Can nail clippings go in your worm bin?
Yes, nail clippings (human or pet) can go in the worm bin. Like hair, they consist mainly of keratin, a protein that is broken down very slowly by microorganisms and worms in a worm bin. However, they are small and do not cause structural problems like clumping, as hair sometimes can. They do provide organic material and some nitrogen in the long term.
How many nail clippings can you add?
Add nail clippings in small quantities to your Bonter. Because they decompose so slowly, you will see them in the compost for a long time. Adding large quantities at once is not necessary and offers no extra benefits due to the slow breakdown. Sprinkle them occasionally over the waste and mix them through the bin and the existing bedding.
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What to do instead? Alternatives & waste management
Nail clippings are suitable for the Bonter, so you can easily dispose of them there if you want to contribute to the compost, even if it takes a long time. They are not harmful and do not cause problems. Another option is to throw them away with residual waste, as they compost so slowly. But adding them to the Bonter is a more sustainable choice than residual waste, as they eventually contribute to organic matter.
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Tips for composting nail clippings
Nail clippings are already small, so making them smaller is not necessary. Sprinkle the nail clippings over the waste in the Bonter and mix them well with the existing bedding and other waste to distribute them. This helps with contact with microbes and prevents them from lying in one spot. Ensure they are covered under a layer of bedding. They are not attractive to pests and do not cause odours.
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Frequently asked questions about composting nail clippings
Can nail clippings go in the worm bin?
Why do nail clippings decompose so slowly?
Should I make nail clippings smaller?
Can pet nails go in the bin?
Will nail clippings remain visible in the compost?
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