Countertop Compost Bin

"Can you recommend a countertop compost bin?
We would like to continue composting but we need to have something in the kitchen.
I would like it to be relatively small & easy on the design eye (& wallet).
Thanks,
Anonymous "

Hooray!  Finally, someone has emailed me to ask a design question....First it's good to know a little about the purpose of a compost bin.  A compost bin is meant to contain compostable food items in on odor free container until it can be better placed outdoors to completely compost into usable soil/fertilizer.  If you have a great jar or bowl with a lid these will easily work for this purpose.  Be advised that clear containers will display the decomposing process to all and isn't attractive when you are trying to cook a meal.  And the easier to clean the container the better!

But if are looking for something ready to buy try these options:

From Norpor this white ceramic composter is cute enough to sit on a countertop and also comes in red.  Starts around $19-

If your looking for a more organic look try this Bamboo compost pale from the Container Store for $39-

We use a stainless steel pale underneath our kitchen sink.  It's really easy to clean out and can be left on our countertop (as long as nothing has been too stinky in there).  Here is a similar one to what we have from Crate and Barrel for $39-

Compost pales are coming with carbon filters to squash the odor.  These need to be replaced every 6 months.  We don't use one and instead are diligent about emptying ours into our compost pile outside whenever a smell creeps in front of us.

AND if you really want the Rolls Royce of kitchen composting check out this composter from NatureMill:
Not cheap for $299 but it's pretty much idiot proof with ready to use compost in only 2 weeks!

With whatever you choose it's wonderful that you have chosen to compost to cut back on the burden in our landfills and instead invigorate your garden or lawn with an inexpensive and environmentally friendly process!  Keep up the good work!