Keep food scraps in a closed container between pickups. Put it on the counter or under the sink, or use the refrigerator or freezer if you want cold storage to help limit odors and discourage pests. A clean, reusable food container works; a special compost pail is optional. Check your local compost program’s rules before adding scraps or liners.
Choose a storage spot that works for your kitchen
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends collecting fruit and vegetable scraps in a closed container. Its suggested locations are the kitchen counter, under the sink, the refrigerator, or the freezer. Pick based on available space, how often you can empty the container, and whether odor or pests are a concern.
| Storage spot | Good fit | What to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Counter | You want easy access while preparing food and empty the container regularly. | Use a closed container. Seattle Public Utilities also lists a countertop as a convenient location in its local collection guidance. |
| Under the sink | You prefer to keep scraps out of sight. | The EPA lists this as an option; make sure the container is easy to reach and empty. |
| Refrigerator | You have room for a dedicated container and want to keep scraps cold. | The EPA lists refrigerator storage. NYC Department of Sanitation’s Master Composter Manual recommends the refrigerator or freezer to help prevent odor and avoid attracting pests. |
| Freezer | You want to hold scraps cold until collection. | The EPA, Seattle Public Utilities, and Austin Resource Recovery list freezer storage as an option. Leave room to add scraps and remove the container when needed. |
Cold storage can help with odor and pest concerns, but no storage location is guaranteed to be odorless. The sources do not establish a universal maximum holding time; follow your collection schedule and your local program’s instructions.
Use a container you already have
You do not need to buy a specialized compost pail. Austin Resource Recovery says a coffee can, food storage container, or another reusable container can serve as a kitchen collector. Choose one with a lid that closes securely and a size you can comfortably empty into your pickup cart or drop-off container.
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If you keep scraps in the refrigerator or freezer, use a container suitable for that location. A reusable container is the simplest starting point; only use a bag or liner if your local program explicitly accepts it.
Follow a simple between-pickup routine
- Set up a closed container. Place a reusable food container near where you prepare food, or keep it under the sink if that is more convenient.
- Choose the storage location. Keep it on the counter or under the sink for easy access, or place it in the refrigerator or freezer if odor or pests are a concern.
- Empty it as directed. Transfer scraps to the designated pickup cart or drop-off container according to your service’s instructions.
- Check local rules before adding uncertain items or liners. Accepted materials and bag policies differ among municipalities, haulers, and facilities.
Check what your compost program accepts
Storage advice is not the same as an accepted-material list. The EPA notes that meat, dairy, fats, and some cooked foods can attract animals and are generally unsuitable for backyard compost piles, while commercial facilities may accept some of them. A commercial collection program’s rules depend on its facility, so check the instructions from your municipality or hauler rather than assuming the backyard list applies.
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Do not assume a bag labeled “compostable” belongs in the collection. The EPA lists compostable bags among items to avoid in backyard composting and advises checking facility acceptance. Use no liner, or use one only when your local service says it is accepted.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What countertop food-scrap appliances do—and do not do
A countertop grinder or dehydrator does not produce finished compost by itself. The EPA describes these appliances as making a dried food-scrap mixture that can be added to a composting system. If you use one, follow both the appliance instructions and your local program’s rules about whether it accepts the processed material.
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