7 Surprising Kitchen Items You Can Compost (And 3 You Can't)
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At Greenleaf Kitchens, we believe a sustainable home starts in the heart of the home—your kitchen. Composting is one of the most powerful ways to reduce landfill waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden. You already know about fruit peels and vegetable scraps, but what about those other odd bits that end up in the trash?
We’ve done the deep dive so you don’t have to. Here are 7 surprising kitchen items you can compost and 3 you should always keep out of your bin.
First, Why Trust Greenleaf Kitchens on This?
This guide is based on the latest research from institutions like the US Composting Council and the EPA. We don't just sell products; we provide the expert knowledge you need to use them effectively.
We want to be transparent about our sourcing and recommendations. We will always clearly state what can and cannot be composted to ensure your compost pile is safe and effective.
7 Surprising Things You Can Compost
1. Nut Shells (except Walnut)
Why: Pistachio, peanut, almond, and pecan shells are carbon-rich ("brown") materials that add necessary bulk and aeration to your compost pile.
Pro Tip: Break them into smaller pieces before adding them. Their hard exterior takes much longer to break down than other materials. Avoid walnut shells, which contain juglone, a compound that can be toxic to some plants.
2. Paper Tea Bags & Loose Leaf Tea
Why: Tea leaves are a fantastic nitrogen-rich ("green") material. Many paper-based tea bags can be composted whole.
Pro Tip: Check the bag first! Some tea bags contain plastic polypropylene mesh (used to seal the bag) which won't break down. If it feels like plastic, rip it open and compost only the leaves. When in doubt, opt for loose-leaf tea brewed in a stainless steel strainer for zero waste.
3. Wine Corks
Why: Natural cork is a tree product, making it a wonderful carbon-rich addition.
Pro Tip: Ensure they are natural cork, not the plastic composite kind. A quick test: natural cork will be slightly imperfect and crumble, while plastic cork will look and feel uniform. Chop or shred them to speed up decomposition.
4. Paper Towel and Toilet Paper Rolls
Why: These cardboard tubes are pure carbon, perfect for balancing out your food scraps.
Pro Tip: Tear or cut them into small pieces to help them integrate and break down faster in the pile.
5. Cotton Swabs with Paper Sticks
Why: The cotton is a natural fiber (carbon), and the paper stick is compostable.
Pro Tip: This applies only to swabs with paper sticks. Never compost plastic-stemmed cotton swabs. For a truly sustainable alternative, consider reusable options like silicon ear swabs.
6. Old Herbs and Spices
Why: That jar of paprika from 2018 that lost its punch? Dried herbs and spices are organic matter and will decompose beautifully.
Pro Tip: They are considered a "green" material due to their nitrogen content. Sprinkle them into your bin to add a kick of nutrients.
7. Aquafaba (and other spoiled plant-based liquids)
Why: The viscous water from a can of chickpeas (aquafaba) and other spoiled nut milks or 100% fruit juices are compostable liquids.
Pro Tip: Use these to add moisture to a dry compost pile. Add them gradually and stir them in to avoid creating a soggy, anaerobic mess.
And 3 Kitchen Items You Absolutely CAN'T Compost
1. "Compostable" Plastics & Bioplastics
Why: This is the biggest surprise for many. While items labeled "compostable" or "PLA" are technically made from plants, they require the high heat of an industrial composting facility to break down. In a home compost bin, they will sit there for years, just like regular plastic.
What to do instead: Opt for truly compostable materials like wood, bamboo, or paper. Our range of bamboos kitchen tools is a perfect plastic-free alternative.
2. Cooking Oil and Grease
Why: Adding large amounts of oil or grease can coat materials, creating a waterproof barrier that disrupts moisture and air flow. This can make your pile anaerobic, slowing decomposition and creating unpleasant odors. It can also attract pests.
What to do instead: Small amounts soaked into paper towels or pizza boxes are usually fine. For larger quantities, let it cool and solidify, then dispose of it in the trash.
3. Dairy, Meat, and Bones
Why: While these items are technically organic, they are not recommended for beginner or open home compost systems. They decompose slowly, create strong odors, and are major magnets for rodents and other pests.
What to do instead: If you are an experienced composter with a fully enclosed, hot compost system, you can attempt these. For everyone else, it's best to avoid them. Some municipalities offer curbside compost collection that accepts these items—check your local rules.
Your Sustainable Kitchen Journey Starts Here
Composting is a rewarding practice that turns waste into wealth for your garden. By thinking beyond the basics, you can significantly reduce your household's environmental footprint.
At Greenleaf Kitchens, we're here to support you with expert-vetted information and the high-quality, eco-friendly products you need to make sustainable living simple and stylish.
Ready to make the switch?
Explore our collection of compost bins for your kitchen and our full range of plastic-free kitchenware designed to help you waste less and live more.
What's the most surprising thing you've learned to compost? Share your tips with our community in the comments below!