10 Best Compost Tumblers Compared & Reviewed

 

Best Compost Tumbler Review – Top Rated Models with Buying Guide

 

If you’re looking for the best compost tumbler to turn your waste into fertilizer, you can easily feel overwhelmed by all the options on the market, from cheap compost tumblers to pricier ones. If you don’t have enough time to compare the best compost tumblers, we are here to help. After a thorough examination of what the top-rated products in this range have to offer, we have found that the FCMP Outdoor IM4000 Tumbling Composter is the one you should consider. This affordable compost tumbler has a medium capacity that is perfect for regular households. You can enjoy a continuous composting flow by adding fresh scraps to this dual compost tumbler. Plus, it’s made of non-toxic, sun-resistant polypropylene and corrosion-resistant steel, which make it more durable. In the unfortunate event that this product is unavailable, you may want to consider the Envirocycle Composting Tumbler Bin and Compost Tea Maker.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

10 Best Compost Tumblers (Updated Reviews) in 2024

 

 

Reading good compost tumbler reviews can help you learn more about this type of product; however, it can also be time-consuming. That is why we have compared the top products in this line so that you don’t need to go through every compost tumbler review in order to make a decision.

 

 

1. FCMP Outdoor IM4000 Tumbling Composter

 

Tumbling composters are great because you don’t need to mix the compost by hand, and they also provide better aeration. This product is easy to use and affordable, which makes it a good option for those who are new to composting. The 37-gallon capacity is enough for a regular household.

Plus, it’s built with long-lasting materials, including recycled polypropylene and corrosion-resistant steel. It’s also UV inhibited so that you don’t need to worry about leaving it under direct sunlight. Due to the innovative dual-chamber design, you can enjoy an uninterrupted composting flow by using one side for cooking and the other side for adding scraps.

All you have to do is turn it five to six times every couple of days, and your compost will be ready in two weeks. The adjustable air vents allow air circulation, and the deep fins break up any bigger clumps.

 

Pros

With a medium 37-gallon capacity and a simple design, this tumbling composter is adequate for beginners and regular households.

You can continuously add new scraps and have a regular flow of composting because it has two separate chambers so that it can work without interruptions.

It takes only two weeks to turn scraps into compost, if you turn it five times every couple of days, and if the weather is warm enough.

It’s made of BPA-free recycled polypropylene that is resistant to sunlight, and the steel frame is corrosion-resistant, for a long-lasting construction and UV protection.

For a good quality compost, this tumbling composter has adjustable air vents and deep fins that allow plenty of oxygen into the mix.

 

Cons

This tumbling composter requires assembly, and it is not easy to put together, especially for those who are not experienced in assembling similar items.

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2. Envirocycle Composting Tumbler Bin and Compost Tea Maker

 

A lot of composters take too much space and are difficult to use. This 35-gallon tumbling composter has a compact design that takes little space, it’s decorative and can be easily placed in the garden, on the patio or on the balcony. There is no assembly required, so you can start using it right away. It’s also durable, sun-resistant, and food safe.

Another innovative feature is the dual composting system. The tumbler drum produces solid compost, while the tea maker base allows you to collect the remaining liquid and use it as a liquid fertilizer. The compost is done in eight weeks, depending on the temperature.

It’s best to turn it three times every three days to ensure the proper airflow that will speed up the process. In order to empty the barrel, remove the door and roll the barrel to where you want to apply the compost.

 

Pros

Thanks to its compact design and 35-gallon capacity, this tumbling composter fits perfectly in your garden or even on the balcony, and it also looks decorative.

This composter doesn’t require any assembly, which makes it great for beginners, and it allows you to start using it right away.

The innovative dual composting system combines a tumbler drum that turns scraps into solid compost and a tea maker base where you can collect all the resulting liquid fertilizer.

It’s made in the United States, from durable materials that are BPA-free, food-safe, and sun-resistant.

If the weather is warm enough, you can obtain a batch of compost in only six to eight weeks, after turning it three times every three days.

 

Cons

The liquid in the tea maker base can be difficult to pour out or too much, but you can simply use the four draining plugs to drain it instead.

