Connie's Bin

Based on my yard and the critters that visit, I narrowed down my selection to the Earth Machine. I talked to some folks in town and decided on the Earth Machine, because I don’t think we will fill it in one season. The lid comes off the top so I can dump the goods into it and there is a door on the front if I need to get into the gold at the bottom.  I can also push the bin over to separate the bottom of the bin from the top so I can get at the compost much easier. I could be wrong about how long it will take to fill it, but if I fill it faster than I predict, I can always get another one.

Earth Machine vs. New Age Composter

The Earth Machine holds 10.5 cubic feet, is round, 33” deep and 34” wide. It has a locking cover that can also be adjusted to let more air into the bin. There is a sliding door for removal of compost AND it is made from recycled plastic!! The New Age Composter holds about 30 cubic feet, is round and adjustable, comes in a 42” long cylindrical roll, and is between 30-34” high. This one is self-aerating and has a cone shaped base and cover. It is also made from recycled plastic!!!

I spoke to a couple of families about these bins. One family has both bins and alternates using the compost from one bin or the other each year. Another resident uses the New Age Composter and said she used zip ties to assemble it, because the ties that came with the composter kept breaking. A zip tie is a type of fastener that is typically made of plastic. Good to know!

Now it’s time to make my own decision.  Which type of bin would work for me?