How to Make a Worm Bin

Creating a DIY worm bin is cheap and fast. Here’s the no-nonsense build.

Simple DIY bin with lid, drill, and starter supplies

Materials Needed

Plastic tote (10–50 gal), lid
Power drill + bits
Bedding (coir/newspaper/leaves/cardboard)
Red wigglers (Eisenia fetida)
Food scraps (veg peels, coffee grounds, eggshells)
Spray bottle for moisture

Step 1: Drill the Tote

Drainage. Drill small holes in the bottom corners/low points so excess moisture can escape.
Side/lid ventilation example on a tote Ventilation. Drill rows of small holes near the top edges on all sides for airflow.
Lid (optional). If you keep the lid on, add a ring of holes near the rim.

Step 2: Add Bedding

3–4” of moist bedding (wrung-out sponge feel). Fluff for airflow.

Step 3: Add Worms

Use E. fetida. Start with ~½–1 lb (500–1000 worms). Place on bedding; they’ll burrow.

Step 4: Feed

Bury small amounts under bedding:

Veg scraps, coffee grounds/filters, crushed eggshells
Shredded cardboard/paper
Avoid meat/dairy/oils and heavy citrus.

Step 5: Maintain

Keep 55–77°F (13–25°C), dark, and damp (not soggy).
Rotate feeding zones; add dry bedding if wet; mist if dry.

Step 6: Harvest Castings

Feed one side for a few days so worms migrate. Scoop castings from the other side.

Troubleshooting

Smell? Too wet/overfed → add carbon; slow down.
Fruit flies? Always bury scraps.
Worms on walls? Check heat/acid; vent more; add dry bedding.