More and more people are beginning to pay closer attention to how their carbon footprint affects the environment. We all want to do our part and help the planet. If you’re a seasoned composter or new to the idea, there may be items you’re unaware you can toss into the bin. These are the top things you didn’t know you could compost.
Hair, Animal Fur, and Nail Clippings
You probably throw excess animal fur, nail clippings, and hair in the trash, but here’s a more sustainable option. Toss these items into the compost pile. Spend time cleaning out any hair and pet brushes to add to the heap. The little earthworms in the dirt will thank you.
Masking Tape and White Glue
If you’re an arts and crafts enthusiast, it’s time to do a happy dance! All those glue and masking tape bits can go into the compost pile and help the environment. Maybe this tidbit will excite you enough to begin crafting more often. You’ll no longer be filling up the trash and landfills.
Cotton Balls and Swabs
Do you use cotton balls and swabs daily? Stop throwing them in the trash and toss them into the compost. You may want to place a small compost bin in the bathroom as a gentle reminder.
The cotton swabs you use must be free of plastic. If not, then, unfortunately, they have to go into the garbage. Maybe this will push you to purchase sustainable swabs so that you can compost them. Ensure that you don’t toss used floss into the compost bin.
Wine Corks
If you enjoy a bottle of wine with a natural cork, toss it into the compost heap. It will break down and help your pile because it’s natural. Be aware that some wineries use plastic corks that resemble natural ones. These can’t go into the bin, so pay close attention and don’t assume.
Leftover Cooking Oil
It will probably shock you to learn that small amounts of leftover cooking oil can go into the compost pile. It’s a safe and effective way to dispose of cooking oil. Only specific types of oil can go into the bin, though. These include:
- Vegetable oil
- Corn oil
- Sunflower oil
- Grapeseed oil
- Canola oil
- Rapeseed oil
- Sesame oil
- Cottonseed oil
- Soybean oil
Paper towels soaked in grease are completely fine, but avoid dumping the entire pan of vegetable oil into the bin. Too much oil can harm the compost bin and attract pesky rodents and pests. Understand that if the oil has animal fat, you can’t compost it.
Composting is a simple and effective way to live a more sustainable life. Start filling up your compost bin with the above items you didn’t know you could compost. You’ll be helping the environment and maybe begin paying closer attention to the other life aspects you can change.
