25 Kitchen Scraps You Should Be Composting (and 5 You Shouldn’t): Essential Guide for Home Composting

Turning kitchen scraps into rich compost is one of the simplest ways to cut waste and feed your garden. You can safely compost 25 common kitchen scraps that add valuable nutrients to your soil while avoiding 5 that can cause problems. Knowing the difference helps you create healthy compost without attracting pests or producing bad odors.

You’ll learn exactly which items belong in your compost bin and which ones to keep out. With the right mix, your scraps will break down into a nutrient-rich material that improves soil health and plant growth. For a step-by-step guide to getting started, check out Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Whether you’re composting in a backyard bin or a small container, the right approach makes all the difference. By following these tips, you’ll turn everyday waste into a valuable gardening resource. If you want to master the process and avoid common mistakes, grab your copy of Backyard Composting Made Easy today.

Key Takeaways

• Composting the right scraps creates healthy, nutrient-rich soil
• Avoid certain items to prevent pests and bad odors
• The right balance speeds up decomposition and improves results

Why Compost Kitchen Scraps?

Composting kitchen scraps turns everyday waste into a useful resource that supports healthy soil and reduces strain on landfills. By managing what you throw away, you can cut methane emissions, save money on fertilizer, and create better conditions for plants to grow.

Environmental Impact of Composting

When food waste ends up in landfills, it breaks down without oxygen and produces methane, a greenhouse gas far more potent than carbon dioxide. Composting avoids this anaerobic process by allowing organic matter to decompose with oxygen.

This process reduces methane emissions and keeps valuable nutrients in use rather than buried in trash. According to the EPA, food scraps and yard waste make up about 30% of landfill material.

By composting at home, you help lower landfill volume, reduce the need for chemical fertilizers, and support a more sustainable waste system. If you want a step-by-step guide to get started, download Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Reducing Food Waste at Home

Many kitchen scraps—like fruit peels, coffee grounds, and eggshells—are often thrown away despite being valuable compost material. Separating these scraps from your regular trash can significantly reduce the amount of waste your household produces.

This habit also makes you more aware of your food use. You may find yourself buying only what you need, which saves money and reduces spoilage.

Keeping a small container or compost pail in your kitchen makes it easy to collect scraps. Once full, transfer them to your compost bin or pile. For practical tips on setting up your system, check out Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Benefits for Soil and Plants

Finished compost improves soil structure, helping it hold moisture while still draining well. This balance supports strong root growth and reduces the need for frequent watering.

Compost also adds essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which plants need to grow. Unlike synthetic fertilizers, compost releases nutrients slowly, reducing the risk of nutrient runoff into waterways.

Healthy soil with added compost supports beneficial microbes and earthworms, creating a thriving ecosystem in your garden. To learn how to make nutrient-rich compost that boosts plant health, grab your copy of Backyard Composting Made Easy.

How Composting Works

Composting turns organic matter like food scraps and yard waste into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. This process depends on the right mix of materials, moisture, and air to break down waste efficiently and safely.

When you understand how each part works, you can manage your pile to produce high-quality compost faster and with fewer problems.

The Decomposition Process

During the composting process, organic matter breaks down into simpler compounds through aerobic decomposition. This means oxygen is present, which helps prevent foul odors and supports healthy microbial activity.

The process happens in stages. First, easily degradable materials like fruit scraps and fresh grass clippings break down quickly. Then, tougher materials such as stems and woody debris decompose more slowly.

Temperature changes signal progress. A well-built pile can heat up to 130–160°F, which helps kill weed seeds and harmful pathogens. If your pile cools too soon, you may need to add more nitrogen-rich material or turn it for better aeration.

If you want a step-by-step guide to building and maintaining a pile that decomposes efficiently, check out Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Role of Microorganisms

Microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes are the main drivers of decomposition. They consume carbon for energy and nitrogen for building proteins, breaking down organic matter into stable compost.

Bacteria work fastest in the early stages, especially when temperatures are high. Fungi help decompose tougher plant material, while actinomycetes break down woody debris and give compost its earthy smell.

