Last updated on October 4th, 2023
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There are various tools that you can use to aerate your compost but, none is as efficient as the tool that has been specifically designed to carry out this task. Purchasing a compost aerator tool for your compost bin makes the whole process faster and you do not have to get your hands dirty. Finding the best compost aerator tool is straightforward as there aren’t many features to work with.
We have gathered a few of the notable aerators currently on the market for you to look at. From these products, you will be able to identify a compost aerator tool that will effectively accelerate composting by distributing oxygen, bacteria and moisture to help speed up the composting process but at the right price. Because they are such simple tools, we won’t take much of your time. Let us proceed with the review and you can decide what model you think is right for you.
Our ‘Best Pick’ happens to be the Dolmen Compost Mixer and Aerator is more than a basic aerator tool. For a fair price, you get a firm galvanised steel compost mixer that you can use for years to come and the design is so simple yet effective. It’s quite long at 1.25m, making it perfect for even the taller compost bins and will get to the bottom of things for creating a good mix.
BEST PICK
The top 4 compost mixers that we reviewed and included in our top picks
- Dolmen Compost Mixer and Aerator – BEST PICK
- Primrose Compost Aerator – RUNNER UP
- Darlac DP788 Compost Aerator – BEST USER FRIENDLY PICK
- Burgon&Ball RHS Endorsed Flexi Compost Aerator
RUNNER UP
BEST USER FRIENDLY PICK
Top 4 Compost Aerator Reviews
These compost aerator tools have been made to fit the job description. They vary in terms of design but in the end, the decision as to which is the best compost mixer belongs to you.
1. Dolmen Compost Mixer and Aerator
BEST PICK
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The Dolmen Compost Mixer and Aerator is made of galvanised steel and it is rigid enough to mix the compost without bending. Measuring 1.25m in length, this aerator tool is long enough to thoroughly mix the compost in your compost bin. All that you need to do is screw the tool into the compost and pull. By doing this, you shake the compost to introduce more air into the mixture and distribute the bacteria. This, in turn, allows the mixture to compose evenly, therefore, achieving the expected results. This tool is sold at an affordable price and it is made from steel ensuring that it serves you well for years to come.
Pros
- Measures 1.25m which is long enough to reach the bottom of most compost bins.
- Made from galvanised steel, therefore, rigid enough to work without bending.
- Easily screws into the compost allowing the even distribution of air, bacteria and moisture.
- Offers good value for money as it provides years of service.
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2. Darlac DP788 Compost Aerator
BEST USER-FRIENDLY PICK
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If you need a compost aerator that offers a bit more comfort for your hands then the Darlac Compost Aerator would suffice. This compost aerator is made of powder-coated steel to give it strength and also protect the tool from rust and corrosion. To make matters easier for you, this tool features a padded T-handle that reduces pressure on your shoulders and hands. You will be able to dig into the bin and aerate the mixture without hurting your back.
To operate this tool, you need to push it into the compost and start twisting. The retracted blades open pockets of air in the mixture once you start pulling. Repeat the process several times to ensure that the compost is thoroughly aerated. This model measures 31-inches long which means it may be limited when it comes to aerating compost in taller bins. However, if you have a small bin, this affordable tool will work just fine.
Pros
- Made of rigid steel that has been powder coated to provide durability.
- Comes with a padded T-handle to relieve pressure from the shoulders and back.
- Features retractable winged blades that create air pockets for the compost to decompose evenly.
- The handle features grooved padding to provide a firm hold.
- Sold at an affordable price, thus a convenient option on a budget.
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3. Burgon & Ball RHS Endorsed Flexi Compost Aerator
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The Burgon & Ball Flexi Compost Aerator is a simple aerator you get for light compost aeration. This aerator is made of a steel spike and an FSC T-handle that is guaranteed to provide some comfort as you work. The FSC approved wooden handle has a smooth finish so as to provide a comfortable grip as you work.
To get to the bottom of the compost, an aerator should have some length to work with. This aerator is about 104cm long if you include the handle, with about 100cm to work with you can easily get to the bottom of a standard compost bin. It may be challenging to get it through at first but once it is inside the compost, pull out the tool to introduce air into the mixture. This simple tool costs a bit more than a basic aerator but the value is in the years of service rendered.
It is also worth noting that the RHS endorse this tool and they will only endorse the very best tools which speak for themselves. The only reason we didn’t award this model our ‘Best Pick’ is because we think the handle on the Dolmen Compost Mixer and Aerator is a better design that should be easier to use.
Pros
- Endorsed by the RHS, which only the very best tools are.
- Created from strong steel metal spike and FSC certified wooden handle to create a durable tool.
- The aerator features a T-handle that provides adequate support whilst aerating the compost.
- It measures 1m long, this is an adequate length to get to the bottom of the compost bin.
