No, unfortunately you cannot use sawdust to replace wood chips or paper. Wood chips are larger and thicker in structure, which creates space between the waste for proper air circulation. Sawdust is too fine, and wood shavings are not thick enough to achieve that same effect. Furthermore, both lack sufficient water-absorbent properties, making them unsuitable for replacing paper entirely.
How do wood chips contribute to the composting process?
Wood chips create space between the waste, which in turn promotes good air circulation. This air circulation provides the bacteria with oxygen, resulting in an aerobic composting process. If the air circulation is not optimal, the HOTBIN will not heat up properly and the compost will smell foul.
If you do decide to use wood shavings or sawdust, you will likely block the aeration of the bin because the particles are so fine that they will clump together. Below, we discuss the results of using wood chips and sawdust in the HOTBIN.
I don't want to add wood chips
By adding wood chips, you avoid having to turn or mix the compost heap. This accelerates the process and saves you a lot of work.
A lack of wood chips and/or shredded paper is one of the most common reasons why the HOTBIN does not reach the right temperature. Insufficient wood chips mean the contents are not aerated well enough, while a lack of shredded paper can lead to the contents becoming too wet.
If you do not add wood chips or a suitable alternative, it is unlikely that the HOTBIN will reach temperature, and therefore, good compost will not be produced. In short: wood chips or a good alternative are necessary for good and fast compost.
Can sawdust replace the role of paper?
No. Although sawdust has some water-absorbent properties, it is not sufficient to regulate the moisture level in the HOTBIN. Therefore, always use shredded paper instead of sawdust. Additionally, the fine nature of sawdust causes it to clump together when it gets damp, which compromises good air circulation.
Are you having trouble finding enough paper? Read our article with tips and alternatives on how to obtain shredded paper.
Can I compost pet waste?
Only once the HOTBIN is at the proper temperature (40-60°C) can you potentially add small amounts of wood shavings and sawdust. It is essential that you mix this well with wood chips and paper to prevent clumping, which would restrict air circulation.
