Tips & Tricks

Managing the Bucket

Tip #1

Curbside Customers: To prevent your collection bucket from being accidentally taken by the trash/recycling folks or by passersby thinking they are there to be discarded, place your bucket about 10 – 15 feet from the curb in a spot not blocked from view by trees or bushes.

Tip #2

The liners we use are designed to melt eventually – but not in your bucket. For best results store your bucket in the shade and allow hot/warm foods (coffee grounds/tea) to cool first before adding to the liner. Try to place acidic food scraps (citrus, coffer/tea) in center of the liner so that they do not touch the sides.

Tip #3

A great way to eliminate any liquid building up in the bucket from your food scraps breaking down is to toss all your used paper towels in with the food scraps.

Tip #4

Freezing your food scraps during the week or when away eliminates all the ‘icky’ issues that sometimes come up.

Tip #5

During the winter season, to keep the liner from icing up and sticking to the bucket, place a crumpled up brown paper grocery bag in the bottom of the bucket.

Tip #6

A quick spray or cleaning with hot soapy water keeps your bucket smelling fresh. Make sure it dries completely before using. This prevents bacteria and odors from developing.

“The Compost Exchange has been a great experience and my only regret is that we did not join up sooner.”

— MICHAEL M., REYNOLDSBURG, OH