The Best Kitchen Compost Bin with Filter: A Casual Guide to Composting at Home
Hey there! If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably been meaning to get into composting for a while now. I mean, who doesn’t want to turn their kitchen scraps into something useful instead of just tossing them in the trash?
But let’s be real—composting can feel a bit intimidating at first, especially when you’re dealing with onion peels and coffee grounds stinking up your kitchen.
That’s where finding the best kitchen compost bin with filter comes in clutch.
A good bin with a filter keeps the smells at bay and makes the whole process way less of a chore. So, I’ve done some digging (pun intended) and picked out three awesome options across low, mid, and high price ranges to share with you.
Let’s dive in and figure out which one might be your composting soulmate!
Why a Filter Matters in a Kitchen Compost Bin
Before we get into the bins, let’s chat about why I’m obsessed with the idea of the best kitchen compost bin with filter.
Filters—usually made of charcoal or carbon—are like the unsung heroes of composting.
They trap those funky odors that come from decomposing veggie scraps, eggshells, and whatever else you’re tossing in there.
Without a filter, you’re basically inviting fruit flies to a party in your kitchen, and trust me, they RSVP yes every time.
A good filter keeps things fresh, so you can keep your bin on the counter without gagging every time you walk by.
Plus, it’s a game-changer if you’re not emptying your scraps every single day (because, let’s face it, life gets busy).
Low Price Range: Utopia Kitchen Compost Bin ($27)
Price: Around $27
Capacity: 1.3 gallons
Why I Like It: Affordable, sturdy, and smells stay locked in.
First up, we’ve got the Utopia Kitchen Compost Bin, which is basically the budget-friendly MVP of composting.
For under 30 bucks, you’re getting a stainless steel bin that’s tough enough to handle daily use without breaking the bank.
I love that it’s got a charcoal filter tucked into the lid—seriously, this thing keeps the stink under control even when I’ve let onion skins sit in there for a few days.
It holds 1.3 gallons, which is perfect for a small household or someone like me who cooks a lot but doesn’t want to trek to the outdoor compost pile every other day.
The design is sleek too—no ugly plastic vibes here. It’s got a brushed stainless steel finish that looks pretty darn good sitting next to my coffee maker.
Cleanup’s a breeze; I just rinse it out with some soapy water, and the filter can be soaked and reused for a while before you need a replacement. At this price, it’s hard to beat if you’re just dipping your toes into composting.
Tip: To stretch the life of that charcoal filter, give it a quick rinse with warm water and soap every couple of weeks, then let it air dry. It’ll keep working like a champ for months.
Downside: The lid isn’t super tight, so if you overfill it, you might get a whiff of something funky. Just don’t be like me and try to cram a week’s worth of scraps in there at once!
Mid Price Range: Bamboozle Portable Compost Bin ($40-$50)
Price: Around $40-$50
Capacity: 1 gallon
Why I Like It: Cute, eco-friendly, and smells don’t stand a chance.
Next up is the Bamboozle Portable Compost Bin, which sits nicely in that mid-range sweet spot. This one’s a little pricier—usually between $40 and $50—but it’s got some serious charm going for it.
Made from bamboo fiber (yep, it’s biodegradable!), it’s got this earthy, natural vibe that makes me feel all eco-warrior-ish.
Plus, it comes in a bunch of fun colors, so it’s not just a bin—it’s a kitchen accessory.
The best kitchen compost bin with filter vibes are strong here because it’s got a hefty charcoal filter in the lid that does an awesome job at keeping odors locked down. I tested it with some pretty smelly stuff (looking at you, leftover garlic peels), and my kitchen still smelled like… well, nothing bad.
It’s a bit smaller at 1 gallon, so it’s great if you’ve got limited counter space or you’re composting for one or two people.
The handle makes it easy to carry out to the big compost pile when it’s full, and it even comes with a spare filter, which is a nice bonus.
Tip: If you’re worried about fruit flies (because who isn’t?), toss a layer of shredded newspaper or a paper towel over your scraps each time you add to the bin. It’s like a little blanket that keeps the pests away.
Downside: The bamboo material can stain if you let wet scraps sit too long, so I’d recommend emptying it regularly or using a compostable liner to keep it looking fresh.
High Price Range: Epica Countertop Compost Bin ($50-$60)
Price: Around $50-$60
Capacity: 1.3 gallons
Why I Like It: Built to last and smells vanish like magic.
Check out our full review on the Epica HERE
Alright, if you’re ready to splurge a little, the Epica Countertop Compost Bin is where it’s at. Coming in at $50-$60, this one’s the fancy pants of the group, and it’s easy to see why it’s often called the best kitchen compost bin with filter by composting nerds like me.
