Compost Tumbler Review & Would I Buy Another One?

[@MrMerlinVII]

I use an old cement mixer to tumbe our compost - the motor broke ages ago and the general shape of the machine qualifies it for the junkyard, but it's easy enough to turn the flywheel still. Built a wooden door for it and voila, a free tumbler that has all the necessary features!

[@juiced-fightclub-hamster]

You just answered my question. I got to wondering if an electric cement mixer would work. I found a 6 cu ft mixer for around $300 US .

[@terryteed1903]

Love a bit of thrift.

[@yairbennett8996]

Wish I could have as comprehensive a review as this one on every product.

[@hamburger512]

He's only one man

[@breedingbubbles]

This is possibly the best and most honest review I have ever seen on any product. Honest feedback without running the product down too much. And I love how Maze Products replied and got involved.

[@brigidlaffey7343]

@Jacquie Lautman If I understand you correctly how amazing that you would not only do such a thing but be proud of it and tell others how to invade private space of those you supposedly care for...& to show the more unscrupulous how to do it. Stunned, I am

[@hair_ofthedog5023]

I have to say I completely agree. Happy to sub to learn more.

[@gmw3083]

I bought a similar cheap one that's still in the box. Requires total assembly. I bought 3 bearings to go on the shaft. Ends and middle. That appeared to be the weakest point. Will do other mods that seem appropriate when i finally put it all together. I don't think mine has a handle. Maybe will add one.

[@sarahel6930]

I must be missing it somehow. Where did Maze reply please?

[@anneewert9945]

I know this is an older video, but goodness I just LOVE watching ALL of your videos Mark!!! You are such a gem of a person. Thank you for taking the time to make your videos. I love how informative they are, and I adore your sense of humor.

[@jashueman]

A friend broke the rotating arm on my maze compost. I googled replacement parts for the bin, ticked the broken components from a list, and pesto! Maze delivered the replacement parts with in a week. Really happy with the compost bin, and maze service.

[@edwardchester1]

That's really cool. So few companies offer that, in my experience.

[@OutdoorScienceDad]

I appreciate your comment. This compost tumbler is more expensive than others I am considering but I really like this one. Excellent customer service is worth the extra money.

[@jennhoff03]

Haha! I know it was a typo, but I'm a big fan of basil, so I'm gonna start saying, "pesto!" when something awesome happens, too. :)

[@jasonmitchell8712]

@@jennhoff03 oh no, what have I done! haha..Still love my tumbler! - as do the worms that thrive inside.

[@kellicarmichael7462]

The arm looks pretty weak in this review and is clearly an issue as a replacement is now available from Bunnings. My point is, it should be sturdy enough to do what it is supposed to do without the customer having to cop an additional $50 for a replacement gear and handle. Just saying....

[@piglet4654]

Awesome review Mark. After contemplating it for several months I finally bought one of these this weekend. As a 50-year-old, not particularly mechanically minded female I have to admit I was a little nervous when I opened the box and saw all the parts and the size of the instruction manual. However, 2 ½ hours later I had it put together with a bit of contortionist work but virtually no swearing (most unlike me). The finished product is not too heavy to lift and manoeuver but actually very sturdy. If anyone’s contemplating getting one of these, the instruction manual is really good but here’s 3 handy tips. Look at how many screws they tell you you need in each section. A couple of times they say “Put these 2 screws in first” but they don’t say “then put the next 8 in”. Logical in hindsight but if you’re like me and you follow the instructions exactly as they’re written it’s easy to miss. When you get to the end and find you’ve got screws left over don’t panic like I did and start taking the thing apart. Turns out they give you spares (Doh!). Like Mark I also noticed the handle was a bit wobbly, even though I tightened the screws as much as possible. I ended up removing the handle assembly, held the allen key with a pair of pliers and was able to tighten it a lot more. That fixed the wobble.

[@veganvocalist4782]

Gosh you are patient , I would not have ANY motivation to put this product together ;D lol well done

[@darthmicrobius]

I agree with the wobble solution here; the screws are not easy to tighten and gives more resistance than expected; unclear if that is a design flaw or intentional.

[@Kaz_81]

We need someone like you to come up with the design, so it can meet all the needs. Love your videos.

[@madisonbabcock6768]

I love how you think about how design will effect old or disabled people! They need to be considered more when making things.

[@darkknight145]

Consideration for the old and disabled should be a priority, The hatch should be made bigger to fit them in easier!

