HOTBIN MEGA Assembly

FAQ's and tips
What's That Smell?
A cabbagey/earthy odour is normal whilst
an ammonia whiff is temporary and related
to composting grass. Putrid odours indicate
an anaerobic bin which can be fixed by
re-balancing the oxygen and moisture
levels by mixing in woody material and
paper/card. Seek further help if required.

Composting Grass

Adding too much grass can result in a slimy,
smelly mess. Add grass in thin layers mixed
with shredded paper. If adding more than
60ltrs at a time (large mower box) without
any other garden waste, we recommend
adding in an extra 1/10 to 1/20 (10-20%) of
woody material to improve aeration.

Keep the Heat In

Always ensure that the walls are fitted
together tightly with no gaps and secure
using the ratchet strap(s). The lid should
always be pushed down firmly into place.

Is the Heap too Dry?

Depending on the mix of materials being
composted, sometimes the contents can
become quite dry. Both water and oxygen
are required to keep bacteria working so for
a really dry heap add 5ltrs of tepid water to
keep bacteria composting effectively.
Call free 0808 168 8499
Sign up for the
Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm free newsletter
HOTBIN has a 3 year manufacturer's guarantee.
This excludes damage caused by wildlife and undue care.
HOTBIN Composting
email: help@hotbincomposting.com |web:

What About Rats?

Avoid adding cooked food into the bin if
you have an existing issue with rats. Rats
can and will chew through almost
anything including concrete.

Always Clean Up

Keep the HOTBIN clean, ensure no food
waste is left around the base or
surrounding area. Wipe around lid and
wall seals to clear any loose waste or
compost that may cause an imperfect fit.
This will help contain odours which may
attract vermin.

Best Place to Locate The Bin?

Sun or shade! Locate on a flat level
surface with access to all four sides as this
will aid assembly, disassembly and fixing
the ratchet strap(s) into place.

How Much Waste To Keep it Hot?

Minimum of approx 20kg (40ltrs), that's
1 mower box or ½ a wheelbarrow.

Winter Composting

To jump start winter composting, add 5 ltrs
of boiling water to the heap or use a HDPE
bottle filled with boiling water such as our
kick start bottle (available to purchase).
Chat on the forum HOTBIN advice
and social media on YouTube
hotbincomposting.com | call: 0808 168 8499
Heal t h and Safety
Composting is a natural process involving
micro-organisms (bacteria and fungi).
Humans have been composting safely
for thousands of years, however we
advise adhering to basic hygiene.
• Always wear gloves, cover cuts and
wash hands after composting.
• DO NOT leave kitchen caddy, gloves
or other composting equipment near
food preparation surfaces.
v.1-22
HOTBIN
Welcome to Composting
Two person assembly recommended
• Take appropriate precautions if you
suffer from asthma or related respiratory
conditions e.g. wear a dust mask.
• Take care when handling hot water,
Thermometer & chopping waste.
• Check the temperature is at 40°c using
an internal thermometer before adding
cooked food waste and weeds.
Please read the online health and safety
advice in the HOTBIN help section.