These organisms need oxygen to thrive. Turning your pile regularly keeps it aerated and speeds up their work. Without enough oxygen, anaerobic microbes take over, creating unpleasant odors and slowing the composting process.

Maintaining the right conditions for these organisms is key. For practical tips on creating a microbe-friendly pile, see Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Balancing Carbon and Nitrogen

A balanced compost pile needs both carbon-rich “browns” and nitrogen-rich “greens”. Browns include dry leaves, shredded cardboard, and straw. Greens include fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and fresh grass clippings.

A common ratio is about 2–3 parts browns to 1 part greens by volume. Too much carbon slows decomposition, while too much nitrogen can cause odors.

Here’s a quick reference:

Adjusting this balance keeps microorganisms active and your compost pile healthy. For more ratio tips and material lists, explore Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Choosing the Right Compost Bin

The right compost bin helps you manage kitchen scraps efficiently, control odors, and produce quality compost. Your choice depends on your space, climate, and how much time you want to spend maintaining your compost.

Types of Compost Bins

Compost bins come in several designs, each with its own pros and cons. Traditional bins are stationary containers made of plastic, wood, or metal. They are simple, affordable, and work well for moderate waste volumes.

Tumbler composters are enclosed drums you rotate to mix materials. They speed up decomposition but cost more and hold less waste than large stationary bins.

Worm bins (vermicomposters) use worms to break down scraps quickly and work well indoors or in small spaces. Bokashi bins ferment food waste, including meat and dairy, but require burying the fermented material afterward.

If you need help deciding which type fits your space and lifestyle, you can find a detailed breakdown of bin options in this compost bin guide. For step-by-step composting tips, get your copy of Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Composting

Indoor composting works well if you have no yard or live in a cold climate. Worm bins and bokashi systems are compact, odor-controlled, and fit under sinks or in closets. They require regular attention but produce high-quality compost or compost starter.

Outdoor composting gives you more capacity. Large compost bins or open compost piles can handle yard waste along with food scraps. You can also choose a tumbler for faster results and better pest control.

If you have a garden, outdoor bins let you place compost close to where you’ll use it. For a complete setup plan, check out Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Compost Pile vs. Tumbler

A compost pile is simply an open heap or a bin without a lid. It’s inexpensive, easy to start, and can handle large amounts of waste. However, piles take longer to break down materials and require manual turning for aeration.

A tumbler is enclosed, which keeps pests out and helps maintain heat for faster decomposition. Turning is as simple as rotating the drum. Tumblers cost more and hold less than a large pile, but they produce compost more quickly.

If speed and tidiness matter, a tumbler may be your best choice. If volume and low cost are priorities, a pile works well. Learn how to set up either method in Backyard Composting Made Easy.

25 Kitchen Scraps You Should Be Composting

Many common food scraps and household items can break down into rich compost that improves soil health. These materials provide nutrients, help maintain a balanced compost mix, and reduce the amount of organic waste going to landfills.

Fruit and Vegetable Scraps

Fruit and vegetable scraps decompose quickly and supply nitrogen, potassium, and other essential nutrients. You can compost peels, cores, stems, seeds, and trimmings from both raw and cooked produce.

Avoid adding scraps coated with oils, butter, or dairy, as these can slow decomposition. Chop larger pieces into smaller chunks to speed up the process.

High-moisture scraps like melon rinds or cucumber peels should be balanced with dry “brown” materials, such as shredded cardboard, to prevent a soggy pile.

Examples of good additions:

• Apple cores
• Carrot peels
• Lettuce leaves
• Potato skins

If you want a step-by-step guide to composting these effectively, check out Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Coffee Grounds and Tea Leaves

Coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, which supports the microorganisms that break down organic waste. You can add them directly to your compost, along with unbleached paper filters.

Used tea leaves also make an excellent addition. Loose leaves break down quickly, while tea bags may need the staples or strings removed. Some tea bags contain synthetic fibers, so check before composting.

These materials can help balance a compost pile heavy in carbon-rich “browns.” Mixing grounds and leaves into the pile prevents clumping and improves airflow.

