Things You Can Compost

Lisa Mason

When it comes to eco-friendly living, there are many great ways to practice green habits. This is a lifestyle choice and one that you will continue to make for the rest of your life. Most people start off with little things like recycling here and there and then build up their green habits over time. If you are new to composting or just thinking about composting, it can be helpful to learn more about the things you can compost.

I was surprised at many of the things that can be composted. Here is a shortlist:

  • Paper napkins
  • Freezer-burned vegetables
  • Pet hair
  • Wood chips/sawdust
  • Hay
  • Old spices
  • Matches
  • Freezer-burned fish
  • Leaves and yard brush
  • Hops
  • Grass clippings
  • Paper towels
  • Molasses residue
  • Potato peelings
  • Hair clippings
  • Egg shells
  • Coffee grounds
  • Soy milk
  • Moldy cheese
  • Nail/toenail clippings
  • Peanut shells
  • Shrimp shells
  • And so much more!

This is definitely not an exhaustive list of the things you can compost. If it's organic, there is a high chance it can be used in the compost. Some people even set up multiple compost bins for different items or for varying degrees of composition. You can learn more about composting from the How to Compost website. I find it to be a great source for composting information, especially for those who are new to the practice.

Keep in mind that there are some things that can be composted but are considered higher risk. Some people just don't want to deal with these things. They might include manure, urine or dryer lint. These are not usually recommended for people new to composting but if you are interested in composting everything possible, then it might serve you well to take the time to research these things and make a decision for yourself.

There are also some things that are recommended to not compost so be sure to do your research well when you begin your compost and it will save you a lot of time and trouble to help prevent things going wrong. Remember too also that composting and organic gardening go hand and in hand so if you're not already gardening at home, now is a great time to start. That compost will come in handy time and time again for your garden.

Published by Lisa Mason - Featured Contributor in Technology

Lisa Mason is a freelance writer and social media marketer with more than 10 years of experience. As VP of Special Media for Social Media Sun, she makes sure that readers have access to the most relevant and...  View profile

1 Comments

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  • Laura Cone8/30/2011

    great work

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