[@DovidM]

We will all be old someday, and we break a leg at any stage of life.

[@rickyrick9328]

affect

[@AfkaSound]

Ye sadly this would be prefect for me being a wheelchair user but unfortunate wouldn’t actually be able to build it.

[@deomeslives]

@Dror Levi fake

[@omegaone7650]

Hello.Thanks. Watched some of your videos. One way we speed up the decay process is, we put our food scraps in the blender, adding water to it. It's worked great for us. It is pretty much ready to use. Cuts down on weeks of decay. Hope this helps.

[@xyzsame4081]

And / or collecting stinging nettle leaves and blend them, they add nitrogen.

[@LadySpace_888]

This has always been a nice idea but for me personally, not at all sustainable.

[@giuseppemarozzo6903]

Absolutely love your honesty. Didn't even try to partner with a producer for money, just gave an honest and unbiased review. More of this!

[@pholliez]

I just love how fair and thorough you are!

[@louistart1173]

That's what his wife says😜

[@angelaking8590]

If anyone is still thinking about this composter - we've been really happy with our Maze Tumbler and actually bought it through our local council (goes through Compost Revolution) for about $100 less than Bunnings! I've also bought our worm farms etc through the council. I've just had an early hip replacement and the old bin composter was almost impossible to stir/aerate but this tumbler is excellent. Turns very easily even when really full. We make a huge amount of compost for a small household so still use the old bin, but am thinking of buying a second tumbler for ease of use. I put a tarp under the opening and just dump out all the compost onto the tarp - means I can also separate any worms.

[@RoseThistleArtworks]

That is very surprising about the nuts and bolts. It is an outdoor item handling acidic compost. That seems like it should be assumed. Thank you for your thorough review.

[@DovidM]

I would think that the difference in cost would be minimal for the manufacturer. Perhaps the engineer failed to specify the use of galvanized fasteners.

[@ronhopwood1955]

G'day Mark. I have had a tumbler composted for about 4 years. It really does a good job of breaking down matter. It is large and difficult to turn when full, but the results are worth the effort I think. Thank you very much for your videos. I like that you spend a lot of time explaining things. Other gardening shows have too much content and therefore can't devote enough time specific topics etc. Thanks again mate.

[@mWaffen]

Build two tumbling units: 50 gallon galvanized barrel with welded stand, motorized turning - (Washing machine geared down) and Evac bottom to wheel barrel: Cost $95 USD; Labor time 6 hours

[@VeryLikeLeigh]

You should do a youtube video on how to make this. Or if you know of one already, can you link us to it?

[@colinwilson389]

I built a trio of tumblers from 220L Olive barrels I found at a local recylers. They have a wide mouth opening with a screw lid that works perfectly to access the contents. These barrels, 4ea 8 foot 2x4 pieces of lumber and an iron pipe as a pivot and a little hardware completed the tumblers. Total cost for all three was less than $100USD. This design tumbles end over end with the pivot through the sides, not the ends. I added a large handle to the bottom to assist once the contents break down and settle to only half of the tumbler. I wouldn't advise this design for a lightweight or elderly person as it can take your body weight and a little strength to get it to come over the top on each tumble, but most people fit enough to garden would have no issues. I have back issues, but I'm big enough to have no problem getting them to rotate quite easily. I like to fill them up completely all at once. When full, they are well balanced and very easy to tumble. They are now 20 years old and I had to rebuild the frame as it rotted out. The barrels are still as good as ever. These tumblers will compost a mix of mowed grass/weeds, partially composted wood chips and some blood and bone meal to a rich dark compost in 8-12 days. Yes, DAYS! In the last month I have filled the three tumblers 10 times ( 3-4 times each) and produced well over a cubic yard of nice compost. Done that quickly it still has a lot of texture, so the smaller your material is to begin with, the better it comes out. So I mow everything that I put into it. If you want it more broken down, you can then move it to an open bay system and let it rest for a while longer. Straight out of the tumbler it makes a great mulching fertilizer.

[@oldbatwit5102]

Motorising a tumbler that only needs a couple of rotations every few days? Put a bloody handle on it.

[@naserazizi]

That's I would call it honest review. Unlike those who has commercial connection with suppliers. Thanks Mark. Keep your reviews as it is.

[@timmartin8191]

Never a bad video from you. Always honest and sincere and that is much appreciated!