It’s made of high-grade stainless steel that feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, and the airtight lid with dual charcoal filters is next-level odor control.
I left some pretty ripe banana peels in there for a week (don’t judge me), and my kitchen still smelled like my lavender candle instead of a dumpster.
The 1.3-gallon size is just right—not too big, not too small—and it’s got a wide opening that makes scraping scraps off a cutting board super easy.
It’s also rust-proof and leak-resistant, so no worries about gross drips on your counter. The filters are replaceable, and while they’re not cheap, they last a good three to six months if you take care of them.
Honestly, this bin feels like a long-term investment, and it’s pretty enough to leave out without feeling like it’s cluttering up your space.
Check out our full review on the Epica HERE
Tip: Freeze your scraps overnight before tossing them in if you know you won’t empty the bin for a few days. It slows down the stink factor and keeps everything chill until you’re ready.
Downside: It’s a bit heavier than the others, so if you’re hauling it out to the backyard a lot, you might feel the weight. Also, those replacement filters can add up over time.
My Take: Which One’s the Best Kitchen Compost Bin with Filter for You?
So, here’s the deal—picking the best kitchen compost bin with filter totally depends on your vibe. If you’re on a tight budget or just starting out, the Utopia Kitchen bin is a no-brainer. It’s cheap, it works, and it won’t let you down.
If you want something with a little more personality and eco-cred, the Bamboozle is your guy—it’s adorable and does the job without breaking the bank too hard.
And if you’re ready to go all-in on composting like it’s your new hobby, the Epica is worth every penny for its durability and odor-crushing powers.
For me? I’m leaning toward the Epica because I’m a sucker for stuff that lasts forever, and I hate dealing with smells.
But honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of these—they’re all solid picks in their own way.
Handy Composting Tips to Level Up Your Game
- Mix It Up: Toss in some “browns” like shredded cardboard or dry leaves with your “greens” (veggie scraps). It keeps things from getting too soggy and smelly.
- Chop It Small: Smaller scraps break down faster. I give my carrot tops a quick chop before they hit the bin.
- Keep It Dry: If your bin’s getting slimy, add a handful of dry stuff like paper or sawdust to soak up the moisture.
- Empty Often: Even with the best kitchen compost bin, don’t let it sit full for too long—once a week is my sweet spot.
- Fridge Hack: No room on the counter? Pop your bin in the fridge or freezer to keep smells and flies at zero.
10 FAQs About the Best Kitchen Compost Bin with Filter
- What’s the point of a filter in a compost bin?
It traps odors so your kitchen doesn’t smell like a landfill. Charcoal or carbon filters are the MVPs here. - How often do I need to replace the filter?
Usually every 3-6 months, depending on how much you’re composting and how stinky your scraps are. - Can I compost meat or dairy in these bins?
Technically yes, but I’d skip it—those can attract pests and make your bin a mess. Stick to veggie scraps and coffee grounds. - Do I need compostable bags with these bins?
Nope, but they make cleanup easier. Just check if your local compost program accepts them. - How do I stop fruit flies from crashing the party?
Cover scraps with a paper towel or newspaper, and don’t let the bin get too full. Works like a charm. - Can I keep my bin under the sink instead of on the counter?
Totally! Just make sure it’s easy to grab when you’re cooking. - What’s the best size for a kitchen compost bin?
1-1.75 gallons is perfect for most households—big enough for a few days’ worth but not so big it’s overwhelming. - How do I clean the bin and filter?
Warm soapy water for the bin, and soak the filter the same way, then air dry. Easy peasy. - Will my kitchen still smell with a filter?
Not if you’ve got a good one! Thse bins keeps things fresh unless you overstuff it. - Are expensive bins worth it?
If you’re composting a lot or want something that lasts, yeah. Otherwise, a cheap one with a filter still gets the job done.
Wrapping It Up
Composting doesn’t have to be a smelly, complicated hassle. With any of the bins reviewed here, you can turn your scraps into garden gold without turning your kitchen into a science experiment gone wrong.
Whether you go for the wallet-friendly Utopia, the stylish Bamboozle, or the heavy-duty Epica, you’re making a solid choice for your home and the planet.
So, grab a bin, start tossing those peels, and let’s make composting the coolest thing since sliced bread (which, by the way, you can compost too)!
Check out our article on Best Composters For Home Use
Check out our article on How To Make Compost From Kitchen Waste
Check out our full review on the Epica HERE
