Kitchen Waste

• Any organic kitchen waste is perfect for you compost bin. Vegetable peelings, fruit, coffee grounds, tea bags, paper towels and napkins are all fine. With paper towels and napkins, make sure that they haven't been contaminated with toxic cleaning products or used for illnesses. If they have been used to clean up after spills then they should be fine. Never place cooked meats in your compost bin. They take forever to break down and can attract vermin to your bin. Cardboard products also are safe options.
  
  

Yard Waste

• Your yard waste can also help create excellent compost. Save your grass cuttings, branches, leaves and trimmings. These all will break down nicely in the bin to give your soil the needed nutrients. Most plant life is fine for the compost bin but never place diseased plants inside. They will add no nutritional value to your soil and the disease could spread contaminating your compost.
  
  

Manures

• There are certain types of manures that make great compost material and those that have access to it should not be afraid to place it in their bins. Generally horse, cow and chicken manure are regarded as some of the best. If you want to try manure in your bin, it is best to let it break down slightly first. Fresh manure is full of nutrients and might be a bit too potent for your plants. If the manure is going to sit with the other waste for the entire compost period, then that should be sufficient time. Never place dog or cat manure in your bin or dirty diapers.
  
  

The Balance

• The best compost will be made from a mix of kitchen and yard waste. Simply fill your bin to the top, stir it occasionally and let the matter break down. This is a lengthy process. Good compost can take anywhere from six to nine months to create but the end result is worth the wait. You will know the compost is ready when a dark, soil-like substance is seen.