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3. EJWOX Large Composting Tumbler

 

If you have large quantities of compost materials but don’t want the hassle of having two composters, this heavy-duty, 43-gallon composting tumbler is a great option for outdoors. It also has a dual-chamber system so that you can continuously add scraps to one of them, while the other one is cooking.

This durable tumbler is made of UV-inhibited recycled polypropylene, with a sturdy steel frame that is also rust-free. It’s tall enough to place a cart under it, and the barrel is easy to turn. The aerated internal bar improves air circulation, and the panels have double walls so that they can retain heat better and speed up the composting process.

You need to turn the composting tumbler five to six times every two or three days for the best results, but the composting time will also depend on the temperature and the quality of the waste.

 

Pros

If you are looking for a tumbler that can hold a lot of waste without taking too much space, this 43-gallon outdoor composter is heavy-duty and also has a compact design.

The dual-chamber system allows you to enjoy a continuous composting flow by regularly adding fresh scraps.

It has a sturdy construction and a convenient height so that you can place a cart under it, and it’s made of sun-resistant recycled polypropylene with a rust-free steel frame.

Good airflow is essential for good compost, and the aerated internal bar allows proper circulation, while the panels are designed to retain heat.

The compact barrel is easy to turn every two to three days, and it doesn’t take too much effort to empty out the finished compost.

 

Cons

When both chambers are almost full, it can be more difficult to turn the barrel, and it takes longer.

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4. Miracle-Gro Small 18.5 Gallon Composter

 

Whether you live in an apartment or don’t have too much room for a composter, this single chamber composter is compact enough to fit into tight places, and it’s also not noisy. Although it has an 18.5-gallon capacity, it’s a heavy-duty composter with a large feeding mouth.

The hexagon design with mixing bars speeds up the composting process, without you having to dig into it. Additionally, the aeration system allows more oxygen into the mix. It’s not only compact but also durable, thanks to the premium PP plastic bin and rustproof stainless steel frame.

Plus, it has a stable construction, and the side-locking mechanism allows you to easily load and unload the bin. It takes very little time to turn, and you can obtain great compost in eight weeks at the latest, depending on the weather. You also get a pair of water-resistant gardening gloves, with a no-slip surface.

 

Pros

This slim composter with a compact design is perfect for apartments or other tight spaces, it’s silent, and the 18.5-gallon capacity is sufficient for a one or two-person household.

It has a stable and durable construction, with a hexagon-shaped bin that is made of BPA-free, UV inhibited premium plastic and a rustproof stainless steel frame.

It only takes a couple of minutes to turn it every couple of days, and the side-locking mechanism makes the loading and unloading process even easier.

There’s no need to dig into the mix and turn it because the mixing bars do all the work, while the aeration system ensures the proper airflow.

A pair of no-slip gardening gloves that are also water-resistant is included.

 

Cons

Keep in mind that this single chamber tumbling composter is specifically designed for smaller households, and it’s not adequate for large quantities of waste, such as lawn waste.

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5. Miracle-Gro Large Dual Chamber Compost Tumbler

 

If you are looking for a dual-chamber composter that can ensure a continuous flow of composting but don’t want to overspend on a composter that would also take a lot of space, the Miracle-Gro large tumbler is a good option. It has two chambers of 27.7 gallons each so that you can continuously feed one with scraps, while the other one is curing.

A useful product for both beginners and pro gardeners, this large tumbler has a hexagon design and mixing bars that help the compost cure faster, with less effort. It also features sliding doors and a side-locking system for easy use and added safety.

The two bins are made of BPA-free premium plastic, while the frame is made of rustproof stainless steel for a durable product. It’s safe to leave it in direct sunlight, and thanks to its aeration system, the compost is cured faster.

 

Pros

This dual-chamber composter has two 27.7-gallon tumblers that allow you to compost a larger quantity in a continuous flow by introducing fresh scraps while the compost is being cured.

It effectively turns leftovers and clippings into compost, thanks to the hexagon design, mixing bars that make the rotation more efficient, and the aeration system that allows air circulation.

It’s made of BPA-free plastic that is safe to leave under direct sunlight, with a stainless steel frame that is also resistant to rust.

