Composting for Apartment Dwellers: Yes, You Can
A Personal Story
When we first moved into a tiny apartment, I thought composting was off the table. No backyard, no dirt patch, not even a balcony. I figured composting was for people with big gardens, rubber boots, and the time to manage a pile of food scraps.
Then one day, I saw a neighbor carry a small countertop bin down the hall. She told me it was her compost container, and she dropped it off at a local community garden once a week. That tiny container completely changed my view. Composting wasn’t just for people with space—it was for anyone who wanted to make a difference.
And I realized… this is exactly the kind of example I want to set for Squish. Even in a small apartment, we can take small steps that have a big impact.
5 Easy Steps for Composting in an Apartment
1. Start Small—Literally
Don’t overcomplicate it. All you need to start is a small countertop compost bin or even a sealed container. Starting small makes it manageable and prevents overwhelm.
Why: It helps you build the habit before committing to anything bigger.
2. Know What to Compost
Think fruit peels, vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, tea bags, and eggshells. Avoid meat, dairy, and oily foods to prevent odors.
Why: Knowing the do’s and don’ts from the start will save you frustration (and bad smells).
3. Use a Compost Service or Drop-Off Point
If you can’t process compost at home, look for local compost pickup services, farmers’ markets, or community gardens that accept kitchen scraps.
Why: You contribute to composting efforts without having to manage the full process yourself.
4. Try an Indoor Composting System
Worm bins (vermicomposting) or electric countertop composters can break down scraps indoors without odor when done right.
Why: You control the process and can use the compost for houseplants or container gardens.
5. Keep It Odor-Free
Line your bin with compostable bags, empty it regularly, and freeze scraps if needed before drop-off.
Why: When it’s clean and easy, you’ll keep doing it.
A Loving Message to Squish
Squish,
I hope you always remember that we don’t need to wait for the “perfect conditions” to make a difference. Even the smallest actions matter. Composting in our little apartment has taught us that we can live with purpose anywhere, and that taking care of the earth is something we do together. It’s about being mindful of what we have and giving back—even if it’s just a handful of vegetable scraps at a time.
Love Always,
Mom and Dad
Helpful Amazon Finds
Here are a few tools that make apartment composting easy and odor-free:
Countertop Compost Bin with Charcoal Filter – Stylish, compact, and controls odors.
Compostable Bin Liners – Makes cleanup quick and simple.
Electric Countertop Composter – Turns scraps into compost in hours.
Indoor Worm Composting Bin – Low-maintenance and perfect for kids to learn about composting.
Scrap Storage Container for Freezer – Store scraps until you’re ready for drop-off.
The post uses affiliate links and we may make money if you click on the link and purchase, with no extra charge to you. We only recommend products we believe in and use in our own home.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a yard. You don’t need a big compost pile. You don’t need to “do it perfectly.” You just need a container, a little knowledge, and the willingness to start. If you’re ready to make a small change with a big impact, pick one step from above and try it this week. Let’s show our kids—and ourselves—that we can care for the planet, no matter where we live.
