What we accept depends on whether you are a resident or business. We generally accept what can be composted in a backyard bin, as well as a few additional items. Check out our compost guide for more details.

Each bin is secured with a coded lock. After sign-up, you’ll receive the access code via email for your selected bin, along with the bin’s address and specific location details.

This is completely up to you! Many people use a small kitchen pail that fits on their countertop, one of our 4-gallon collection buckets, or any old 5-gallon bucket. You can also store your food scraps in tupperware and keep them in the freezer.

Moisture accelerates the decomposition process, creating a happy environment for mold and flies. Less moisture = cleaner bucket.

Use one or more of the following tips to reduce or avoid moisture:

• Freeze your food scraps
• Layer food scraps with dry items (like paper towels, paper napkins, paper bags, and cardboard)
• Keep the lid off your bucket (which allows moisture to evaporate. Replace the lid with a towel if you still want a cover).

You can also use a liner to create a barrier. Paper bags are preferred (they compost the best) but we also accept Biobag-brand liners.

Clean your bucket after drop-off. Wipe the inside down with a paper towel or dried leaves from your yard. If no cleaning supplies are used, toss that paper towel in the bucket to compost! Or, designate a compost bucket sponge and clean out your bucket in the sink with soap and water.

We offer sliding-scale payment options, between $5 and $20 per month, that allow households to pay what they can while participating in Cincinnati’s household composting efforts. We also realize that some households do not have the capacity to pay for service. If this applies to you, please reach out to us and we’ll send you an access code for free sign-up.