Compost or Not

Can I Compost Nail clippings?

Yes

Nail clippings can be composted.

What to Know

  • Nail clippings are made of keratin, a protein that can be broken down by microorganisms in the compost
  • They decompose slowly and add small amounts of nitrogen to the compost

Tips

  • Scatter nail clippings thinly throughout the compost pile rather than clumping them together
  • Mix them with other nitrogen-rich materials
  • Avoid adding nail clippings with nail polish or other chemical treatments