For some people, composting is something that just comes naturally. For others, it’s quite a challenge. Somehow it just doesn’t click into their kitchen routine.

How can you make it easier?

A simple way to make composting something you don’t have to go out of your way for is to keep a composting pail in your kitchen. It’s just a container where the food scraps go until you can take them all out to the compost pile.

You can keep this very simple if you like. My mother uses old coffee containers as compost pails. She keeps three or so under the sink. They seal tightly enough that smell is not a problem so long as the lid remains shut. They work great and she didn’t have to buy anything.

Other people may prefer to buy a compost pail. There can be advantages to buying something made for the job. Many come with carbon filters to help ensure that the smell is kept under control, for example. They can also look better so that you don’t have to keep them out of sight if you will do better having them in sight.

Some pails are designed to do the entire job of composting. This is handy if you don’t have the space outside for a compost pile. They use an anaerobic fermentation to break down the compost without a major stink. The product that helps with this process is called Bokashi.

In either case, you’re going to have to make some effort. Basic kitchen composters need their contents added to your main compost pile regularly. Anerobic containers need to be closed up for about two weeks after being filled before you can move the compost out, and so you may need more than one container.

One fear many people have about composting indoors is that flies or other insects will be attracted. This should not be a problem with a properly cared for compost pail. Keep the lid sealed tight when you aren’t putting scraps into it. Wash it inside and out periodically. With the proper care you aren’t likely to develop any problems.

Composting is a simple way to improve your garden and decrease the waste you throw in the trash. It’s one thing you can do for the environment that takes a fairly basic change in your routine and a low cost to get started. You’re going to have to do something with those veggie scraps anyhow, even if it’s just throwing them in the trash. Makes more sense to throw them into a compost pail.