Every composting program is unique and may have slightly different guidelines on what can and cannot be composted. While most composting systems accept similar organic materials, there are key differences depending on the process and goals of each compost site.
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At Community Roots, we strive to create high-quality compost that can be returned to the community, which means we have specific guidelines on what we accept. By following these guidelines, you help ensure our compost remains clean, nutrient-rich, and free of contaminates.
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Read below to learn what materials are accepted in our compost and what should be kept out!
Still not sure if something is accepted in our compost? Read our Compost Q&A for answers on specific items!
Compost
common questions and answers
Q: Can I compost citrus peels?
A: Yes!
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Q: Can I compost paper towels?
A: Yes, as long as they're not soaked with chemicals (like cleaners) or oils
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Q: Can I compost leftovers?
A: It depends on the leftovers.
Acceptable leftovers:
- Plant based foods like cooked or raw fruits, vegetables, grains, pasta, bread, and rice (without excessive oils or sauces)
- Eggshells
- Plain coffee grounds and tea (without plastic tea bags)
Leftovers to avoid:
- Meat, dairy, and oily foods (these attract pests and odor issues)
- Highly processed foods (artificial additives and preservatives can slow decomposition)
- Large amounts of salty or sugary foods (can disrupt microbial activity)
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Q: Can I compost cardboard shipping packaging?
A: Yes, as long a you remove any packaging tape and stickers. And shred it up!
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Q: Can I compost the cardboard boxes from my foods?
A: No, the ink can contaminate our compost. It's best to recycle materials like food packaging.
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Q: Can I compost pizza boxes?
A: No, grease and oils can slow decomposition.
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Q: Can I compost cardboard egg cartons?
A: No, the ink on most cardboard egg cartons can contaminate our compost. However, we do accept them as donations for use as seed starter trays!
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Q: Can I compost milk cartons?
A: No, milk cartons have synthetic inks and a plastic lining that is not compostable.
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Q: Can I compost newspaper and other printed paper?
A: No, similar to cardboard food packaging, the ink can contaminate our compost. Synthetic colored inks typically contain heavy mentals.
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Q: Can I compost blank paper?
A: Yes! Paper is a good brown material and helps absorb excess liquids in the compost pile.
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Q: Can I compost paper bags?
A: No, we do not accept paper bags in our compost pile. Some paper bags have a thin plastic or wax coating that won't break down properly.
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Q: Can I compost fruit and veggie produce stickers?
A: No, fruit and veggie stickers are usually made of plastic and do not break down in compost.
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Q: Can I compost lint?
A: No. Lint from synthetic fibers won't break down properly in compost.
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Q: Can I compost dryer sheets?
A: No, most contain synthetic fibers and fragrances.
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Q: Can I compost feathers from my old pillows?
A: No. Feathers used in pillows are typically treated with chemicals or are synthetic.
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Q: Can I compost feathers from my pet bird?
A: Yes! Natural feathers that haven't been treated with chemicals are safe for compost.
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Q: Can I compost human hair? Can I compost pet hair?
A: While human hair and pet hair is typically compostable, we do not accept it in our compost pile. Dyed, permed, or chemically treated hair (such as pet hair treated with flea or tick medicine) can leave behind chemicals or contaminants.
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Q: Can I compost animal waste?
A: No. Feces from carnivorous animals breaks down slowly, releases odors, attracts pests, and could introduce harmful bacteria or parasites to our compost pile.