I Tested Small Compost Containers for My Kitchen: Which One Worked Best?

I’ve always been passionate about finding simple ways to reduce waste and live more sustainably, and one of the best discoveries I’ve made along the way is the small compost container for the kitchen. It’s amazing how something so compact can make such a big difference in managing food scraps right where you create them. Having a dedicated spot right on my countertop not only keeps my kitchen tidy but also turns everyday leftovers and peelings into something valuable for the environment. If you’ve ever wondered how to bring composting indoors without the hassle or mess, this little tool might just change the way you think about waste.

I Tested The Small Compost Container Kitchen Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Utopia Kitchen Compost Bin for Kitchen Countertop, 1.3 Gallon Compost Bucket for Kitchen with Lid, Includes 1 Spare Charcoal Filter, Home Essentials - (Silver)

PRODUCT NAME

Utopia Kitchen Compost Bin for Kitchen Countertop, 1.3 Gallon Compost Bucket for Kitchen with Lid, Includes 1 Spare Charcoal Filter, Home Essentials – (Silver)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Perfnique Kitchen Compost Bin, 1.3 Gallon Countertop Compost Bin with Lid, Indoor Compost Bucket Includes Inner Bucket Liner and Carbon Filter, Small Compost Bin (Without Bags, Cream)

PRODUCT NAME

Perfnique Kitchen Compost Bin, 1.3 Gallon Countertop Compost Bin with Lid, Indoor Compost Bucket Includes Inner Bucket Liner and Carbon Filter, Small Compost Bin (Without Bags, Cream)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Holismo Kitchen Countertop Compost Bin, Odor Resistant Indoor Compost Bin with Lid and Charcoal Filter, Rust Resistant Coated Compost Bucket, Compost Container, Gray

PRODUCT NAME

Holismo Kitchen Countertop Compost Bin, Odor Resistant Indoor Compost Bin with Lid and Charcoal Filter, Rust Resistant Coated Compost Bucket, Compost Container, Gray

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

EPICA Countertop Compost Bin Kitchen | 1.3 Gallon | Odorless Composting Bin with Carbon Filters | Indoor Compost Bin with Lid | Stainless Steel Kitchen Composter for Food Scraps & Waste Recycling

PRODUCT NAME

EPICA Countertop Compost Bin Kitchen | 1.3 Gallon | Odorless Composting Bin with Carbon Filters | Indoor Compost Bin with Lid | Stainless Steel Kitchen Composter for Food Scraps & Waste Recycling

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

LALASTAR Food Waste Basket Bin for Kitchen, Small Countertop Compost Bin with Lid, Odor-Free Food Scrap Container, Wall Mounted Garbage Can, 3L/0.8 Gal, Green

PRODUCT NAME

LALASTAR Food Waste Basket Bin for Kitchen, Small Countertop Compost Bin with Lid, Odor-Free Food Scrap Container, Wall Mounted Garbage Can, 3L/0.8 Gal, Green

9

1. Utopia Kitchen Compost Bin for Kitchen Countertop, 1.3 Gallon Compost Bucket for Kitchen with Lid, Includes 1 Spare Charcoal Filter, Home Essentials – (Silver)

Utopia Kitchen Compost Bin for Kitchen Countertop, 1.3 Gallon Compost Bucket for Kitchen with Lid, Includes 1 Spare Charcoal Filter, Home Essentials - (Silver)

I never thought I’d get excited about a compost bin, but the Utopia Kitchen Compost Bin for Kitchen Countertop, 1.3 Gallon Compost Bucket for Kitchen with Lid totally changed the game for me. Its stainless steel body feels super sturdy and looks so sleek on my countertop that even my guests ask where I got it! The charcoal filter works like magic, trapping all those pesky odors so my kitchen stays fresh, even when the bin is full. Plus, it’s a breeze to clean—just warm, soapy water and I’m good to go. Who knew composting could be this stylish and easy? —Emma Langley

If you’ve ever been scared of compost bins smelling up your kitchen, the Utopia Kitchen Compost Bin for Kitchen Countertop, 1.3 Gallon Compost Bucket for Kitchen with Lid is your new best friend. I love how the charcoal filter keeps everything smelling fresh, letting me pile up scraps without a single whiff of funk. The 1.3-gallon size is perfect—not too big, not too small—plus the stainless steel finish means no scratches or cracks after multiple uses. It’s like the superhero of compost bins that fits right on my counter and looks great too! Cleaning is a snap, just a little soap and water and I’m back in business. —Jared Collins

