When it comes to easy, natural, and affordable organic composting, the Algreen Soil Saver Composting Bin is a good choice. Constructed with a simple, open-bottom design, the Algreen SoilSaver Classic Composter is an easy way for the compost and ground soil to meet. This system allows effective composting with less dripping, fewer stirrings, and no strenuous spins to mix organic materials.
Plus, we love that it’s made by Algreen (and not AllGreen!)
This article examines Algreen Soil Saver Compost Bin, its key features, and specs, and considers whether this is a good purchase for backyard gardeners.
Algreen SoilSaver Classic Composter Review
Algreen Soil Saver Composting Bin is a hassle-free and easy-to-assemble bin. Unlike tumbling composters, there is no complicated metal stand to assemble, no drilling for screw fittings, and no exacting parts to connect. The SoilSaver classic is only made out of four rectangular wall panels, which easily bolt together. Combined with a secure-able top cover which is designed to ward off pests, there is little to assemble before you are ready to start composting!
Basic Specs
- Produces rich humus from nitrogenous and carbon-rich materials in 6 to 8 weeks
- Open-bottom design encourages composting
- Locking lid that keeps critters out
- Large bottom opening and two sliding doors for easy compost removal
- Rugged, military-grade construction
- Includes compost guidebook
For a short video detailing the basic features of the AlGreen SoilSaver, see here:
Dimensions and Capacities
- Product Dimensions : 27 x 27 x 32 inches
- Item Weight: 27 pounds
- Capacity: 12 cu. ft.
The Details
The AlGreen SoilSaver compost bin will not win a beauty pageant but is quite functional and useful. Unlike tumbling composters which require laborious spinning and repeated stirring, this bin encourages nature do most of the work.
Aesthetics
A black-colored and four-paneled bin, the SoilSaver is certainly not a thing of beauty, and ideally, it will sit out of sight. The recycled plastic used in the construction is high quality but has a mottled look that could be improved.
Most users aren’t out to purchase a composter based on looks, though, so this isn’t a major concern in our eyes.
Materials and Build Quality
The SoilSaver Compost System is BPA free and is made out of 100% recycled plastic. This composter is perfect for open lawns, as it is sturdy and non-toxic. This is not advisable to be placed in patios and laws with concrete and wood flooring because the compost would get in contact with the flooring that could damage and stain it, and placing it on raw earth will encourage compost processing.
Functionality
This functions as would a typical bin. It keeps the compost warm and protected from excess water. The bid can produce 12 cu. ft. of dark rich humus. It takes 6-8 weeks to produce a good amount of compost. It has a top handle to easily remove the lid. The lid has a knob to twist and lock into the slots on the slides.
Open-Bottom Design
Similar to other compost bins, it has an open-bottom design. This helps gravity to pull the compost towards the ground soil. By designing the bin in this way, worms and bacteria from the ground make quick work of reaching the compost, consuming the nitrogenous materials, and generating the natural fertilizer. The design also allows groundwater to sip through the humus, which is helpful.
Adding and Removing Compost
The top lid has no hinges. It can be easily removed to create a wide opening for easy addition and removal of compost. Two panels have sliding doors on the bottom for compost removal.
Occasionally, organic materials may lock the sliding doors, which can be an irritation. In these cases, it is often necessary to dig under the door in order to release the compost.
Shoving the compost out of the top can be rough on the back. It’s better to bend your knees when moving compost from the bin to a wheelbarrow and to use the bottom access doors whenever possible.
Ventilation
To improve airflow and to mix the contents of the bin, stir the compost using a shovel or pick occasionally. Placed around the panels in several locations are fine holes which encourage aeration. The lid could also be opened slightly for extra airflow, though leaving the bin open may create a refuge for pests.
Installation and Assembly
There are four panels that connect together using plastic bolts, and two halves fit the top lid. The entire assembly process can be completed in 15 minutes and is a significant positive aspect to this system relative to many of the other composters that require difficult assembly.
The bin should be placed in a secure place, critters such as armadillo, raccoons, and rats could get into the bin while large animals such as dogs, bears and the like can easily knock off the bin.
Cleaning and Maintenance
To clean this bin, open the lid and the sliding doors to free up any loose compost. A host-down wash will do. The bolts head could break when the bin is pressured out of excessive piling of organic materials. Avoid pressing the compost down the bin.
Accessories
There are no major accessories needed with the SoilSaver Compost Bin, though there are two that could be of some use. You may want to pick up a compost thermometer to monitor compost temperature (ideally keeping the temp under 160′), and you may want to pick up a bag of compost starter/accelerator to get the process rolling. Neither is absolutely necessary.
As a nice bonus, a composting guidebook comes with the package for free.
SoilSaver Compost Bin: The Bottom Line
The design of the SoilSaver is clever, and it works well. It is, however, at a price point that is a bit awkward. For significantly less money, you can get a Geobin compost system, which functions somewhat similarly to the SoilSaver, and has no worse aesthetics.
And for a little more, you could go up to the Lifetime Compost Tumbler, which is tumbling and has many nice features not found on the SoilSaver.
That said, the AlGreen SoilSaver Classic is a design that allows nature to do its most of the composting, and does not require much assembly or work. This bin is helpful for serious gardeners who don’t have much time to spend on composting.
Nature can lend a hand, and this product proves that less effort can still yield a rich fertilizer.
Our lock has broken off the lid can we get a replacement lock