[@Cheekilyabsent]

Assembly: I made a coffee, got myself a chair, and asked my two teenage sons assemble it. They saw it as a fun puzzle challenge. It was a fun family moment 😃 And I love it! It works absolutely perfectly for my inner city property.

[@denismageau8781]

Hi Mark, Denis from northern Canada, I have the same tumbler for about 4 years now and although our seasons are much much shorter than Australia, it still does a great job at composting my kitchen waste and the minus 40 degree weather has not deteriorated the plastic one bit. love you’re your channel very informational. Thanks

[@Selfsufficientme]

Happy composting everyone! Long night editing... Time for a different "tumbler" for me - one that holds a spirit... :) P.S Please see this video if you're wondering how long it took to make the compost kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z4exhKmhj8R3lcU Cheers ;) Shop on Amazon for compost tumblers: bit.ly/2V1o46A Shop for Tumbler composters on eBay Australia: bit.ly/2STBxA4

[@kivala1695]

oby Hemenway Bomb-Proof Sheet Mulch I recommend you this one... less work but healthier veggies...

[@camus83489]

i just bought one for my suburban home in Illinois, and this tumbler thing is amazing.

[@sandsoftime29]

I was looking into getting a tumbler and your review has convinced me this is a good option. thank you for the time and the videos, they are very informative and a great help.

[@Falcon-xk6lb]

THANK YOU for considering the needs of the old and disabled in this review. I wish others did too.

[@pennycarrier1]

Thanks for reviewing this Mark. I looked at buying this at my local Bunnings and was lucky enough to have a staff member let me try turning the one they used in the plant section (for the dead plants) to see how hard it was. (I'm 71, petite and not very strong). I found it too difficult to turn (both chambers were full) so decided against it. I already have the Tumbleweed compact 140L composter (made of metal) but it has exactly the same problems, the screws all go rusty (they have sent me a new set but they rusted too) and you can't empty it easily, definitely not into a wheelbarrow or garden cart, and have to stick your hands in to empty it out. Its also hard to turn for an older person so I'm keen to see which one you try next

[@heatherhickman734]

I found the hand crank too cumbersome. I place my hands into the "wells" just below the doors and shove downward. When it picks up some momentum, I grad into the next wells. I'm 60 and have back and neck injuries, but I found i manageable. Yep, it was slow to start moving once it was completely filled. But I got to work up to that, since I started with smaller amounts.

[@fifigirl8208]

Hi Mark Instead of using pallets inbetween each bay try using corrugated iron inbetween using 4 star pickets or tomato stakes 2 at back 2 at front slide iron inbetween. So when turning into next bay you can slide out the iron and saves lifting up and over. Saves the back n time. Cheers

[@KKumarIndy]

I loved how you were so happy seeing that finished compost... it really showed compost is gardeners gold!

[@krazytroutcatcher]

I like the idea of a tumbler. I’ve been using my cement mixer from when I did work on the house and garden constructions.

[@SeattlePioneer]

Repurposing what you already have is A+ frugality!

[@dlafery2123]

We bought one of these a couple of weeks ago to handle our kitchen scraps. We plan on setting up a three compartment system with pallet boards, like you have and use that for plant waste and dried leaves. We were worried about rodents getting into our compost so thought the enclosed tumbler would be better for kitchen scraps. You are right about it being a bear to assemble. It took my husband over 2 hours to put the tumbler together with my help; a fully assembled drum would be awesome were we to get another. All in all, we love the tumbler. I have it close to my gardening shed so I'm able to give it a few turns with one hand everyday.

[@JoanGeiger]

I bought the exact one and after watching your video which was so very helpful about the rusty screws, that I will spray them with black Rust- Oleum after putting the chamber together. Very informative and honest in your review, Thanks

[@danielkelly234]

really appreciated your evaluation on the Maize compost tumbler, allI ask from anybody is honesty and I believe thats what youropinions are.

[@gemfyre855]

My parents have had one of these for quite a few years now (at least 5) and it's looking a bit worn but still works well. They have a suburban block with a couple of veggie patches and other garden beds.

[@deathbycognitivedissonance5036]

Very realistic and honest review. Ty. I experienced everything you dealt with as well.

[@johndifrancisco3642]

Great review! Thank you. They do the same with stainless steel grills. They fall apart for the same reason, the screws and guts rust out

[@Pamela.B]

Winner! 🏆Best musical score for a composting video. Thank you !