The side-locking system and sliding doors provide extra safety and make this tumbler easier to use.

 

Cons

Although the product comes with clear instructions, keep in mind that the assembly requires strength and attention, especially when it comes to beginners.

If you have large amounts of clippings and leftovers, this tumbling composter may not be the best choice because it is not sturdy enough to hold a lot of waste.

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6. SQUEEZE Master Large Compost Tumbler Bin

 

Ideal for gardens, but adequate for any outdoor environment, this large tumbler has two chambers with a total capacity of 43 gallons. It has a practical design, and it’s easy to use. Although large, the tumbler is easy to rotate, and the sliding doors allow you to quickly open it or close it.

You don’t need to dig or mix anything by hand, simply add scraps and rotate the tumbler gently six times every few days. You will obtain good quality compost for your garden every season, in just a few weeks. This composter improves the air circulation through the air holes, but it also keeps everything locked in, for better safety.

The compost bin is made of light plastic so that it is not too heavy, it’s non-toxic and Ultraviolet proof, and the sturdy frame is made of corrosion-resistant steel. You can paint it and make it more decorative.

 

Pros

This tumbler with dual compartments and a total capacity of 43 gallons is large enough to handle a bigger waste volume and is ideal for feeding your garden.

Thanks to its design and reduced weight, it is easy to rotate, and the sliding doors make it easy to open and close.

It can be used all throughout the year because it is heat and cold-resistant, and you only need to rotate it slightly a few times every couple of days.

The components are made of good quality materials, including non-toxic, Ultraviolet-proof plastic and corrosion-resistant steel, for improved durability.

You can turn this composter into a decorative piece for your garden by painting it and personalizing it.

 

Cons

Although the openings of this composting tumbler are quite large, it is still messy to take the compost out, so it’s best to place a tarp under it when collecting the compost.

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7. Good Ideas CWET-BLK Compost Wizard EnviroTumbler

 

The Compost Wizard is a great option for those who want an efficient composter that is also compact, doesn’t take a lot of space and doesn’t cost too much. With a 6.5 ft height and compact design, this tumbler fits in the garden or on the patio, and it doesn’t require any assembly, which means you can start using it right away.

The innovative composting system of this product combines a tumbling composter and a tea-making base so that you can also collect the composting liquid. Compost tea is a rich fertilizer that is perfect for your garden. Due to the ingenious design, the tea is automatically drained into the base during the composting process.

The tumbling drum is made of recycled plastic that also absorbs the heat in order to speed up the composting process. When the compost is done, you can roll the drum and dispense it.

 

Pros

The Compost Wizard is 6.5 ft tall, it has a 2-piece compact design that easily fits in outdoor locations, and it’s hassle-free because there is no assembly required.

You will obtain not only high-quality compost, but also compost tea, that is an excellent fertilizer as well, and that is automatically drained into the base during the composting process.

The components are made of non-toxic, lightweight, and Ultraviolet-resistant plastic that also absorbs the heat and creates the proper temperature for composting.

When the compost is cured and the liquid is drained, you can simply roll the drum to where you want to use the compost and empty it.

 

Cons

The compost tea can be difficult to collect, but you can place the composter on building blocks so that you can drain the excess liquid into a container.

The tumbler doesn’t have side handles; it can only be rolled.

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8. FCMP Outdoor Half Size 19 Gallon Plastic Rolling Composter

 

Some composters can be too heavy, difficult to put together, and also pricey. If you have a small backyard or patio, or if you are a beginner, you need an affordable composter that doesn’t take a lot of space, and that is easy to use. This half-size tumbler is slim enough to fit in tight spaces, it’s easy to put together, and costs less than similar models.

Despite its small size, it can hold up to 19 gallons of waste. It features aeration holes and deep fins that allow more oxygen inside and break up the clumps faster. All you need to do is open the sliding door, add scraps, and then turn the composter five times every few days.

This rotating composter is not only small and light, but it also has two ergonomic handles that make it easier to roll. Plus, it’s made of recycled, UV-inhibited plastic.