Quick tip: Spread coffee grounds thinly to avoid creating dense layers that block oxygen.

Learn how to combine these with other scraps in Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Eggshells and Bread

Crushed eggshells add calcium, which supports plant cell growth and helps prevent issues like blossom end rot in tomatoes. Rinse them before composting to reduce odor and speed up breakdown.

Stale bread, rolls, and other plain baked goods can also be composted. Tear them into small pieces to prevent clumping and mold buildup. Avoid bread with butter, cheese, or heavy oils.

Both eggshells and bread provide variety to your compost, improving texture and nutrient content.

Tip: Store eggshells in a container until you have enough to crush and add in bulk.

Paper Towels and Cardboard

Plain paper towels and uncoated cardboard are excellent carbon-rich materials. They absorb excess moisture and help keep the pile aerated.

Shred cardboard into small strips for faster decomposition. Avoid glossy, colored, or wax-coated paper products, as these may contain chemicals that harm compost microbes.

Paper towels used to wipe up water, fruit juice, or other food-safe liquids are fine to compost. Skip those with cleaning chemicals or grease.

These “browns” are especially useful for balancing wet fruit and vegetable scraps. For a full breakdown of how to layer them with other materials, see Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Additional Compostable Kitchen Items

Many overlooked kitchen scraps can add valuable nutrients and structure to your compost pile. Using these materials correctly can help you maintain a balanced mix of greens and browns, improve soil health, and reduce waste.

Herbs and Spices

Wilted or dried herbs, as well as expired ground spices, can go straight into your compost. They are organic materials that break down quickly and add trace minerals to the finished compost.

Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, and basil count as nitrogen-rich greens. Dried herbs and spices, such as oregano, cinnamon, or turmeric, lean more toward browns and help balance a pile heavy in fresh scraps.

Avoid adding large amounts of salt-heavy seasoning blends, as excess salt can harm soil microbes. If you are unsure, check labels and use sparingly.

Mix herbs and spices evenly into the pile to avoid clumping. This helps them decompose efficiently and prevents mold growth.

For more practical composting tips, grab a copy of Backyard Composting Made Easy and learn how to get the most from every scrap.

Pasta and Grains

Cooked or uncooked pasta, rice, barley, and oats can be composted in small amounts. They provide carbon and break down at a moderate speed.

Always avoid pasta or grains with sauces, oils, or cheese, as these can attract pests and slow decomposition. Plain, cooled pasta or grains are best.

Break up clumps before adding them to the pile. This increases airflow and prevents the material from becoming slimy.

If you compost in an open pile, bury pasta and grains at least 8 inches deep to deter rodents and birds.

For detailed methods on handling food scraps safely, check out Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Nutshells and Seeds

Hard nutshells from almonds, walnuts, and pecans are slow to break down but add texture and aeration to your compost. Crush them to speed the process.

Unsalted and unflavored shells are best. Salted shells can harm plants, so rinse them before adding.

Seeds from fruits and vegetables can also be composted, but some—like avocado pits—may take years to decompose unless shredded.

Mix nutshells and seeds with other browns to keep the pile balanced. They help prevent compaction and improve oxygen flow.

Houseplants and Flowers

Dead houseplants, wilted flowers, and old floral arrangements can be composted if they are free from synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilizers.

Remove plastic ties, pots, or floral foam before adding plant material to your pile. Chop stems and roots into smaller pieces to speed decomposition.

Dry flowers and leaves contribute carbon, while fresh plant matter adds nitrogen. Combining both helps maintain a healthy compost ratio.

If plants show signs of disease or heavy pest infestation, dispose of them instead of composting to avoid spreading problems.

For step-by-step composting guidance, download Backyard Composting Made Easy and learn how to process everything from kitchen scraps to yard waste.

Yard and Household Waste That Boost Compost

Certain yard and household materials can speed up composting and improve the quality of the finished compost. Using the right mix of nitrogen-rich “greens” and carbon-rich “browns” helps create a balanced environment for microbes to work efficiently.

