Overview

Home composting is an easy and inexpensive way to create a valuable soil amendment from yard and household waste. Composting means less waste going into the landfill and less need for chemical fertilizers. 

While many people simply pile their compost in a heap, others may want to use a bin to contain their compost and speed up the composting process. Compost bins vary in size, use, and cost, whether you purchase a commercial product or build one yourself. This Do-It-Yourself Compost Bin series provides you with all you need to know to build your very own compost bin. 

Wire Mesh Composter

Wire mesh composting bins are inexpensive and easy to assemble, and they hold a large volume of yard materials (figure 1). Use hardware cloth wire for a sturdy bin that holds its shape. This bin can be used as a holding or turning unit. To use it as a turning unit, undo the latches or ties, set the bin up next to the pile, and transfer the composting materials back into the empty bin. Stakes can be added for additional stability, but this will make it harder to move the bin and harvest the finished compost. 

Construction Materials

Construction details 

Roll out and cut 12½’ of hardware cloth. Snip the ends off of the hardware cloth close to a cross wire. Then file down the sharp edges to make it easy to clip together and avoid snagging hands. Bend the hardware cloth into a circle and overlap the ends of the fencing over each other. Attach clips or ties and set the bin in a level place.

Optional: Place metal stakes evenly around the inside edge of the bin and hammer them into place.

Conclusion

Now you are ready to set your bin out in your yard and begin composting! Learn more about making and using compost in the garden as you get started.

Authors: Joe Van Rossum, former Recycling Specialist and Director at the Solid & Hazardous Waste Education Center (SHWEC) 
Rev: 2013
Item number: G4020-04

References