Homemade Worm Bins

Plastic storage bins make great worm bins!  Ultraviolet light is toxic to worms, so bins should be made from an opaque material.  Bins should be 8-14 inches deep and have a snug fitting lid to keep out rodents.  Drill 1/4 inch holes in the bottom and sides, 5-7 inches apart, to provide ventilation and drainage. If you are using a utility knife to make holes, cut out triangles ¼ inch or smaller. 

The rule of thumb for bin size is two square feet of surface area per person, or one square foot of surface area per pound of food wastes generated each week.  Vegetarians often find they need a bin with four square feet of surface area per person. 

Plastic bins keep compost moist.  Add a layer of shredded paper after each feeding to keep the bin from getting too moist. 

Wooden Worm Bins

You can also make a worm bin out of plywood by downloading wood bin construction plans.

Commercial worm bins

Ready-made worm bins are available for purchase.  Most manufactured bins have approximately two square feet of surface area, and can handle about one pound of food scraps per week.  Most people find that a manufactured bin is sufficient for the food scraps of one person. Free and reduced cost bins are available to Santa Cruz County residents.  You may also purchase a manufactured worm bin from one of several local and on-line retailers.

Getting Started with the Can-O-Worms
Simplified directions for using a Can-O-Worms.

How to Use Your Worm Factory
Simplified directions for using a Worm Factory.

You can add worms to a backyard compost bin!  Learn how to do it!
More Options for Composting with Worms