Can I compost paper tissues?

The short answer is yes, because the chemical basis of napkins, paper towels and toilet paper is cellulose, a natural polysaccharide, a key component of the cell wall of plants. Because of its natural composition, these paper products are able to decompose naturally under the action of cellulose, an enzyme that is produced by various members of microorganisms.

How do I compost wipes?

To compost paper tissues and towels correctly, we recommend following the following rules:

• Don’t throw a large number of tissues into the composter at one time. If you do need a lot, make sure that the organic mass is balanced: distribute the tissues between the layers of compost, mix them in, this will make fermentation more efficient.
• If possible, shred the wipes into small pieces.
• Do not compost wipes with traces of feces and inorganic substances: paint, petrol, car oils, etc.
• Do not compost wet wipes because in addition to cellulose, they may contain synthetic fibers and a fair amount of undesirable chemicals: moisturizing lotions, detergents, fragrances. However, you can compost any wet wipes that are labeled “home compostable.”
• Do not compost antibacterial wipes or those that contain isopropyl alcohol, as these have a detrimental effect on the microflora in your composter.

So, thin-walled cellulose products that are not chemically treated and not contaminated with inorganic substances can be composted. The main thing is to add enough bokashi so that the fermentation process is as efficient as possible.