 

Pros

Ideal for small backyards and 2-people households, this half-size composter is slim and compact, it fits in small places, and it doesn’t require any assembly.

It has a surprising 19-gallon capacity, and it turns scraps into compost in a short time, thanks to the deep fins that break up the clumps and aeration holes that improve air circulation.

This is a great option for those who want something easy to use because it’s lightweight, it has a convenient sliding door and two ergonomic handles.

Additionally, this tumbler is made of 100% recycled plastic that is not only UV-inhibited and non-toxic but also heats up fast.

 

Cons

Since this composter doesn’t have a liquid-collecting component, you need to place a tray under it for the excess liquid, otherwise, it can stain your patio and attract flies.

Depending on where you place it, some critters can chew through the plastic.

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9. Goplus Compost Tumbler Outdoor Garden Waste Bin

 

Large outdoor compost tumblers are usually harder to maneuver, which is why this 45-gallon composter is equipped with two sturdy wheels that allow you to easily move it to where you want to dispense the compost. Thanks to the increased capacity of this tumbler, you can turn all your garden waste as well as kitchen waste into rich compost, no matter the season.

This compost tumbler features air vents that increase air circulation for better oxygenation in order to speed up decomposition. Additionally, the convenient twist-lock lid makes sure nothing falls out when you are rotating the tumbler, and it also keeps any pests away. It is also easy to rotate even when it’s full, thanks to the rotatable barrel.

You can safely use this tumbling composter for many years to come because it’s made of non-toxic, durable plastic, and it has a sturdy iron frame for better stability.

 

Pros

This tumbling composter has a 45-gallon capacity that allows you to introduce more garden waste and kitchen scraps and obtain a larger quantity of high-quality compost.

Thanks to the two sturdy wheels, you can easily move it anywhere you want, instead of trying to roll the heavy barrel.

Oxygen is essential for fast and effective composting, and the air vents on this composter are specifically designed to increase circulation.

Another functional feature of this product is the twist-lock lid that prevents the content from falling out during the rotation process and also keeps pests away.

The tumbling barrel is made of non-toxic, lightweight plastic, and the iron frame is also sturdy enough to last for many years.

 

Cons

The assembly process is not straightforward, and if you are someone who doesn’t have a lot of experience with assembling things, it might require extra patience and time to put it together.

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10. FCMP Outdoor 37-Gallon Dual Chamber Compost Tumbler

 

If you are looking for an outdoor compost tumbler that’s easy to use and effective, a compact and quick-curing tumbler is the answer. The 37-gallon capacity is adequate for regular households, and you only need to turn it five to six times every two or three days in order to get the best composting results.

The dual-chamber design allows you to continuously add fresh kitchen and yard waste so that it can cure quickly. If you add the right ingredients and if there is enough sun, you can enjoy your first compost batch in two weeks. The air vents that improve circulation also speed up the composting process.

This compost tumbler is made of recycled polypropylene and corrosion-resistant steel for added durability and safety. Thanks to the large openings and removable door, it’s easier to add material or to collect the compost. Also, the wheels give it extra mobility.

 

Pros

The dual-chamber system speeds up the curing process and ensures a composting flow, which allows you to get more compost on a regular basis.

This medium-sized compost tumbler has a 37-gallon capacity, which is big enough for regular households and also easier to manage than larger quantities.

It is easy to add fresh scraps and to remove the compost when it’s done, due to the removable door and large openings, and the wheels also make this tumbler easier to move around.

The tumbler bin is made of recycled polypropylene, and the frame is made of corrosion-resistant steel.

 

Cons

Although this compost tumbler effectively contains the waste that is introduced, there can be some occasional leakage that could stain the deck, which is why it’s preferable to place it somewhere on the grass.

Keep in mind that this is not a heavy-duty compost tumbler, and therefore it’s not very sturdy.

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Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

Compost tumblers save you the trouble of trying to break down various scraps and clippings into compost by easily mixing them together and turning them into high-quality fertilizer. Whether you are looking for a cheap compost tumbler or a more expensive one, there are certain aspects you should consider before making a purchase.

Our guide will help you learn more about the particularities of compost tumblers and what are some of the most important things to keep in mind when looking for this type of product.

