·By Curtis Hacon

How To Compost Dog Poop In Your Balcony

How to compost dog poop in your balcony

Updated on February 1, 2023

It may sound weird, but composting dog poop on your balcony is possible! And much easier than you think. We know that you are worried about bad smells, but don't worry: we have it under control!

Do you want to discover how to make a good compost that includes dog poop on your balcony?

Compost Dog Poop In Your Balcony Step By Step 

Living in a small apartment does not mean that you cannot reduce your carbon footprint and also obtain wonderful compost for your small garden.

No matter how small your balcony is, you can create a composter bin suitable for the available space.

Of course, you won't be able to compost all of your dog's poop, but a bit. Even so, any reduction is good for the planet!

Read: Can You Put Dog Feces In Compost?

Pick The Best Compost Bin

To create your own DIY compost bin for the balcony, you can use flowerpots, a wooden box, or a trash can; of course, you can also create a small compost bin or vermicomposter.

If you opt for a homemade compost bin, you need to make holes in the base of the container, 10 cm from the base, and 10 cm from the edge to allow the waste to air, in addition, we advise you to cover it with dry leaves.

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Are you still using plastic bags to pick up your dog's poop? These take around 50 years to degrade. 
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Top 9 Materials To Prepare Dog Poop Compost At Home

1. A little soil: you can use new soil or soil that you have in a pot.


2. Nitrogen-rich materials:

  • dog poop
  • grass clippings
  • vegetables and fruits scraps
  • etc.

3. Carbon-rich materials:

  • sawdust
  • chopped straw or hay
  • newspaper
  • fallen leaves
4. A thermometer


5. A stick (or similar, to be able to stir the compost)

6. A bin

7. A shove

8. A pair of gloves

9. Compostable poop bags

NOTE: It is not recommended adding meat to the compost or citrus fruits. It is possible to add a little citrus peel, but not too much due to its acidity. If it is the first time that you prepare compost, better avoid them.

DIY Dog Poop Composter For Your Balcony

Once you have all the materials, it is time to get down to work and start making your compost.

To prepare it, you will have to layer the different elements, as if they were a lasagna!

  1. First, put an earth base of about 3 centimeters in the bin.
  2. Then, add 3 centimeters of organic waste: this is where fruit and vegetable waste comes in, your furry friend's poop (loose or with 100% plastic-free and compostable bags like Give a Sh!t), and green leaves or grass. Keep in mind that you should always wear a pair of gloves when handling your dog's poop and, therefore, this compost.
  3. Lastly, place the sawdust, the newspaper and dry leaves, and gently moisten them.
  4. Continue adding a layer of nitrogen-rich materials and then a layer of carbon-rich materials until the container is full.
  5. Then cover it. Dog poop compost takes about 4 months to be ready, although it may take longer depending on the particular conditions of your city and the materials incorporated (large branches need more time to clear, for example).
  6. Use the thermometer to check the temperature. When you see that it goes down, stir the compost (about every two weeks).
  7. Repeat this process until the temperature is stable: your compost is ready!

IMPORTANT: remember that the compost made with dog poop should not be used on vegetables or fruits that you plan to consume later. It is ideal for feeding your plants and flowers.

Discover: Dog Poop Bags: Degradable, Biodegradable Or Compostable?

Government Organic Disposal Services

Another option is to find out if your city government is implementing organic waste disposal services. Some cities like New York or Portland have them: their brown box program offers a starter kit that includes the composter bin. In addition, they collect waste so that it does not occupy all the space in your home.

Is it clear to you how to compost dog poop on your balcony? It's much easier than you thought, so what if?

FAQ

Compost dog poop in your balcony: a DIY compost bin _________________________

Did you know that at Give a Sh!t we donate 10% of our profits to the Soi Dog Foundation? Your purchase saves the lives of puppies that live on the street.

Check out our products here! Use the code 20%OFF today!!

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Why Should You Not Compost Dog Poop?

Dog poop is definitely compostable, but if you're thinking of using the resulting mix on veggies for dinner - think twice! A cani-can't situation, it's teeming with critters and toxins that are guaranteed to ruin your appetite. Don’t let a doggie dilemma derail your healthy eating goals - keep poo separate from produce at all costs!

Does Rain Break Down Dog Poop?

Do you have a balcony but still want to compost your pup's poop? Fret not! Rain can play an important role in composting your pup's waste. Although rain won't break down the poop on its own, it can help you find the right balance of moisture needed for composting. Just make sure to keep your compost pile sheltered from too much rain, so it doesn't become too wet. With the proper composting technique and a bit of patience, composting dog poop can be done effectively—even on a balcony! So go ahead and give composting your pup's poo a whirl now! Happy composting! 😉

Does Dog Poop Compost Smell?

Ah, the million-dollar question! We understand your concern about composting dog poop on your balcony and a possible smell that could come from it. But don't worry – we have it covered. Dog poop compost actually doesn't produce any bad smells if you do it right. In fact, you'll be surprised how easy and odorless composting dog poop can be! So, compost away and enjoy the benefits of composting with a peace of mind.

Does Baking Soda Dissolve Dog Poop?

No, baking soda does not dissolve dog poop. But composting it on your balcony? Now that's a different story! Composting is the process of breaking down organic material (like dog poop) into compost - a nutrient-rich soil amendment that you can use in your garden. With just a few simple steps, you'll be composting dog poop like a pro! So what are you waiting for? Let's get composting!  

Does Vinegar Get Rid Of Dog Poop?

You might be tempted to try using vinegar to get rid of your dog's poop - but don't! Not only is it ineffective, but it can also be dangerous for your furry friend and any other animals in the vicinity.

What Kills Dog Poop Bacteria?

Did you know that composting can actually kill off the bacteria in dog poop? Composting is basically composting organic matter, like food and dog waste, with a mix of browns (dried leaves, straw) and greens (vegetable scraps). When composted correctly, the heat generated by decomposing organic matter will kill off any harmful bacteria in the compost. Just make sure to compost your dog's waste well away from vegetables and other edibles, and always compost at least one part green material for every two parts browns!

 

 

BUY OUR 100% PLASTIC FREE AND 100% COMPOSTABLE DOG POOP BAGS HERE. 

Our bags have been a top seller on Amazon for almost 3 years now, and we just know you will love them.

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