[@McDowallManor]

Good fair dinkum review. Pros and cons. Thanks mate.

[@Selfsufficientme]

Thanks Andy! :)

[@stantutak5579]

You're a ripper bloke Mark

[@Lengsel7]

AVE?

[@donteven5712]

@@Lengsel7 ?

[@Lengsel7]

@@donteven5712 kzbin.info/www/bejne/nKaTp2ave8iJpJY

[@bluerockcomputingllc4143]

Good quality and good objective info. The Maze compost tumbler turned out to be a good proof of concept. Sometimes that's all we want to know before going whole-hog and spending lots of money on something just to find out it wasn't worth the money and effort. Thanks for taking the time to share your ideas.

[@womanofsubstance8735]

It looks like you could set the thing up on 2 rows of cement "cinder" blocks to raise it to a better height.

[@rvswansonable]

I avoid clicking affiliate links because most reviews are just cash grabs. This one was awesome. Thoroughly enjoyed your review mate.

[@arishmarycanada]

Beautiful Video, it's so nice to watch you tell everyone everything, you break it down greatly. Love the personal intimacy with the camera and your visitors. And I absolutely love your accent and mannerisms. I don't care who knows it, but you are so cute Mr. Thanks for sharing these great videos. Oh, yes, and the production is nice also, clearly hearing you, seeing you, No shaking or wobbling, and it's just great. I hope to buy one of those barrels also one day, just for fun.. 💋

[@VoiceofAustralia]

I have a rechargeable battery operated garden blower which I use to blow air into my Reynolds Compost tumbler. That takes a few minutes weekly and makes a huge difference to the time to compost. Just poke it in to the heap and blow air for a few minutes, close the lid, turn a couple of times, blow air in for a few minutes. Helps to get the stuff that sticks to the walls off too.

[@alanmurphy4931]

I have one, very happy with it, my handle broke Maze sent out a new handle and crank gear works so much better, makes beautiful compost, I notice you and just about every one that makes a video on composting just throw in large bits of scraps, I choop mine up (a bit time consuming but the efforts worth it) it breaks down and composts much better, I do the same for my worm farms. . . . . Al

[@martysgarden]

The good old compost Tumbler. I was able to pick up a secondhand one cheaply, same type. I actually found lots of my compost worms found their way in there, so I use it just for household scraps. Those bush Turkeys, glad I don't have them around where I live now,,they used to always destroy my microgreens trays. The buggers would jump up onto the table where they grew,,had to net them off. Thanks for your run down on yours. Like you I don't overload,,,gets too heavy and won't turn. Great video to get people into recycling their own waste instead of going into the bin. Awesome to see your channel doing so well too Mark,,Top Stuff,,go the Aussies! Happy Gardening Marty Ware

[@louistart1173]

You could put all kinds of waste in there 💩

[@seandepoppe6716]

Thanks. The wife is trying to push me to get one. Then I showed her the 3 bay compost that I learned as a child. *mind blown!!!* she thought it was for nothing. Just a heap taking up garden space. Ill give it to her for offering up support and suggestions. Otherwise i wouldn't have found your channel 😎

[@randallan8158]

Rand in San Diego. California, USA. I use a compost tumbler for my garden. I can't seem to build up the heat traditionally to rapidly compost the greens, but a few years ago, some worms got into the compost bins and multiplied. There are now thousands of worms in the composter and they can completely compost everything in 6 months. When I empty the compost bin, I leave enough of the compost, (with many worms) and by the next six months, I have finished compost and thousands of worms again. Of course the worms in the compost get added to the garden, and when I dig the soil I get plenty of annoyed worms.

[@keith4154]

A really fair and balanced review. I had been thinking about getting one. It looks like a good product but seems it may have durability issues. I agree the handle looks like it would be the first component that might be a problem , and the cheap perishable fixings swayed our decision not buy one. With lock down seeming endless we have decided to make our own to stay busy at home.

[@TheThor2745]

l watched the video approx 7 months and now I have my first load of compost ready to go and Mark's video at the time was very helpful and spot-on with all of the suggestions that he made. I did find that using the 8 vents on it helped greatly when it came to the different weather conditions, basically close the vents when it's raining and open them when it's sunny to get all of the microbes going.... A bigger tumbler composter bin, would definetely be better too in hindsight. Cheers

[@danielleaf9146]

7 months and the compost is ready? Thks

[@waltersherwood6234]

Excellent introduction and an interesting pros and cons. My composter is a plastic drum with a cover and it rotates around a spindle in the middle. End over end till the compost is finished. The cover acts as the collection tray.