Leaves and Grass Clippings

Dry leaves are a valuable carbon source. Shred or mulch them before adding to the pile to help them break down faster. If left whole, they can mat together and slow decomposition.

Fresh grass clippings provide nitrogen, but adding too much at once can cause odor and compaction. Mix them with dry materials like shredded leaves, cardboard, or straw.

A simple ratio to follow: 2 parts dry leaves to 1 part fresh grass. This balance keeps the compost aerated and prevents a slimy texture.

If you want step-by-step guidance on ratios and layering, check out Backyard Composting Made Easy for practical tips.

Weeds and Plant Trimmings

Many weeds and garden trimmings can be composted, but you should handle them carefully. Avoid adding weeds with mature seeds unless you have a hot compost system that reaches at least 140°F (60°C).

Chop stems and leaves into smaller pieces to speed up breakdown. Soft green cuttings add nitrogen, while dried stems add carbon.

Diseased plants should not go into a standard compost pile, as most home systems don’t get hot enough to kill pathogens. Instead, dispose of them separately or use a dedicated hot compost bin.

For more safe composting methods, Backyard Composting Made Easy offers a detailed troubleshooting section.

Paper Products and Shredded Newspaper

Plain paper, cardboard, and non-glossy newspaper are excellent carbon materials. Tear or shred them into small pieces before adding. This increases surface area and helps microbes work faster.

Avoid paper with heavy inks, coatings, or plastic layers. Brown paper bags, paper towel tubes, and shredded office paper are good choices.

Layer paper products between wetter kitchen or yard waste to absorb moisture and maintain airflow. This prevents clumping and keeps the pile balanced.

For a full list of compost-safe paper items and how to prepare them, see Backyard Composting Made Easy.

5 Kitchen Scraps You Should Not Compost

Some common kitchen scraps can disrupt the composting process, attract pests, or introduce harmful substances into your soil. Knowing which items to leave out helps you keep your compost healthy, safe, and effective for your garden.

Dairy Products

Milk, cheese, yogurt, and cream break down slowly and produce strong odors as they decompose. These smells can attract rodents, raccoons, and flies to your compost bin.

Dairy also contains fats and proteins that don’t compost well in standard backyard systems. They can create anaerobic (low-oxygen) conditions, leading to slimy, smelly clumps instead of nutrient-rich humus.

If you want to avoid these problems, keep dairy out of your pile. Instead, dispose of it in the trash or explore specialized composting systems designed for animal-based products. For a full guide to safer composting practices, get your copy of Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Oils and Fats

Cooking oils, butter, lard, and grease don’t mix well with compost. They coat organic matter, blocking moisture and airflow, which slows decomposition.

Oils also create a sticky environment that attracts pests. Even small amounts can cause unpleasant smells and imbalance the compost’s carbon-to-nitrogen ratio.

This category includes oily salad dressings, peanut butter, and grease-soaked paper towels. While plain paper towels are fine, those saturated with oil should go in the trash. If you want to learn how to maintain the right compost balance, check out Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Processed Foods

Highly processed foods—such as chips, candy, pastries, and frozen meals—often contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and excess salt. These additives can harm the beneficial microbes that break down compost.

Sugary and salty foods also attract unwanted pests. Even bread products with glazes or frosting can encourage mold growth and rodents.

If you must compost bread, stick to small amounts of plain, stale bread and bury it deep in the pile. Keep all other processed snacks out of your bin. For more tips on compost-friendly foods, see the guide in Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Pet Waste

Dog and cat feces should never go into your regular compost. They can contain parasites and harmful bacteria, such as Toxoplasma gondii, that survive the composting process and contaminate your garden.

This applies to soiled cat litter as well, even if labeled “biodegradable.” Most backyard piles don’t reach the high temperatures needed to kill pathogens in pet waste.

If you want to compost manure safely, stick to herbivorous animals like rabbits, chickens, or goats. Their droppings can be a valuable fertilizer when properly composted.

Cooked and Oily Foods

Leftover cooked meals—especially those with oils, sauces, or seasonings—are a poor fit for compost. Cooked rice, pasta, and casseroles can clump together, creating anaerobic pockets that smell and slow decomposition.