Size and capacity

A compost bin tumbler looks similar to a tombola spinner because everything that you put inside it is mixed and turned into compost, without you having to mix it manually or use a shovel. Compost tumblers have various sizes and capacities, and choosing the right one for your needs will not only make it easier to use but also more effective.

A small compost tumbler would be more convenient for beginners and one or two people households because they produce less waste that can be easily turned into compost by a 35-gallon tumbler. Plus, if you intend to place it on your balcony or simply don’t have too much yard space, a compact compost tumbler can save you a lot of headaches.

On the other hand, those who want to dispose of large quantities of scraps and clippings need a large compost tumbler that can hold at least 40 gallons of waste. Depending on how much compost you want to make, you can also go for a dual chamber compost tumbler that allows you to constantly add new scraps so that the composting process is uninterrupted.

 

Design and features

Many compost tumblers mix the compost thanks to a central axis that spins, which is why you need to roll them by hand, while others have a handle that you can spin, and this is how the compost barrel tumbler is spun. A tumbler needs to be easy to turn, otherwise, you won’t be able to repeat this process every couple of days, and you won’t get compost.

A two compost bins tumbler can be a good choice if you want to enjoy a continuous composting flow. If you want to keep it simple and have smaller quantities of waste, simple and affordable compost tumblers are enough. You can also choose a tumbler that can make not only regular compost but also liquid fertilizer, thanks to a tea maker base where all the liquid is collected.

Air vents are another important feature because good airflow is essential for great compost. Plus, a user-friendly design means that it’s easy to open and close the tumbler bin.

Materials and durability

Keep in mind that large compost tumblers, like the Miracle Gro compost tumbler, also need to have a sturdy structure in order to be stable and long-lasting. Plus, they need to be made of high-quality materials.

A good tumbler compost bin is made of non-toxic, BPA-free plastic that is also resistant to UV radiation. The frame is also important for durability, and stainless steel that is corrosion-resistant would be the best choice. It’s preferable to keep your tumbler outside because natural heat is a very important factor in composting. Remember that most compost tumblers require assembly.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

 

Q: How to use a compost tumbler?

Those who are new to composting are probably wondering “what is a compost tumbler anyway?” and the simple answer is that it’s a barrel that can be rotated or turned, that can be filled with scraps which are then mixed inside of it until they turn to compost.

For those who are used to composing on their own, using a compost tumbler will make things much easier. If you want to know how to compost in a tumbler, there are a few easy steps.

First, you need to fill your tumbler with kitchen scraps and yard waste, making sure that you are adding enough green and brown material. In order to speed up the decomposition, you need to turn the tumbler a few times every couple of days. This will make sure everything is mixed well. If there is also enough heat, you will get fresh compost in a few weeks.

Q: How do you use a dual compost tumbler?

If you are wondering how to make compost in a tumbler with two chambers, know that it’s not a complicated process. In order to have a continuous composting flow, you need to add fresh scraps into one of the chambers on a regular basis, while the other one is cooking. This way, when the first batch of fresh compost is done, the other one is already cooking.

The main advantage is that you don’t have to throw away any waste because you can continuously add it to the tumbler. The downside is that, when both bins are almost full, it can be harder to rotate the tumbler, and the composting process is slowed down. It can also be more difficult to empty out the barrel.

Also, keep in mind that you need to let the first batch cook completely before you start adding new scraps and creating a composting flow.

 

Q: How to start a compost tumbler?

In order to start compost tumbler, first make sure that it is placed in an adequate location, with minimal moisture and enough air. Another important aspect is what to put in a compost tumbler because this will determine the quality of the end result. You need to add green material, such as kitchen scraps and grass clippings, as well as brown material like dried leaves or paper.

Try to collect enough waste to fill your compost tumbler. This helps everything to decompose evenly for faster results and rich compost. If you want the composting process to start faster, add an accelerator, which will introduce bacteria that kickstarts the decomposition. Next, all you have to do is follow the instructions and turn the tumbler a few times every couple of days.

Adding enough green and brown material is the first step, but air circulation and heat control are also important.