Instructions to Build a Simple Compost Tumbler

Composting is an excellent way to reduce waste, enrich your garden soil, and promote sustainable living. A compost tumbler makes the process faster and more efficient by allowing for easy mixing of organic materials and better aeration. Building your own compost tumbler is a rewarding DIY project that can save money and give you control over the size and design. This article provides detailed instructions on how to build a simple compost tumbler using readily available materials.

Why Build a Compost Tumbler?

Before diving into the construction, it’s useful to understand the benefits of a compost tumbler over traditional compost piles:

• Faster Composting: Tumbling mixes the materials thoroughly, accelerating decomposition.
• Odor Control: Proper aeration reduces foul smells.
• Convenience: Easy to turn reduces labor.
• Pest Resistant: Elevated and enclosed design deters animals.
• Neatness: Keeps your compost contained and tidy.

Now, let’s get started on building a simple, effective compost tumbler.

Materials Needed

To build a basic compost tumbler, you’ll need the following materials:

• Barrel: One or two 55-gallon plastic barrels with lids (food-grade plastic preferred).
• Frame Material: Wood or metal for the stand and supports.
• Axle Rod: A sturdy metal rod or pipe long enough to hold the barrel horizontally.
• Bearings or Bushings: To allow smooth rotation of the barrel.
• Handles: For turning the barrel easily.
• Hinges and Latches: For access doors (optional).
• Drill with bits
• Saw (if cutting wood or metal)
• Screws, bolts, and nuts
• Weatherproof paint or sealant (optional)
• Protective gloves and safety glasses

Step 1: Prepare the Barrel

Selecting the Barrel

Choose a 55-gallon plastic drum that is food-grade if possible. Avoid barrels that held chemicals or toxic substances. You can often find clean barrels through local businesses, farms, or online marketplaces.

Cleaning

Thoroughly wash out the barrel with soap and water to remove any residues. Allow it to dry completely.

Adding Ventilation Holes

To ensure proper aeration:

1. Use a drill fitted with a 1/4-inch drill bit.
2. Drill multiple holes (about 20-30) evenly spaced around the barrel’s surface , especially near the top and bottom areas. These will allow oxygen flow while keeping moisture balanced.
3. Be careful not to weaken structural integrity; avoid drilling too close to edges.

Adding Drainage Holes

At the bottom of the barrel, drill several small holes (around 1/8-inch) for drainage of excess moisture.

Cutting Access Door (Optional)

For convenience in adding materials or removing finished compost:

1. Mark a rectangular door on the side of the barrel near its midpoint.
2. Carefully cut out the door using a jigsaw or saw suitable for plastic.
3. Attach hinges along one edge and a latch on the opposite side to secure it.

If you prefer not to add an access door, simply use the open ends capped with removable lids.

Step 2: Build the Frame

The frame will hold your barrel horizontally off the ground to allow rotation.

Choosing Frame Material

Wood is easiest for most DIYers , use sturdy 2×4 lumber. Metal frames provide durability but require welding skills.

Dimensions

• The frame must be wide enough to support both sides of the barrel securely.
• Height should allow comfortable tumbling without bending over , typically about 3 feet tall.
• Leave clearance underneath so air can circulate around the tumbler.

Construction Steps

1. Cut four legs approximately three feet long each.
2. Create two side supports by connecting two legs at each end with cross braces , forming rectangular frames.
3. Add horizontal supports at top and bottom between these rectangles for stability.
4. Build cradle supports that curve slightly to fit barrel shape or create flat platforms lined with rubber strips to prevent slipping.

Ensure everything is square and stable using screws or nails.

Step 3: Install Axle Rod and Bearings

Axle Rod Preparation

The axle holds your barrel in place while allowing rotation:

1. Use a steel rod slightly longer than barrel width by about 8 inches (to secure on frame).
2. If threading is needed for nuts, have ends threaded or plan to weld caps after assembly.

Attaching Bearings or Bushings

Bearings reduce friction when rotating:

1. Select appropriate bearings sized for your rod diameter.
2. Fix them securely on frame supports where axle will pass through.

If bearings aren’t available, heavy-duty bushings or washers can suffice but may require more effort to turn.

Step 4: Mounting the Barrel on Frame

1. Position barrel horizontally between side supports.
2. Slide axle rod through one side of frame, through bearing/bushing, then through barrel’s center hole (you may need to drill larger holes in barrel ends).
3. Pass rod through other bearing/bushing on opposite frame side.
4. Secure rod with washers and nuts on both ends; leave enough slack so barrel can spin freely but not wobble excessively.

Step 5: Attach Handles

For easy tumbling:

1. Attach sturdy handles at each end of axle rod outside frame using bolts or welding steel brackets.
2. Handles should be comfortable grip size and shaped for leverage.

Alternatively, attach one handle to only one side if space is limited; turning will be less balanced but still effective.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Painting or Sealing

Paint wooden frame parts with outdoor weatherproof paint or sealant to prevent rot.

Adding Labels

Label your tumbler “Compost Only” for clarity if used in community settings.

Positioning Your Compost Tumbler

Place your tumbler in a sunny location if possible , heat helps accelerate decomposition , but avoid overly exposed windy areas that dry out contents quickly.

How to Use Your Compost Tumbler Effectively

Building it is half the job; proper use ensures great results:

Layering Ingredients

Add alternating layers of green nitrogen-rich materials (fruit scraps, grass clippings) and brown carbon-rich materials (dry leaves, shredded paper).

Moisture Balance

Keep contents damp but not soggy , like a wrung-out sponge.

Turning Frequency

Rotate tumbler every 2-3 days to mix materials and introduce oxygen which speeds up microbial activity.

Monitoring Temperature

A properly working composter heats up internally (between 130degF -160degF). Use a compost thermometer to check progress.

Harvesting Finished Compost

After about 4-8 weeks depending on conditions, your compost will look dark, crumbly, and smell earthy. Open access door or remove lid to extract finished product.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Foul Odors: Too wet? Add more browns; turn more often.
• Slow Decomposition: Check material mix; add nitrogen if mostly browns.
• Difficulty Rotating Barrel: Lubricate bearings; reduce moisture content inside barrel.
• Pests Getting In: Ensure holes are small; keep lids closed tight; elevate frame securely.

Conclusion

Building a simple compost tumbler is an achievable project that can transform organic waste into valuable garden fertilizer efficiently and cleanly. By following these instructions carefully, from preparing your barrel, constructing a sturdy frame, installing an axle system, attaching handles, through proper use, you’ll enjoy faster composting cycles while reducing household waste footprint.

With some basic tools and materials, you can customize dimensions according to your needs and space constraints. Happy composting!