[@Selfsufficientme]

Thanks Walter glad you enjoyed the intro! Cheers :)

[@fitzyholden1036]

Different time but when I was a kid in far north Qld we ate the bush turkeys. Not great but not bad, and solved the problem.

[@peterforsythe3643]

I’ve got a compost tumbler and it’s *fantastic*. No complaints. One very similar to the Maze reviewed here. They’re the way to go!

[@gregspark1060]

The handle on our maze composter died after only 6 months , we contacted maze and they sent a new improved stronger handle to us at no cost. Excellent value for money compost tumbler and terrific back up from maze,

[@dearsarge8551]

So I watched this video a few years back. Fast forward to a few weeks ago. I was looking for a compost tumbler online with Home Depot. I ordered the Maze without realizing it was the same one I had seen you review awhile back because it looked sturdier than the other crank turned model they were offering. There have been several improvements icluding an included wheeled cart that tucks nicely under the unit for harvesting finished compost. After I started assembling it, I kept thinking "this looks familiar". After I saw it was an Austalian company the light bulb finally went off!

[@Dee.C]

I have the Miracle-Gro Large Dual Chamber composter and as you mentioned turning is an issue when it gets full and heavy. The center rod that runs between the two is a little iffy because it starts to bow in the middle a bit when the chambers get fuller and fuller. It has been in operation about 3 months now and is composting a little faster than the pallet made bins are . I will keep using it and in the future , as you said, get a better system . This was a gift , so no complaints. For the cost they paid , it does well for me in my garden. I do need to have one of the stronger , more able bodied fellas turn it for me . I am disabled and I like that you do mention that composters need to take us into consideration . We love to garden too .

[@American_Heathen]

Love my tumbler composter. Durning the winter I throw kitchen scraps in there and durning the nice weather. Grass clippings , paper and what else is out there

[@nicolaj3294]

Hi Mark, we bought one of these about a year ago and our assessment would be the same as yours. Works well if you don't overload it and some of the fittings particularly the handle/ratchet system feels a bit flimsy and not longlasting. Also agree with you about emptying the compost, I had to get my hands in and scoop out too but not a huge issue. Good system for a small yard.

[@Selfsufficientme]

Hi Nicola, yeah I agree with you that not overloading is the key to keep this unit going for longer. Cheers :)

[@bobjackson4720]

I bought a couple of food grade 200 litre steel drums and cut doors into them bought hinges and sliding bolts. Mounted them on a bit of galvanised tube and a timber frame. Cost about 45 AUD each. So far looking good.

[@michealsmith1620]

If this wasn’t a cool video because of the restoration, it’s a super cool video to see your son playing it after you’ve restored it ❤

[@betterfuture09]

I've had a joraform compost tumbler for many years, it's the best one on the market, at least in Norway. Extremely durable(metal) with good insulation.

[@betterfuture09]

@Dania Botello I've had it for 8 years now, starting to be quite rusty in some places, holding together alright for now. Maybe it will have 2-3 more years of "life" in it.

[@phh.8393]

This is my favorite gardening yt channel.

[@quirtevans1977]

I turned my old black poly truck-bed tool box into a compost bin. I set it on blocks over by the garden. Sealed and weather proof, two sides each with its own locking lid and my neighbors think I store my garden fertilizer and tools in it. Hiding in plain sight. When one side is full I start loading the other. I use it mostly for kitchen scraps, I have a open compost pile for garden and yard waist. It has worked very will for me.

[@Selfsufficientme]

Good one great idea! Cheers :)

[@DovidM]

That’s a good idea. Neighbors think that compost bins will draw rats to the neighborhood and smell bad. You are operating under their radar.

[@tobalzz1]

Hey not much of a Gardner but i love your attitude. you are the only garden person i subscribe to. Keep being you man.

[@darthmicrobius]

As I was assembling my Maze, I noticed the wobbly crank handle you showed in video; I tightened the two screws that connects the handle to the cog, which reduced the wobble.

[@szymczyk77]

That review was aMAZEing, thanks a lot! I actually bought this model after watching this review and I’m pretty happy so far.

