Cool, Clean, & Critter Free Composting
Summer in Missoula means farmers markets, backyard gatherings, float trips down the Clark Fork… and yes, some extra aroma from your curbside compost bin. But don’t sweat it, hot weather composting doesn’t have to stink.
Whether you’re a seasoned soil-saver or new to the bin game, here are some helpful summer tips to keep your compost routine smooth, clean, and pest-free.
Tips & Tricks to Master Summer Composting
Line That Bin: Compostable BioBags or even a sheet of newspaper can help keep food scraps from sticking and cut down on cleaning. A piece of cardboard at the bottom of your bin will help soak up excess liquid and maintain the integrity of your bio bag during your use. You can purchase bio bags in store or online.
Freeze It 'Til Bin Day: Got a little extra freezer space? Store especially fragrant items like meat scraps or dairy in the freezer, and toss them in your bin just before pickup. You’ll keep smells down and avoid attracting bugs or critters. Just don’t forget!
Air It Out: A little airflow can go a long way. Don’t clamp the lid shut too tightly on hot days; ventilation helps minimize moisture buildup and funk. Anaerobic (no oxygen) bacteria are not only slower, but they also release gases like hydrogen sulfide, which smells like rotting eggs. Promote aerobic (oxygen) bacteria by cracking the lid every now and then. The smell of oxidized decomposition is more mild and earthy, compared to non-oxygenated decomposition.
Layer Up: Fresh grass and foods heavy in moisture and rich in nitrogen decompose more quickly than their carbon-rich counterparts, like cardboard. Slow down the rate of decomposition and improve airflow in your bin by layering dry materials like paper towels, dead leaves, or sawdust between cut grass and food.
No Plastic, Please: Increased events and gatherings in summer may also increase the amount of food-related plastic you're exposed to. Remember if it’s not compostable, it doesn’t belong - even if it’s little. Keep plastic fruit stickers, twist ties, and other trash far from the compost bin. This helps us keep our finished compost clean and ready for your garden.
What about bio-plastic? Missoula Compost accepts, and even sells, bio-plastic products often used at local events like the Pride Parade, Missoula Marathon, and down at the Clark Fork Market. Local businesses like Bernice’s Bakery, The Good Food Store, and Green Source also use bioplastics. Please only compost bio-plastics if you are 100% certain it is BPI or TUV certified. If in doubt, leave it out!
Got Bears? Get the right bin to shut them out
If you live near the Rattlesnake, Grant Creek, Pattee Canyon, or other wooded edges of town, do your bin (and your neighborhood) a favor and upgrade to a bear-resistant bin.
These rugged bins keep your compost secure and help protect wildlife from getting too curious. They’re easy to use, certified by the IGBC (International Grizzly Bear Committee), and let you compost with confidence.
Need a bear bin?
Help Your Community Compost!
Volunteers are needed for the Green Team at the Pride Parade this weekend and the upcoming Missoula Marathon! Sign up for a couple of hours the next few weekends to support and guide others in your community towards effective composting. The Green Team ensures that waste is separated correctly and reduces the stress of making the right choices when faced with throwing things away. Connect your community and learn together to reduce waste and rescue resources. Sign up on the Home ReSource website!
Pride Parade - Saturday, June 21, 2025 (Look for Zero Waste Duty)
Missoula Marathon - June 27-29, 2025 (Look for shifts with the Green Team)
Zootown Music Festival - July 4-5, 2025 (Volunteer to get access to the concerts!)
Westerm Montana Fair - August 5-10, 2025 (Volunteers get great thank-yous from the fair!)
River City Roots Festival - August 22-23, 2025 - Signups coming soon
You’ve got this
Composting in the summer might come with a few quirks, but with a lined bin, a little airflow, and a bit of compost knowledge, you’ll stay cool, clean, and critter-free. And if you ever feel like you’re in over your head, remember we are always here to help!
Your friends at Missoula Compost.
