A composting bin

Can I put shredded paper in my compost bin?


Umm...😕


It's complicated, whether you can put shredded paper into your composting bin, so read on!

Key info
Brown material📂
2-5 months
170:1⚖️

Get the right balance of brown and green composting materials in your bin with our expert guide.


Yes, shredded paper can be added to a home composting bin as a source of carbon.

Shredded paper, along with other types of brown materials such as dead leaves and woody twigs, helps to balance the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio in the compost bin, which is important for promoting healthy decomposition.

There are a few types of paper that should not be added to a home composting bin: Glossy or coated paper: This type of paper is often coated with plastic or other synthetic materials that can take a long time to break down in a compost bin.

It is generally best to avoid adding these types of papers to your compost bin.

Colored or dyed paper: Colored or dyed paper may contain chemicals or pigments that can be harmful to plants and soil.

It is generally best to avoid adding these types of papers to your compost bin.

Paper with metal or plastic components: Paper products that contain metal or plastic components, such as metal foil or plastic-coated paper, should not be added to a home composting bin because they may not break down completely.

Pet waste: Paper products that have come into contact with pet waste, such as used cat litter or soiled paper towels, should not be added to a home composting bin because they can contain harmful bacteria that can be transmitted to the soil through the compost.

Overall, it is generally a

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