[@gillianbc]

I use lidded plastic dustbins with holes cut in the bottom. I just tip them over periodically and roll them around on the floor. Harder work than a handle, but only about £12 each.

[@mariamalacria6076]

Thanks, I’ve had all the problems you mentioned. Wish I’d watched your video before I purchased mine 😵‍💫 but you’ve given me ideas on how to use it better. Thank you 🙏

[@terryjohnson2093]

Nice review. I just finished one i made from a food-grade barrel. Barrel lays on top of 4 inverted 4" wheels on casters, on a stand. Cost about $45 with the treated wood for the stand. wheelbarrow fits easily underneath

[@CanadianAquarian]

Terry Johnson treated wood means the chemicals leach into your compost and “poison” your compost thus your food...not organic, but perhaps better than nothing?

[@terryjohnson2093]

@@CanadianAquarian It sits on a stand of treated wood. The wood has no contact with the compost. No leaching, no poison. Still good, still organic. Did you read the whole post?

[@KeithOutWest]

Nice work! What did you do for a "door"?

[@terryjohnson2093]

@@KeithOutWest I used a jig saw to cut out a rectangle about 10"x12". Used a bit of scrap piano hinge and some dollar store slide-close gate hardware. I had some left over lengths of 2" angled aluminum so I attached 2 pieces on the inside, with pop rivets through the side of the barrel, to help with the turning. If you do not give the stuff inside something to "stop" against it tends to slide inside instead of tumble. Really pleased with the results. It should last for years. I may put up an Instructables on it.

[@CaptBeefCake]

love your honest reviews. This video actually encouraged me to go find DIY barrel composters. A quick search finds many options worth looking at.

[@bublhed]

I have the same composter. I did a lot of research before deciding on this model. I like that the vents are not always open. Some models don’t have the ability to close the vents. I agree that the dual chambers are helpful. Amazon feedback helps. At the time I ordered a free cart was included. It’s very handy but not sturdy. I’ve packed it completely full before and it does get pretty hard to turn. I’m just careful not to try turning it during the winter because I’m afraid the handle will break! I’m only comfortable using cardboard in it because other papers may have chemicals I don’t want in my soil.

[@inharmonywithearth9982]

Those bush turkeys are amazing beautiful birds! They would be worth composting for. That made the video for me.

[@kenfrutiger2471]

Hi Mark, It's Ken in Southwest Oklahoma, in the U.S. I like the way the base is designed on your tumbler because you can add 4 concrete blocks on each end you can raise the tumbler up so you don't have to bend over to work with it. You could probably raise it up enough to get your wheel borrow under it. The other tumblers on Amazon have a leg all the way across the front and back which would not allow a borrow under it. Try using the concrete blocks, 2 on the ground on each end will raise the tumbler about 8 inches if that's not enough put 2 more on top of the first 2 on each end. That should raise it a total of about 16 inches.If you have any concerns about the blocks falling over just put a couple rebar or pipe stakes on each side of the blocks!

[@ZsOtherBrother]

Thanks for the review, great work, as always. I like the fact that in recent years things such as tumbler composters have become commercially available to everyone... even if some of them are WAY overpriced, (sorry, but $2475 for a 400L tumbler [10:09] seems a bit steep to me). And even if I personally like to make my own "stuff", and have seen a home made tumbler that was made from a used plastic barrel and a few other scraps that probably works just as well, for next to nothing, it's still nice to see that basic tools for "personal ecology" have made their way into mainstream industry.

[@cyn4rest]

Thanks, Mark. You make some excellent points. This will help me as I shop for one. I'm a newbie gardener in many areas. Thanks again. Hello from So California USA

[@spazzychalk]

You can reinforce that handle by filling in the honeycomb with epoxy or liquid nail or what is cheap

[@hollydimig3998]

Nice to have a tumbler review. I’ve been wondering myself about these. Thanks!

[@DrBob-vn5ni]

Just bought this and then saw your excellent video. Glad I made the right choice.

[@mrc3458]

Good review. I'm in the process of making my own tumbling composter out of a 55 gal plastic barrel. I'm using stainless hardware. I have changed the design a couple times since starting the project. Adding or taking away parts of it after watching reviews like yours. Total price will not be cheap (approx. $250). It will be better built than any you can buy and should last 10+ years. So, it will pay for itself... I had an emergency come up and had to put the project on hold but should have it in operation by the spring... Thanks for the reviews, I've been enjoying your videos for a couple years now. Even though your halfway around the world from me, I still get good value here in Texas.

