Wire Mesh Compost Bin

Wire mesh composting bins are inexpensive, easy to assemble and hold a large volume of yard materials. Hardware cloth wire is recommended to provide a sturdy bin that holds its shape. This bin can be used as a holding or turning unit. To turn, undo the latches or ties, set the bin up next to the pile and transfer the composting material into the empty bin. Stakes can be added for additional stability, but this will make it harder to turn the bin and harvest finished compost.
 

Cost: Less than $25

 

Capacity: Holds 1 cubic yard or 8 to 10 30-gallon bags of yard materials

 

Materials:

• 12 x ½ ft of 36" wide ½" hardware cloth
• 4 x metal or plastic clips or wire ties
• 3 or 4 x four ft metal posts (optional)

 

Tools:

• Heavy-duty wire or tin snips
• Pliers
• Hammer
• Metal file
• Work gloves
• Level

 

Construction Details:

Roll out and cut 12-½ ft of hardware cloth. Snip the ends off of the hardware cloth close to a cross wire. Then file down the sharp edges to make it easy to clip together and eliminate snagging hands. Bend hardware cloth into a circle and lap the ends of the fencing over each other. Attach clips or ties and set bin in level place. (Optional – place metal stakes evenly around the inside edge of the bin and hammer stakes in place.)

 

Source: University of Wisconsin–Extension - Solid and Hazardous Waste Education Center