The Bottom Line
The OXO Good Grips Compost Bin delivers exceptional odor control and convenient one-handed operation in a compact design. While it may require frequent emptying for large families, its practical features make it an excellent choice for most home cooks.
Product Overview
The OXO Good Grips Compost Bin transforms kitchen scrap collection from a messy chore into a streamlined process. This 1.75-gallon countertop composter features a flip-up hinged lid that opens with a simple push, allowing you to scrape plates and cutting boards directly into the bin without fumbling with removable lids. The white plastic construction with OXO's signature non-slip grip details fits seamlessly into modern kitchens while maintaining professional functionality.
Measuring 10.2 x 7.8 x 11 inches, this compact bin includes a removable inner bucket with an integrated handle for easy transport to outdoor compost piles or municipal collection bins. Typically priced between $25-35, it's widely available through major retailers and represents the mid-range option in OXO's kitchen organization lineup. The sealed design eliminates the need for proprietary filters while effectively containing odors during the 3-5 day collection cycle most households require.
What We Love
- One-handed operation: The spring-loaded hinged lid stays open while you scrape plates, then closes automatically – perfect when your other hand holds a messy cutting board
- Superior odor control: The tight-sealing lid creates an effective barrier against smells, even when storing onion peels and coffee grounds for several days
- Space-efficient design: Fits comfortably on standard counters without dominating your workspace, measuring roughly the footprint of a large coffee canister
- Easy maintenance: The smooth interior walls prevent food from sticking, and the removable liner wipes clean in seconds
- Transport-friendly: The inner bucket's sturdy handle makes trips to your outdoor compost pile comfortable, even when fully loaded
Room for Improvement
- Hinge maintenance needed: Food particles can accumulate around the lid mechanism, requiring periodic cleaning with a damp cloth or soft brush
- No charcoal filter: While odor control is generally excellent, households sensitive to any composting smells might prefer models with replaceable filters
- Limited capacity: Active cooks or families with 4+ members may need to empty the bin every 2-3 days rather than weekly
Real-World Performance
After using this composter daily for several months, its practical design shines during actual meal preparation. The flip-up lid mechanism works flawlessly when scraping plates – simply push the back edge and it springs open, staying put until you're finished. This hands-free operation proves invaluable when dealing with sticky dough remnants or when your hands are already messy from food prep. The 1.75-gallon capacity comfortably holds 3-4 days worth of scraps for a two-person household, including vegetable trimmings, coffee grounds, and eggshells.
Standout Feature
The sealed lid system truly excels at odor containment without requiring expensive filter replacements. Even with aromatic scraps like garlic skins and fish bones, opening the bin releases minimal smell, making it practical for open-concept kitchens where cooking and living spaces connect.
The removable inner bucket transforms emptying from a potential mess into a clean, controlled process. The integrated handle distributes weight evenly, preventing the awkward grip that can lead to spills. When full, the bin weighs approximately 8-10 pounds – substantial but manageable for most users. The smooth plastic interior rinses clean with basic dish soap, and stubborn residues wipe away easily with a damp cloth.
User Experience & Setup
Setup requires zero assembly – simply remove the packaging and place it on your counter. The bin's low-profile design fits under most upper cabinets while remaining easily accessible. The spring mechanism in the lid requires a brief break-in period of 10-15 uses before achieving optimal smoothness, but operation remains intuitive from the first use. Daily use reveals thoughtful details like the slightly textured bottom that prevents sliding and the inner bucket's tapered design that aids complete emptying.
"I was skeptical about keeping compost on my counter, but this bin changed my mind completely. The lid seals so well that I forgot it was there until I opened it to add scraps. No fruit flies, no smells – just convenient composting."
- Sarah from Oregon
The learning curve is minimal, though new users should understand that the lid requires a firm push to engage the spring mechanism properly. Light pressure won't open it fully, which actually prevents accidental opening but can confuse first-time users. The inner bucket occasionally sticks slightly when removing, particularly if the exterior gets wet, but this resolves with thorough drying.
Value Analysis
At $25-35, this composter occupies the middle ground between basic $15 containers and premium $50+ models with charcoal filtration systems. The value proposition centers on durability and convenience rather than rock-bottom pricing. Unlike cheaper alternatives that crack or develop persistent odors, the OXO maintains performance over extended use. The absence of ongoing filter costs – typically $15-20 annually for competing models – helps offset the higher initial investment within the first year.
💡 Compared to Similar Products: The Vitamix FoodCycler costs 10x more but offers electric processing, while the Simple Human composter costs $20 more but requires filter replacements. The OXO strikes the optimal balance of features and ongoing costs.
Long-term value depends heavily on usage patterns. Households composting 2-3 times weekly will appreciate the durable construction and consistent performance over years of use. However, occasional composters might find equal satisfaction in simpler, less expensive options. The smooth interior and quality materials suggest this bin will maintain functionality and appearance significantly longer than budget alternatives that often crack or stain within 12-18 months.
Who Should Buy This?
This composter suits households seeking convenient, odor-free scrap collection without ongoing maintenance costs. It excels for regular home cooks who generate consistent amounts of vegetable trimmings, coffee grounds, and food scraps but don't want composting to complicate their kitchen workflow. The compact footprint and attractive design make it ideal for smaller kitchens, apartments, or open-concept spaces where aesthetics matter alongside functionality.
Perfect For:
- Busy families: The one-handed operation streamlines cleanup when managing multiple tasks simultaneously
- Apartment dwellers: Compact size and excellent odor control work well in smaller spaces with limited ventilation
- Regular composters: Daily to weekly scrap generators will appreciate the optimal capacity and transport convenience
Skip If:
- Large households: Families with 5+ members may find the 1.75-gallon capacity insufficient for their scrap volume
- Odor-sensitive individuals: Those preferring absolute odor elimination should consider models with charcoal filtration systems
"As someone who cooks every night, this bin has become essential to my routine. The lid stays open while I chop vegetables, then seals everything away. It holds enough for our family of three for almost a week."
- Michael from Texas
Final Verdict
The OXO Good Grips Compost Bin succeeds by prioritizing practical functionality over flashy features. Its superior odor control, convenient one-handed operation, and maintenance-free design solve the real challenges of kitchen composting. While the capacity limitations and occasional hinge cleaning represent minor drawbacks, they pale compared to the daily convenience this bin provides.
Recommendation: Buy it if you want hassle-free composting that integrates seamlessly into your cooking routine. The solid construction and thoughtful design justify the mid-range pricing for most households ready to make composting a consistent habit.
