Do You Need A Lid On Your Compost Bin?

Most of the composting systems available on the market come with a lid of some sort. So this begs the question - does my compost bin really need a lid?

There are a number of reasons why you may choose not to have a lid. You may be building your own bin or enclosure and not be in a position to include a cover in the design. You may even just be composting in a pile somewhere in a back corner of your garden.

The reality is that the microorganisms which decompose the organic matter in your bin, heap or pile have been at work since long before compost bin lids were invented. So strictly speaking, no, a lid is not a necessity.

Having said that however, there are some good reasons why you may want to stick a cover on your bin.

It will keep animals out. Most places in the world have some local wildlife which will be attracted to the fruit and vegetable scraps in your compost. Having a lid on your bin will deter most scavengers from raiding your bin.

A lid will reduce the smell. Although a well-functioning compost pile should not produce odours which are too offensive, it is still possible to get a waft of something unpleasant. A well fitted cover should help to minimise these unwelcome "fragrances".

Retention of heat and moisture. Along with the right levels of carbon, nitrogen and oxygen, water is crucial to the decomposition process. So by having a cover or lid over your compost, you will be able to retain moisture and stop your pile from drying out. Also, to get the decomposition working really fast you need to retain heat within the pile. The microorganisms at work will generate their own heat but by having a cover you can help retain more heat.

So the TLDR is - no, you don't need a lid on your compost bin. But it will help.