Kitchen compost containers can endure indefinitely if properly cared for. Typically, this entails washing them out after emptying them, either by hand or in the dishwasher. If you purchase a bin that requires liners, as some do, you must also ensure that you maintain those stocked. If you are composting with your bins, you may also get tools to measure the pH of the soil, as well as its temperature and moisture levels. Worm bins require significantly more upkeep, and worms might feel like a cross between a pet and a household duty. In addition to caring for the worms, you must ensure that the worm bins are well-maintained and in the proper location for the worms to grow. Vermicomposting isn't rocket science, but it might be intimidating for newcomers.