Avoid mixing them with large amounts of salt, which can harm beneficial microorganisms in the compost.

Rich in nitrogen and nutrients, rice and pasta can be added to your compost. However, it's essential to avoid adding pasta and rice dishes with sauces or seasonings containing oils, salt, or other additives.

Adding crushed egg cartons helps to aerate the compost pile and retain moisture. However, ensure that the egg cartons are made of cardboard without plastic or wax coatings.

Used coffee filters can be used for composting as they break down quickly, offering a convenient way to recycle a byproduct of your morning brew.

Rich in minerals, seaweed enhances compost nutrient content.

Add spoiled soy, almond, coconut, or oat milk in limited quantities to your compost bin. However, it is important to maintain the moisture levels.

Tofu, a plant-based protein source, contributes nitrogen to the compost, acting as a valuable addition to nutrient balance.

Avocado pits, rich in carbon, add bulk to the compost pile and break down over time, contributing to compost structure.

Seeds that have lost viability or are no longer suitable for planting can be composted. Ensure they are free from disease or pests.


6. Yard Items


Your backyard is a treasure trove of organic compost material. Here is a list of items from your yard that you can use for composting:


1. Grass Clippings - Green

Grass clippings should be mixed with other compost materials to prevent matting and allow for proper aeration. Avoid adding grass clippings treated with herbicides or pesticides, as they can harm beneficial organisms in the compost pile.

Leaves are excellent additions to compost piles. Adding leaves to compost helps balance the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio and creates a well-aerated environment.

Small twigs can be added to the compost pile, contributing both carbon and aiding in aeration. Larger twigs may take longer to decompose, so it's helpful to break them into smaller pieces before adding them to the compost.

Once your blooms have faded, toss them into the compost bin to ensure a continuous cycle of life for your garden.

Pruned branches can be added to compost piles, but they should be chopped or shredded into smaller pieces for quicker decomposition. They can also be added for better aeration and moisture retention.

Weeds without seeds can be safely composted, provided they do not contribute to unwanted plant growth.

Rather than discarding dead plants, compost them to recycle their nutrients into the soil. However, avoid adding plants that are diseased or infested with pests, as these issues may persist in the compost.

Small amounts of unused or expired fertilizer can be composted, introducing beneficial minerals to your compost pile.

Fallen leaves, categorized as brown, bring carbon to the compost, providing structure and balance to the overall mix.



7. Bathroom Items


Bathroom items, often overlooked in composting, can make meaningful contributions to your compost pile. Bathroom items that can be tossed into the compost bin include:


1. Hair - Brown

Hair is rich in nitrogen and can be added to the compost pile. It helps to improve aeration and moisture retention.

Nail clippings can be composted as they are a source of nitrogen. However, make sure to avoid adding nail clippings with nail polish or acrylics.

Dryer lint made from natural fibers, such as cotton or wool, can be composted. It adds carbon to the compost pile.

Tissues and cotton balls made of natural fibers can be composted. They help to add carbon to the compost pile. However, if tissues or cotton balls have been used with chemical products like bleaches or synthetic fibers, it's best to avoid adding them to compost to prevent contamination.

Toothpicks and wooden items, such as popsicle sticks or skewers, can be composted. These items are considered brown materials and add carbon to the compost pile, aiding in the decomposition process.

An old cotton towel or cotton clothing can be used as composting materials after shredding them into smaller pieces to facilitate decomposition.



8. Household Items


Household items, often considered waste, can find a second life in your compost pile. By incorporating these items into your composting routine, you not only divert them from the landfill but also contribute to the creation of nutrient-rich compost for your garden. Here is a list of items you can add to your compost bin:


1. Cereal boxes - Brown

Empty cereal boxes made of cardboard can be torn up or shredded into smaller pieces and added to the compost bin. They provide a good source of carbon and helps to balance the nitrogen-rich materials in the compost pile.

Unbleached, plain paper towels and napkins are compostable, minimizing waste from daily cleaning routines.

Toilet paper rolls, typically made of cardboard, can be shredded and added to the compost.

Shred newspaper for a carbon-rich addition to your compost, utilizing newsprint in an eco-friendly manner.

Wine corks, usually made of natural cork material, can be decomposed in the compost pile.

Wood ash, in moderation, contributes minerals and helps balance pH levels. However, it is crucial to use fireplace ashes from natural wood or untreated materials only.

Bamboo items, such as toothbrushes or kitchen utensils, can be composted. Being a natural material, bamboo adds both carbon and diversity to your compost.

Pizza boxes made of uncoated cardboard can be composted. Ensure to remove any greasy or heavily soiled parts, as they may attract pests or hinder the composting process.



9. Office Items


Embracing composting in the office not only minimizes waste but also fosters a sustainable and eco-friendly workplace environment. Here is a list of office items you can put into your compost bin:


1. Shredded paper - Brown

Dispose of shredded paper to introduce carbon to your compost, repurposing office-related waste. Ensure the paper is free of glossy or colored ink.

Plants and flowers from the office can be composted, extending the life cycle of greenery. Remove any non-compostable elements like ribbons or floral foam.

Non-coated paper cups and plates can break down in the compost pile, offering a sustainable solution for disposable items. Make sure the cups are free of plastic lining.

Natural wood pencil shavings are compostable, turning office essentials into valuable compost material. Avoid pencils with synthetic coatings.

Break down cardboard packaging boxes into smaller pieces for effective composting. Remove any plastic or tape before composting.

Plain envelopes without plastic windows can be composted. Remove any plastic elements before adding them to the compost pile.

