How to Start Composting
It’s never been easier to compost in LA. Here’s how to get started, no backyard pile required.
STEP 1: Collect your food scraps
The first step to composting is collecting food scraps in your home. There are many different food scrap containers to choose from based on your situation!
DIY Bin
All you need is a large tupperware container, salad bowl, or small bucket. Then, just toss scraps in there as you cook and after meals. Pro tips: Make sure you can cover your bin, and choose a container or bag that fits in your freezer to avoid smells and bugs.
Countertop Pail
LA city residents can request and pickup a free countertop pail from LASAN. This option is super easy to use and easy to take out to the curbside green bin.
Upgraded Kitchen Pail
For those who want a slight upgrade to a standard pail, there are more premium options that have features like replaceable charcoal filters to minimize odors. Here’s one of our favorites.
Electric Countertop Composter
These high-tech composters are great for small spaces and can turn compost into nutrient rich soil in as little as 4 hours. They are on the pricier side, though. The Lomi Classic is a popular choice.
STEP 2: Dump your food scraps.
You’ve collected your food scraps and your container is full. Now what?
Option 1: Dump it in the green bin.
If you’re an LA city resident, all you have to do is put your scraps in the green curbside bin! It’s that simple. LASAN picks up the green bins once a week.
Option 2: Drop off weekly at a local farmer’s market.
This is a great free option for those without access to a green bin. This ensures your food scraps turn into nutrient-rich soil that is used near your community.
Option 3: Use a pick-up service.
If it’s hard for you to get a drop-off site, there may be a private pickup service available where you live. They’re not free, but they’ll pick up your compost weekly.
Option 4: Compost in your yard.
If you’ve got the space, a backyard compost pile is the highest value option because it keeps nutrients local and saves on transportation and processing. Use your “black gold” in the garden or yard.