[@kennethhoke2584]

Hi Mark. I used my shredded paper as a mulch around my peppers a few years ago. It was most productive peppers I've ever grown. Plan to use again this year. My theory is the reflected light under the leaves turbocharged the photosynthesis.

[@VaryaEQ]

Hmm, not sure how scientifically accurate that is, but it'd make sense, especially with chillies being native to dryer, hotter climates... 🤔🤔

[@deannastevens1217]

This looks good. But when I had a ComposTumbler that worked itWAS FABULOUS!!! I Loved it!. Easier construction and a good height for the larger one. Easy to follow instructions for go excellent compost. Someone 'Moved it" for me and broke it... It was after the warranty. they have an excellent warranty too. I just didn't have the $ for the piece that was broke. But I am saving up for another one right now. I have a New Mantis tiller in the extra large size and I am raring to go!!1 Thank you for such excellent information and INSPIRATION!!!

[@bnwww]

Thanks Mark! Based on your review I bought a Jora "Big Pig" tumbler (medium-sized brother to the 400L one you showed in this video).

[@denisebrady6858]

Great review Thank you Mark- I have been waiting for this as I was going to buy a tumbler but being older I now know that one would not suite me- so very very helpful. Cheers Denise - Geebung Brisbane

[@Selfsufficientme]

Great to know the review helped you out Denise! Cheers :)

[@xeroxene]

I've been thinking about getting a small tumbler for years. 160L version is only $99. No handle. I reckon it's worth a shot. Thanks for the video.

[@youroutdoormatenate4528]

I got the $99 version. Works well however I found that I over-filled with grass clippings too quickly and had to pull it all out again to load straw and mix more thoroughly. In hindsight I personally believe it would work better without the middle barrier as the smaller version filled extremely quickly. However without the barrier it would work really well being used as a single large compartment. Like the larger one Mark showed, it is a bit of a pain to unload - too low for a wheelbarrow and does not like just falling out. Well worth it though if like me you are just on a small block (1/4 acre). Though I will mention I have just completely emptied it and build a typical compost pile using 4x recycled pallets picked up from the side of the road in an industrial estate (make sure HT is branded on the side). Will only be using the tumbler now to compliment the pile once it is filled and breaking down. Hope that helped in any way.

[@xeroxene]

@@youroutdoormatenate4528 Thanks for the info. I'm mostly looking at a tumbler just for kitchen scraps and vegetable garden waste. I wouldn't really be using it for lawn clippings other than a few handfuls every now and then. I've got a separate compost pile I use for mowing and leaves etc. Low garden trolley would fit under the tumbler I reckon. My local Bunnings doesn't have the $99 tumbler on display so I'll just have to buy it and find out for myself.

[@victormorrison441]

I do not know why I watch your videos but I do and like it

[@rickdearman9992]

Place I worked for once gave away old rinsed polyethylene barrels (55 gallons plastic drums ) I cut the top and bottom off them and use them like the upright composters. If I'd known about tumblers I would have made a tumbler one!

[@haroldfloyd5518]

I’ve got a cheap 2 chamber (no ratcheting handle) from Amazon. It works, and it was something like $55. It probably will last no more than 3 years but it was a good cheap test of concept.

[@williamnewman845]

Black gold of gardening...that is every gardeners desire.

[@robertcroft2458]

Always appreciate you honest input on the products you review.

[@jimbaldacchino3755]

Hi Mark I just bout a MAZE Yes very fiddly to assemble but it is very struddie when its fully put together I suppose that depending as to where in Australia you live the climate of the area governs the decomposition time of the waste

[@3929Cindy]

Very good review. Very detailed. Pointed out things I didn’t think about like galvanized screws. Thank you.

[@ryanarmishaw3305]

LOL - such a dramatic opening scene. Haha - you're fantastic!

[@CoroaEntertainment]

I did the math a few years ago when our family was deciding on whether or not to get a compost tumbler. For our needs (and I'll bet it would be the same for most people that have a small backyard garden), buying compost is probably a better/easier option. For example, the local garden nursery and hardware stores in my area sell 30-60 litre bags of compost for $4 to $7. A cubic yard (a big bag) is around $100 delivered to my home. You then get $10 back once the big bag is empty and returned. Both methods allow someone to use the compost right away instead of waiting 2+ months before it's ready. I can see why some people would want to use a compost tumbler, but imo (for most people) it's a waste of time and money. With that said, we do use some of the kitchen "scraps" in our garden, like used coffee grounds and tea bags, and crushed egg shells. Other that that, everything else goes into our bi-weekly green bin for the city to recycle.

