Composting Hair: A Guide to Sustainable Hair Disposal

Have you ever wondered what happens to all the hair that gets swept up at salons or discarded after a haircut? Most likely, it ends up in a landfill where it takes years to decompose. However, there is a more sustainable solution: composting hair. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of composting hair and provide a step-by-step guide on how to do it yourself.

The Benefits of Composting Hair

Composting hair has several benefits for both the environment and your garden. First and foremost, it reduces waste by diverting hair from landfills. Hair is a rich source of nitrogen, an essential nutrient for plants, making it an excellent addition to compost. It also improves soil structure, water retention, and aeration, which can lead to healthier plants and better yields.

In addition to its nutritional benefits, hair can also act as a natural pest repellent. Its strong scent repels deer, rabbits, and other critters that can damage your garden. Plus, it's entirely organic and non-toxic, making it safe for both humans and animals.

How to Compost Hair

Now that you know why composting hair is beneficial, let's get into the nitty-gritty of how to do it. Here are the steps:

Step 1: Collect Your Hair

The first step is to collect your hair. This can be done after a haircut, while brushing or styling your hair, or by asking your local salon if they can save their hair clippings for you. Make sure to remove any hair ties, clips, or other accessories before collecting.

Step 2: Prepare Your Compost Bin

Next, prepare your compost bin. You can use a traditional compost bin or make your own by drilling holes in a plastic container. Line the bottom with twigs or straw to improve drainage and airflow.

Step 3: Add Your Hair to the Compost Bin

Once you have collected enough hair, add it to the compost bin. It's best to mix it with other compostable materials like food scraps, leaves, and grass clippings to create a balanced compost pile. Make sure to chop or shred the hair into small pieces to speed up the decomposition process.

Step 4: Turn and Water Your Compost Pile

After adding your hair and other materials to the compost bin, you'll need to turn and water it regularly. Turning the compost pile every week or two helps aerate it, and water keeps it moist, which is essential for decomposition. Aim for a moisture level of around 50-60%.

Step 5: Harvest Your Compost

After several months, your compost should be ready to use. You'll know it's ready when it looks dark, crumbly, and smells earthy. Use it to fertilize your garden, potted plants, or even your lawn. Your plants will thank you!

Composting hair may seem like a small act, but it can have a big impact on the environment. By diverting hair from landfills and using it to fertilize plants, we're not only reducing waste, but we're also improving soil health and supporting a sustainable lifestyle. So next time you get a haircut, think twice before throwing away those locks. Composting hair is easy, affordable, and good for the planet.

Composting hair is an easy and sustainable way to dispose of hair.

organic gardening, sustainability, zero waste, soil health, eco-friendly products