- Pricey but will provide years of good service.
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4. Primrose Compost Aerator
RUNNER UP
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The Primrose Compost Aerator will not cost you much to purchase but it will surely deliver when called upon. This tool the same as the others is made from stainless steel which is known for its strength and immunity against rust/corrosion. The tool also features zinc-plated blades that makes it easier for the user to clean and maintain.
This tool is very simple to use. All that is needed is to insert the tool in the compost and pull it out. The blades unfold when you pull out, therefore, creating pockets of air needed for fast decomposition. The length of this compost aerator is 84cm which is an adequate length to work with. It has a short handle and therefore you may need to put your back into it. Overall an excellent choice for those looking for a more budget-friendly model.
Pros
- Made from stainless steel that is durable and immune to rust/corrosion.
- It features zinc plated blades that are easy to clean and maintain.
- The tool is a low maintenance unit that is easy to store.
- Provides 84cm of length to sink deep into the compost.
- Sold at a very affordable price.
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Buyer’s Guide
Because compost aerator is a simple tool, there aren’t many features to put to memory. They just need to be designed well enough to pierce through the compost and introduce air pockets and mix the compost up well, which is crucial to decomposition. The best compost mixer is one that you can use for years to come without succumbing to rust or corrosion so being made from quality material is the number one consideration.
Reasons to buy one
Why should you purchase a compost aerator tool? You could always use tools like shovels or forks but there are reasons as to why the aerator tool is the best.
- They are designed to get to the bottom of the compost which is difficult with a fork or spade ensuring that all the moisture and air is present for decomposition.
- They allow you to work without getting messy. Once you push the tool into the compost you can slowly move it out without splashing any of the liquid compost.
- Compost mixers with handles allow the user to work without straining their back or shoulders.
- They are easy to clean and maintain as they have no complex features that require repair.
- Because they are so easy to use, you can easily manage your compost, therefore, preventing the accumulation of odours.
Plunge or corkscrew
There are various designs of compost aerator tools on the market but the majority of them are categorised under plunge or corkscrew types.
Corkscrew aerator tools are shaped like a corkscrew as the name suggests. One needs to twist the tool into the compost and pull it out to introduce air into the compost and mix the compost. These tools are recommended for light compost mixing meaning that the compost material should not be too heavy to get through.
Plunge aerator tools usually come with blades that are retractable. The blades open wide when the aerator is pulled out to create the air pockets needed. These tools are more well-suited for compost that contains a lot of fibre. Because they mostly feature T- handles, they make it easy to push and pull the tool in and out of the compost without straining your muscles.
Durability
The material used to make the aerator will determine how long you are able to use it. Compost aerator tools sold on the market are made of steel or aluminium. In most cases, these materials have to be given protective coatings so that they are able to handle constant use without bending or rusting. If you have a large compost settle for compost mixer tools whose material is a bit thicker. This is because as you are twisting, pulling and plunging, the material is able to remain firm.
Length
It is important to consider the length of the compost aerator tool so that it is able to get to the bottom of the compost bin. Using a tool that is too short will leave some of the compost material without air, therefore, causing an uneven decomposition. If you are unsure, measure the height of your compost bins and compare it with the product description details of the tool.
Comfort
Some of us suffer from sore muscles, arthritis and other ailments that need some care. Using tools that are designed to keep your hands and muscles comfortable is advisable. Products such as the Darlac Compost Aerator provide comfortable handles that have grip. You can use it for some time without applying too much strain to your body.
Price
Decide how much you can spend before heading to the marketplace otherwise it is easy to get swayed. With compost aerator tools, being the most expensive doesn’t always mean it’s the best tool. You just need to pick one that does the job for you. Like always, it is advisable to check through customer reviews so that you can have an idea of the pros and cons of the tool.
Warranty
If you can get a brand that offers a warranty then run with it. A warranty will allow you to test the strength and functionality of the tool. If any problems arise, the warranty will be your ticket to getting a replacement or refund.
Final Conclusion
We believe that by now you are a compost aerator tool guru and we send you forth to select the best compost aerator tool you can find. Pass this information around and support others in finding the best compost mixer. Remember that mixing compost is a physically demanding job and if you are not strong enough for it, you may want to consider a tumbling compost bin instead, which is easily turned whenever required. Still, you are better off with a compost aerator tool than a fork.
From the products in our list, we thought the Dolmen Compost Aerator stood out from the rest with its unique handle design. Because the tool is made of rigid galvanised steel and will most likely serve you for a long time. It also offers excellent value for money despite it being one of the most expensive models. Many of the customers who have purchased this item totally agree with us through their positive reviews we have seen online during our research. Besides, it does offer you more length to work with compared to the others too which is an advantage. For a fair price, you get a quality tool that will keep you company in your compost journey.
Last update on 2024-04-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
