To build a basic worm bin, you will need:
- 2 10-gallon Rubbermaid Roughneck storage totes, must be opaque
- 2 4×4 blocks, cut about 5 inches in length (check the scrap wood section at the hardware store, and do not use pressure-treated wood)
- A drill and a 1/8 inch drill bit
This is a simple single-chamber bin with a second bin to retain any excess liquids. Wooden blocks support the main chamber bin to keep it from sinking under the weight of the worms & castings, and from getting stuck in the lower bin, which will reduce air flow.
To build the bin:
- Open one bin and place the blocks to create 5 inched of support.
- Put the second bin inside the first on top of the blocks. Mark the line where the top bin sits above the rim of the lower bin; this ensures that the air holes you drill are not blocked by the lower bin.
- Remove the top bin. In the top bin only, drill holes about every 3 inches above the the marked line on all four sides.
- Drill 20-30 holes in one of the lids. You will not use the other lid.
- Drill 8-10 holes in the bottom of the top bin for drainage.
- Clear any bits of shredded plastic left behind by the drill to reduce the chance of the holes being blocked later.
- Place the top bin back inside the bottom bin on top of the blocks, and put the lid on.
- Your bin is ready! To prepare the worm ecosystem, please see our page on setting up your worm bin.