[@ltlbnsgarden]

Hello friend! I love watching your videos, as every video done , your confidence is evident and I love it! You have evolved so much , from when I found your channel. Congratulations on all your continued success my friend, I truly mean it. As far as the tumbler, I really appreciate your honesty. Hope your having an amazing week 🤗

[@nicolemiller7022]

You should review for a living or side job. You're extremely thurough and honest. Thanks

[@Imwright720]

I have a tumbler from Costco called Lifetime. It’s 4 - 5 years old and still works. The closing mechanism is regular steel and long rusted. I just repaired it. I pack mine full and it gets heavy. I don’t believe you actually get good compost this way but if you then add it to your worm bin then you have magic.

[@AtSeaStill]

This is impeccable timing. I just bought one!

[@HealthyandLovingLife]

Do you still like yours?

[@AtSeaStill]

@@HealthyandLovingLife Sorry this is a late reply! I do still like it! I think it would be perfect for a small household or a renter. I wish I had something bigger though!

[@serenemountain6769]

you guys know that the Earth can do composting for free ! without using a tumbler or constant mixing right ? How to do Natural Composting: Step I. Gather Biological Wastes ( without bones, meat or seeds) live Leafs, what ever you want Vegetable food Wastes ( no roots , it can germinate ) Step II. Cover the Earth with the biological wastes , that you want to feed with nutrients Step III. Cover it With Dried Plant\wood Wastes, Hay, Leafs, Wood wastes "small peaces, very small", Cover it well, it will prevent flies and such ! Step IV. Poke some holes for it to breath from time to time, if you see flies, close them again ! when you see it flattening, repeat the process, let the living soil do the compost for you, it will never run out of nutrients this way !

[@AtSeaStill]

@@serenemountain6769 Yes! Great tips! Unfortunately, there are places where HOAs & cities won't allow you to have a compost pit or pile. It has to be in containers. It's unfortunate, but kinda common.

[@serenemountain6769]

@@AtSeaStill my tip is valid if your containers are outdoors , even if you live in an apartment ! If they are indoors i advise you to buy compost from a store !

[@dariodrz]

Lovely looking compost. I am not pro plastic tools around the garden, but hey, you're doing great work here. Not to mention all the plastic you're avoiding by not living according to the system

[@silverbohosoul]

Mine arrived today...will attempt to assemble tomorrow. I bought the one with the stainless steel screws. Thanks Mark, great review! I'm vegie gardening on a small scale so this should suit me I think... till I can move to a bigger space. Wish me luck with the assembly lol

[@lg4626]

Awesome review. Thank you so much. I ordered one before buying and then watched your review. Good to know that it is a good product.

[@altha-rf1et]

Found one curb side the other day nothing at all wrong with it starting my own compost pile now got some leave fresh grass cuttings studying up on several ways of doing it

[@alanjacobsen3507]

I have had the compost Tumblr for years and I love it. Like you with the learning curve I would have bought the double chamber if I was to do it again for the very reasons you mentioned. But I have found after the two weeks that the car post wasn’t quite done but kind of by accident one fall I emptied the compost into some trash bags and stacked them and overwintered it that way. The next spring when I got it to put into the garden it was like black gold. As for me I like composting in the Tumblr.

[@joycethorn2313]

Mark you're a handy sort of fellow. Get a 44 gal drum, weld the lid on, cut a door flap in the side, cut hole through centre bottom and top and put pipe through wit a handle one end for turning. Cost? Negligible. 😊

[@jokinplaysgames]

Man. I love this channel. Lol. Recently found it. And I dig it I live in the US and prolly inspired me to take this hobby seriously.

[@brianminghella3312]

They work but poor design and lack of integrated structural elements really let down in this case a concept that does have merit. I think it needs to be bigger but not in diameter but length. Larger doors and integral ribs (like a water tank) so that its strong enough without being to heavy. In point of fact a smaller rain water tank set up on four inflatable ball bearing tyres would give you heaps of capacity. If then it had an archimedian screw inside to tumble the compost and mix it PLUS auger it out when finished and you would have a real pro set up. Anyway, great honest review.