I like to pick things out of trash cans and reuse castaway items. Here, I repurpose the trash can itself to facilitate recycling organic waste into beneficial compost.
Commercial composting canisters can be costly, but they’re simply a place to allow natural microbial processes to convert waste matter into a dark, fresh-smelling soil. Commercial versions allow air and some water to get in, and sometimes a way to mix.
Most home trash cans fail when part of the bottom wears away, leaving a hole. Such a trash can is perfect for this project, since we’re just going to add more holes anyway.
Steps
Step #1: Clean the trash can.
Next
- Scrub the trash can thoroughly inside and out to ensure that no inorganic waste remains. If you’re squeamish about this, buy a new one.
- It’s helpful but not necessary to have a lid. If the original lid has gone missing, I’ll leave it to you to come up with another solution.
Conclusion
This project first appeared in MAKE Volume 31, page 155.
Related Projects
Garduino Geek Gardening
By: Luke Iseman
Backyard Graywater System
By: Tim Drew
Concrete Planters
By: Sean Michael Ragan
Gourd Lanterns
By: Diane Gilleland
Collapsible Trash Bag Frame
By: Sean Michael Ragan
Ball-Chain Plant Hangers
By: Sean Michael Ragan
Hose Stakes from Reused Hangers (for Drip-Irrigation Systems)
By: Michelle Hlubinka
Flower Pot iPhone Charger
By: Matt
