Containers and Bedding For worm Compost bins

Most anything will do to make a worm composting bin if it meets the certain criteria.

Containers for Worm Composting

A variety of containers make satisfactory worm bins.   Bins can be:
  • Commercially available vermicomposting units,
  • Plastic totes you adapt yourself,
  • Home-made wooden bins.
 Regardless of your choice, the worm bin you use MUST provide sufficient air flow.
  • Make sure the plastic ones are not soft plastic.  They will leak out chemicals which retard worm growth and reproduction. And, they should be opaque, not clear.
Because red worms need lots of oxygen, whatever the shape of your bin, it must have holes in the sides, top and bottom sufficient to let in air but keep out flies.  Our worm compost bin has holes on the sides and bottom for possible drainage, and also in the lid. 
  • If you put your compost bin outside, you must prevent water from getting in through the holes.

Size of Worm Bin

The size of the worm bin depends on the amount of organic waste you produce each week.  Our vermicomposting bin takes care of 3-5 pounds of food waste per week.  In theory, a redworm eats its own weight every day, but that amount also includes bedding as well as food.  You can start keeping track of your kitchen waste per day and then make your decision on the size your worm bin  and how many.
  • A good rule of thumb:  The average person generates 1 to 1 ½ pounds of kitchen waste per week

The bedding for your compost bin should be a "sea" for the worms, allowing them to burrow freely.  The bedding should:
  • Allow oxygen flow.
  • Be light-weight.
  • Retain moisture.
  • Be non-toxic.
  • Be easily digested by the worms
Our Vermicomposting Guide, provided FREE with your worm order or available for purchase, provides you with detailed instructions on selecting your worm bin and worm bin bedding.  You'll find easy to follow steps for preparing you worm bin and bedding, avoiding potential problems.
  • This guide is sent to you ahead of your order via email so you'll have all the information you need ahead of time.