Paper towels used in the office can be composted, provided they are free of chemical cleaners or other non-compostable substances.

Sticky notes made of paper and adhesive can be composted, offering a simple way to recycle these office staples.

Used printer paper can be composted, making it a sustainable option for disposing of excess or outdated prints.

Paper business cards can be composted, provided they do not have any glossy or plastic coatings.

Old paper-based calendars can be shredded and added to the compost pile, ensuring they are free of any non-compostable elements.



10. Animal/Pet Waste


Composting animal and pet waste requires careful consideration due to potential pathogens. Here are some items from this category that can be composted with proper management:


1. Dog and cat fur - Brown

Shed pet fur is an excellent source of nitrogen, contributing to the overall nutrient content of the compost.

Bedding materials like straw, hay, or shredded paper from your pet's living area can break down in the compost pile. However, avoid composting pet bedding made from synthetic materials or treated with chemicals.

Droppings from herbivorous pets, such as rabbits, gerbils, pigs, or hamsters, can be added to compost piles. Ensure that the droppings are from herbivorous animals only, as droppings from carnivorous pets (e.g., cats and dogs) may contain pathogens that can be harmful in compost.

Chicken manure is a potent nitrogen source, accelerating decomposition.

Goat manure is rich in nitrogen and serves as an excellent green material for composting.

Horse manure is a balanced mix of carbon and nitrogen, providing valuable nutrients.

Cow manure offers a substantial nitrogen boost, enhancing the composting process.

Fish tank water can be added to compost piles in moderation. It contains beneficial nutrients, such as nitrogen and trace minerals, which can enrich the compost. Avoid using saltwater as it may contain harmful levels of salt and other chemicals that can disrupt the composting process and harm beneficial organisms.

Feathers from birds or poultry can be composted, providing a source of nitrogen.

Unopened or expired dry pet food can be composted, providing a source of nitrogen and carbon.

Rabbit droppings mixed with hay provide a well-balanced blend of nitrogen and carbon.

Liners made of paper from bird cages can be composted, especially if they are not treated with chemicals.

Substrates like coconut coir or bark from reptile enclosures can be composted if they are natural and untreated.

Plants from aquariums, if free from disease or chemicals, can be composted.

It is rich in nitrogen and other nutrients, which contribute to the decomposition process and enhance the quality of the compost.



11. Miscellaneous Items


Composting extends beyond the typical kitchen, yard, household, and office waste, welcoming a variety of items that might surprise you. Let’s explore the composting potential of miscellaneous items, turning what might be considered 'waste' into valuable contributors for your compost bin:


1. Hair and fur - Brown

Whether from your hairbrush or pet grooming sessions, hair and fur are rich in nitrogen and can be tossed into your compost bin.

Natural fabrics break down easily, adding carbon and improving compost texture.

Add burlap sacks to your compost bin after ensuring they are free from synthetic materials.

Ropes and twine made of natural materials like cotton, jute, or hemp can decompose easily, providing additional carbon.

Junk mail, including paper advertisements and flyers, can be added to compost piles as brown material. They are high in carbon and break down relatively quickly, contributing to the overall structure of the compost.

Unbleached paper tablecloths can be torn into pieces and added to your compost bin.

Dispose of your Christmas tree in the compost pile, turning it into valuable mulch. Chip or shred the Christmas tree into smaller pieces to facilitate decomposition.

Natural garlands made from materials like pine cones, dried fruits, or fresh greenery can be added to the compost bin.

Jack-O-Lanterns, which are carved pumpkins, can be added to compost piles after Halloween. Pumpkins are organic materials that break down readily in composting conditions.

Crushed seashells add calcium to the compost, benefiting soil structure.

Compost biodegradable latex balloons, ensuring they are free from synthetic dyes, glues, and other additives.

Unbleached, paper cupcake liners can be composted after use.

Sawdust from untreated wood provides a fantastic source of carbon for your compost. It helps balance the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, adds texture, and aids in moisture retention.

Used matches, composed of wood and a small amount of phosphorus, can be added to your compost. They contribute carbon and may have trace minerals.

Cotton bags that have reached the end of their usable life can be cut into smaller pieces and composted, providing a natural and biodegradable addition.

Bamboo skewers, especially those used for grilling, can be composted as they break down naturally, adding a touch of sustainability to your compost pile.

Used potting soil or spent soil from flowers and houseplants is an excellent addition to your compost. It adds a mix of organic matter and minerals, enhancing the overall nutrient profile.

Unbleached cotton tampons and sanitary pads, free from plastic or synthetic materials, can be composted. Make sure they are made of natural fibers without additives

Biodegradable sponges can be added to compost piles. These sponges are typically made from natural materials such as plant fibers or cellulose, which break down over time in composting conditions.

Brewery wastes, such as spent grains and hops, can be excellent additions to compost piles. These materials are rich in organic matter and nutrients, including nitrogen and carbon.

Dust bunnies, which consist of dust, hair, lint, and other small particles collected in corners or under furniture, can be added to compost piles. While they may not be a significant source of nutrients, they contribute to the organic matter in the compost pile.



12. Conclusion


Composting is a rewarding and eco-friendly practice that anyone can adopt.

By composting a diverse range of materials, you contribute to healthier soil, reduce waste, and play a role in sustainable living.


As we've explored the extensive list of "What Can You Compost," it becomes evident that our daily waste holds immense potential to nourish the earth rather than burdening landfills.


So, gather your compostable items, nurture your compost pile, and witness the transformation of waste into a valuable resource. Happy composting!

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