Foods with added oils or butter have the same pest-attracting problems as pure fats. Spices and salt can also harm compost microbes.

If you want to compost cooked grains, use only plain, unseasoned, and oil-free versions in small amounts, and bury them deep. Otherwise, dispose of them another way to keep your compost healthy.

Maintaining the Perfect Compost Balance

A healthy compost pile depends on the right mix of organic materials, enough air movement, and proper moisture levels. Paying attention to these factors helps your compost break down faster and produce nutrient-rich results for your garden.

Green Materials vs. Carbon-Rich Materials

Green materials provide nitrogen, which fuels microbial activity. These include fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and fresh grass clippings. Carbon-rich materials, often called browns, supply energy and structure. Examples include dry leaves, shredded cardboard, and straw.

Aim for a rough ratio of 2–3 parts carbon-rich materials to 1 part green materials. Too many greens can cause odor and soggy compost. Too many browns can slow decomposition.

Layering greens and browns can help maintain balance. For example:

If you want a step-by-step guide to balancing materials, check out Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Managing Moisture and Aeration

Moisture is key for microbial activity. Your compost should feel like a wrung-out sponge—damp but not dripping. If it’s too dry, decomposition slows. If it’s too wet, oxygen levels drop and odors develop.

Add water when the pile feels dry, ideally using a gentle spray. If it’s too wet, mix in more browns such as shredded cardboard or straw.

Aeration keeps oxygen flowing, which helps break down materials and prevents anaerobic smells. Turn your compost every 1–2 weeks with a pitchfork or aeration tool. For faster results, you can turn it more often.

For more practical tips on moisture and airflow, see Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your compost smells like ammonia, it likely has too many greens. Add more browns and turn the pile to increase airflow.

If decomposition is slow, check moisture and temperature. A cold, dry pile needs water and more greens. A cold, wet pile needs more browns and aeration.

Pests like rodents can be avoided by not adding meat, dairy, or oily foods. Cover fresh scraps with a layer of browns to reduce attraction.

For a complete troubleshooting checklist, Backyard Composting Made Easy can help you identify and fix problems quickly.

Maximizing Nutrient-Rich Compost for Your Garden

Healthy compost improves soil structure, boosts nutrient availability, and supports strong plant growth. To get the best results, you need to know when compost is ready, how to use it effectively, and how to store it so it keeps its quality.

When Is Compost Ready to Use?

Finished compost should look dark brown, feel crumbly, and smell earthy. You should not be able to recognize the original food scraps or yard waste.

Temperature is another clue. Active compost piles are warm inside, but mature compost has cooled to match the surrounding air.

If you use a pile that is still breaking down, it can compete with plants for nitrogen. This may slow growth. Waiting until it is fully decomposed ensures nutrients are available right away.

A simple readiness test is the bag test. Place a small amount of compost in a sealed plastic bag for a few days. If it smells sour or ammonia-like, it needs more time.

For faster results, turn your pile regularly and keep a balanced mix of “greens” and “browns.” You can learn step-by-step techniques in Backyard Composting Made Easy.

How to Apply Finished Compost

You can use nutrient-rich compost in several ways:

Avoid piling compost directly against plant stems to prevent rot.

Apply in early spring to prepare beds or in fall to enrich soil for the next season. You can also use it mid-season for heavy-feeding crops like tomatoes.

For more application tips and ratios, download Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Storing and Handling Compost

If you cannot use your compost right away, store it in a dry, covered area. Excess moisture can cause nutrient loss and foul odors.

Use breathable containers like bins with ventilation holes or loosely covered piles. This prevents anaerobic conditions while keeping pests out.

Keep compost out of direct sun to protect beneficial microbes. Shade helps maintain moisture without overheating.

If stored for months, check it occasionally. Turn it lightly to keep air moving and prevent compaction.

For year-round composting guidance and storage solutions, see Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Composting for a Sustainable Future

By turning your kitchen scraps into compost, you help divert organic waste from landfills, improve soil health, and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers. This practice lowers your environmental impact while creating a steady supply of nutrient-rich material for your plants.