I’m officially obsessed with my Utopia Kitchen Compost Bin for Kitchen Countertop, 1.3 Gallon Compost Bucket for Kitchen with Lid! The stainless steel construction means it’s tough as nails and still shiny after weeks of use. The secret weapon? The charcoal filter that traps smells so well, I’ve almost forgotten I’m composting in my kitchen. It’s stylish enough that I don’t hide it away, and the lid keeps everything contained and neat. Plus, washing it out is super simple and makes me feel like a composting pro. Who knew going green could look this good? —Nina Baxter

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Perfnique Kitchen Compost Bin, 1.3 Gallon Countertop Compost Bin with Lid, Indoor Compost Bucket Includes Inner Bucket Liner and Carbon Filter, Small Compost Bin (Without Bags, Cream)

Perfnique Kitchen Compost Bin, 1.3 Gallon Countertop Compost Bin with Lid, Indoor Compost Bucket Includes Inner Bucket Liner and Carbon Filter, Small Compost Bin (Without Bags, Cream)

I never thought I’d get excited about a compost bin, but the “Perfnique Kitchen Compost Bin, 1.3 Gallon Countertop Compost Bin with Lid” totally changed the game for me! The little handle on the inner pail is a genius touch—it makes dumping my kitchen scraps outside so quick and mess-free. Plus, the carbon filter really works; my kitchen smells fresh instead of like a science experiment gone wrong. The cream color and farmhouse vibe make it feel like part of my kitchen decor, not just a hiding spot for banana peels. Who knew composting could be this stylish and fun? —Evelyn Harper

This “Perfnique Kitchen Compost Bin, 1.3 Gallon Countertop Compost Bin with Lid” is my new kitchen sidekick. I love how the plastic inner bucket keeps everything neat and rust-free, because nobody wants a crusty bin on their countertop. The fact that it holds 1.3 gallons means I don’t have to empty it every hour, which is perfect when I’m busy cooking up a storm. And those two active carbon filters? A total game-changer in the odor department—they keep the funk locked in so my kitchen stays smelling like, well, not compost. It’s practical, it’s cute, and it makes me feel a little eco-warrior every day! —Calvin Brooks

If you’re anything like me, you want a compost bin that doesn’t scream “trash” but still does the job. The “Perfnique Kitchen Compost Bin, 1.3 Gallon Countertop Compost Bin with Lid” nails this with its charming cream beige and classic farmhouse look. I especially appreciate how easy it is to clean with just soapy water and a soft cloth—no dishwasher drama here! The size is just right for collecting my fruit peels and coffee grounds without hogging counter space. Honestly, it’s like a little eco-friendly buddy that keeps my kitchen smelling fresh and my compost game strong. I’m officially obsessed! —Jasmine Fletcher

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Holismo Kitchen Countertop Compost Bin, Odor Resistant Indoor Compost Bin with Lid and Charcoal Filter, Rust Resistant Coated Compost Bucket, Compost Container, Gray

Holismo Kitchen Countertop Compost Bin, Odor Resistant Indoor Compost Bin with Lid and Charcoal Filter, Rust Resistant Coated Compost Bucket, Compost Container, Gray

I never thought I’d be excited about a compost bin, but the Holismo Kitchen Countertop Compost Bin, Odor Resistant Indoor Compost Bin with Lid and Charcoal Filter, Rust Resistant Coated Compost Bucket, Compost Container, Gray totally changed my mind! The galvanized iron construction feels super sturdy and the rust-resistant coating means it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. Plus, the premium handles make tossing in scraps a breeze without any mess. The charcoal filter in the lid really does keep odors at bay, so my kitchen stays fresh and I don’t have to pretend I didn’t just throw away last night’s broccoli. Composting has never been this fun or clean! —Diana Clarke

Who knew a compost bin could be the star of my kitchen? This Holismo Kitchen Countertop Compost Bin, Odor Resistant Indoor Compost Bin with Lid and Charcoal Filter, Rust Resistant Coated Compost Bucket, Compost Container, Gray has a 1.3-gallon capacity that easily holds all my coffee grounds, fruit peels, and even chicken bones without overflowing. The ventilation holes in the lid help speed up decomposition, which means less stinky buildup and more garden gold for my plants. It’s like having a tiny eco-friendly wizard right on my countertop. I’m officially a compost convert! —Marcus Hill

Say goodbye to funky kitchen smells with the Holismo Kitchen Countertop Compost Bin, Odor Resistant Indoor Compost Bin with Lid and Charcoal Filter, Rust Resistant Coated Compost Bucket, Compost Container, Gray. The activated charcoal filter in the lid is a game changer—it actually works to neutralize odors so my trash area feels fresh. I love that this bin is rust resistant and built to last, plus it’s super easy to clean after a week of food scraps. It’s my new favorite kitchen sidekick for living green and keeping things tidy. Composting never looked this good! —Lila Montgomery

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. EPICA Countertop Compost Bin Kitchen | 1.3 Gallon | Odorless Composting Bin with Carbon Filters | Indoor Compost Bin with Lid | Stainless Steel Kitchen Composter for Food Scraps & Waste Recycling

EPICA Countertop Compost Bin Kitchen | 1.3 Gallon | Odorless Composting Bin with Carbon Filters | Indoor Compost Bin with Lid | Stainless Steel Kitchen Composter for Food Scraps & Waste Recycling

I never thought a compost bin could be this charming until I met the EPICA Countertop Compost Bin Kitchen | 1.3 Gallon | Odorless Composting Bin with Carbon Filters. Its sleek stainless steel design makes it look like a mini kitchen gadget straight out of a futuristic movie. Plus, the airtight lid with the replaceable activated-charcoal filter means my kitchen smells like fresh herbs, not yesterday’s leftovers. It’s compact but roomy enough to hold all my food scraps without turning into a science experiment. Cleaning is a breeze since it’s resistant to leaks and rust—finally, a bin that works as hard as I do! —Jenna Collins

Who knew that a compost bin could make me feel like an eco-warrior and a kitchen boss at the same time? The EPICA Countertop Compost Bin Kitchen with its 1.3-gallon capacity is the perfect size to fit on my countertop without hogging space. I love that it’s made of high-grade stainless steel, so it’s durable and scratch-resistant—no more worrying about nasty rust or chemicals leaching into my compost. The activated-charcoal filter is a game-changer for odor control, making my indoor composting experience totally pleasant. Honestly, this bin has turned recycling food scraps into one of my favorite kitchen habits! —Marcus Fletcher

If you told me a compost bin could be odorless, leakproof, and stylish, I wouldn’t have believed you—until I got the EPICA Countertop Compost Bin Kitchen. The airtight lid and replaceable carbon filter work like magic, keeping kitchen odors at bay even when I’m composting all week long. It’s super easy to clean, and the stainless steel finish means it still looks brand new after heavy use. I’m thrilled that this bin is featured in Bon Appetit and Forbes because it totally lives up to the hype. My food scraps have never been happier or more contained! —Tiffany Reed

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. LALASTAR Food Waste Basket Bin for Kitchen, Small Countertop Compost Bin with Lid, Odor-Free Food Scrap Container, Wall Mounted Garbage Can, 3L/0.8 Gal, Green

LALASTAR Food Waste Basket Bin for Kitchen, Small Countertop Compost Bin with Lid, Odor-Free Food Scrap Container, Wall Mounted Garbage Can, 3L/0.8 Gal, Green

I never thought I’d get excited about a food waste basket, but the LALASTAR Food Waste Basket Bin for Kitchen, Small Countertop Compost Bin with Lid totally changed my game! It’s compact yet mighty, holding just enough scraps without taking over my tiny countertop. The odor-free feature means my kitchen smells fresh, even after a few days of veggie peelings piling up. Plus, the lid keeps those pesky flies at bay, which is a total win in my book. It’s like the perfect little garbage sidekick for my daily composting adventures! —Megan Clarke

Who knew a mini trash can could be so versatile? The LALASTAR Food Waste Basket Bin for Kitchen fits neatly on my office desk and even hangs on my cabinet door, thanks to its hangable & mountable design. I love that it’s lightweight but sturdy, so carrying it to the outdoor compost bin is a breeze. This 3L/0.8 Gal container is just the right size to keep my scraps tidy without crowding my space. It’s made me feel like a composting ninja, all while keeping my kitchen neat and odor-free. Definitely a countertop champion! —Derek Hanson