Reducing Landfill Waste

Food scraps and yard trimmings make up a large share of municipal solid waste. When organic waste ends up in landfills, it breaks down without oxygen and produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

By composting at home, you keep these materials out of the landfill and reduce harmful emissions. Even small-scale composting can make a measurable difference in waste reduction.

You can start by separating compostable items like fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, and eggshells from your trash. Avoid adding meat, dairy, or oily foods, which can cause odor and pest issues.

If you want a step-by-step guide to setting up your own system, grab a copy of Backyard Composting Made Easy to learn how to manage your pile effectively.

Supporting Sustainable Gardening

Compost improves soil structure, increases water retention, and provides a balanced supply of nutrients. This reduces your reliance on chemical fertilizers, which can harm beneficial soil organisms and leach into waterways.

Healthy soil from composting supports stronger plant growth and better yields. In urban gardening, it also helps container plants resist disease and stress.

You can create a sustainable loop: kitchen scraps feed the compost, compost feeds the soil, and the soil feeds your plants. This cycle reduces your need for store-bought soil amendments and keeps your garden productive year-round.

For practical tips on building this cycle in your own backyard, check out Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Long-Term Environmental Benefits

Consistent composting lowers your household’s carbon footprint by cutting methane emissions and reducing the energy used in transporting waste. Over time, it also improves soil’s ability to store carbon, which helps combat climate change.

Compost-rich soil supports biodiversity by creating a habitat for earthworms, microbes, and other beneficial organisms. These organisms help break down organic matter naturally and maintain soil fertility.

When you compost regularly, you contribute to a healthier ecosystem both in your garden and beyond. If you’re ready to start making a lasting impact, Backyard Composting Made Easy can walk you through every step.

Frequently Asked Questions

Successful composting depends on using the right mix of materials, avoiding problem items, and following simple methods that fit your space and needs. Knowing which scraps to include and which to skip will help you create healthy compost without attracting pests or causing odors.

What are the essential items to include when starting a compost bin?

You should include a mix of greens like fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, and fresh grass clippings, and browns like dry leaves, shredded cardboard, and paper.

Aim for about three parts browns to one part greens. This balance helps materials break down efficiently and keeps odors under control.

If you want a step-by-step guide to building a healthy compost system, check out Backyard Composting Made Easy.

Why should certain cooked foods be excluded from composting?

Cooked foods with oil, butter, or heavy seasoning can slow decomposition and attract pests. These foods may also cause unpleasant smells as they break down.

Meat, dairy, and greasy leftovers are especially problematic in a home compost pile because they can harbor harmful bacteria.

Can bread products be safely added to a compost pile?

Yes, bread, pasta, and rice can be composted in small amounts. Break them into smaller pieces and bury them deep in the pile to reduce the risk of rodents or birds finding them.

Avoid bread products with butter, oil, or sugary coatings, as these can cause odor problems.

What are the common kitchen scraps that should not be composted?

Avoid composting meat, fish, bones, dairy products, oily foods, pet waste, and diseased plant material. These can introduce pathogens, attract pests, or disrupt the composting process.

Large amounts of citrus peels can also lower the pH of your pile, so limit them to small quantities. You can see a detailed breakdown of problem scraps in this list of kitchen scraps to avoid.

How can one effectively compost at home?

Use a secure bin or pile with good airflow. Turn the compost every 1–2 weeks to add oxygen and speed up decomposition.

Keep the pile as moist as a wrung-out sponge, and always cover fresh scraps with browns to deter pests. For an easy-to-follow home composting plan, read Backyard Composting Made Easy.

What materials are considered ideal for composting in urban areas like NYC?

In cities, space is limited, so choose scraps that break down quickly and don’t attract pests. Good options include fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, tea leaves, and shredded paper.

Urban composting programs, such as those in NYC, often accept a wider range of items, including some cooked foods, because they process them in high-temperature facilities. If you’re composting indoors or on a balcony, a worm bin or sealed composting system can be a practical choice.

For more tips on composting in small spaces, start with Backyard Composting Made Easy.