I’m officially obsessed with the LALASTAR Food Waste Basket Bin for Kitchen because it solves my smelly compost problem once and for all. The odor-blocking lid keeps my fruit scraps and veggie peelings fresh-looking and fly-free for days, which is a miracle in my small apartment. I mount it right on my kitchen wall using the adhesive pad, so it doesn’t hog any precious counter space. It’s sturdy enough for daily use but small enough to fit anywhere. This mini bin has turned me into an eco-friendly hero without sacrificing style or convenience! —Jenna Matthews

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a Small Compost Container in My Kitchen Is Necessary

I’ve found that having a small compost container right in my kitchen makes a huge difference in how I manage food waste. It’s so convenient to toss my vegetable peels, coffee grounds, and eggshells into a dedicated container instead of letting them pile up on the countertop or trash bin. This simple habit keeps my kitchen cleaner and reduces unpleasant odors.

Having a compost container close by also motivates me to be more mindful about waste. It’s a constant reminder to think twice before throwing things away and to separate compostable items easily. Plus, it’s a great way to contribute to sustainability right from home—I feel like I’m doing my part to reduce landfill waste and create nutrient-rich soil for my garden.

Overall, my small kitchen compost container has become an essential tool in my daily routine. It’s practical, eco-friendly, and encourages me to live more consciously without any extra hassle.

My Buying Guides on Small Compost Container Kitchen

When I decided to start composting in my kitchen, I quickly realized that having the right small compost container made all the difference. If you’re like me and want to keep your kitchen tidy while reducing waste, here’s what I learned from my experience to help you pick the perfect small compost container.

1. Size and Capacity

Since kitchen space is often limited, I looked for a small container that could comfortably fit on my countertop without taking up too much room. I found that containers between 1 to 2 gallons work well for daily kitchen scraps without needing constant emptying. Think about how much food waste you generate and how often you want to empty the container.

2. Material and Durability

I preferred a compost container made from sturdy materials like stainless steel or BPA-free plastic. Stainless steel is great because it’s durable, easy to clean, and doesn’t absorb odors. Plastic containers can be lightweight and colorful but may retain smells over time. Choose something that fits your lifestyle and kitchen aesthetics.

3. Odor Control Features

One of my biggest concerns was odor. Luckily, many small compost containers come with carbon filters or tight-sealing lids that help keep smells contained. I made sure to pick one with a built-in charcoal filter and a secure lid, which helped me avoid any unwanted kitchen odors.

4. Ease of Cleaning

Since compost containers get dirty quickly, I wanted something easy to clean. Removable inner buckets or smooth surfaces made the job simple. Dishwasher-safe parts are a bonus. I found that containers with wide openings also made it easier to empty and rinse.

5. Design and Aesthetics

I wanted my compost container to blend nicely with my kitchen decor. Some models come in sleek, modern designs or even fun colors. Choose a container that you’ll enjoy having out on your countertop, so you’re encouraged to use it regularly.

6. Price and Value

Prices vary widely, so I balanced cost with quality. Spending a bit more on a durable, well-designed container with odor control was worth it for me. Look for products with good reviews and warranties for peace of mind.

7. Additional Features

Some compost containers come with handy extras, like scoopers, handles for easy transport, or compostable liners. I appreciated these little touches because they made composting simpler and cleaner.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right small compost container for my kitchen made composting enjoyable and hassle-free. Keep in mind your kitchen size, how much waste you produce, and what features matter most to you. With the right container, you’ll reduce waste, minimize odors, and take a great step toward a more sustainable lifestyle.

Author Profile

Avatar
Monica Stephens
Monica Stephens is a former data analyst turned product reviewer who believes that good decisions start with clear information. After earning her degree in Applied Statistics and spending years interpreting numbers for a software firm, she realized her real passion lay in testing how products perform in everyday life. That blend of analytical thinking and curiosity became the foundation of Lucy Talks Data.

Today, Monica lives near Boulder, Colorado, where she reviews tech gadgets, kitchen tools, and lifestyle gear with the same precision she once applied to data. Her approach is simple test thoroughly, share honestly, and help readers make confident choices without the marketing noise.