Introduction
The Joseph Joseph Totem Compact 40L is an innovative waste separation and recycling unit designed to streamline your kitchen waste management. This compact system features two vertically arranged compartments, a removable food waste caddy, and an integrated odor filter, providing an efficient solution for general waste, recycling, and composting.
The Joseph Joseph Totem Compact 40L in Stone color, showcasing its sleek design.
Product Components
Your Joseph Joseph Totem Compact 40L unit includes the following:
- Main Unit: The outer casing with a lid.
- Upper Inner Bucket: 5.3-gallon (20L) capacity for general waste.
- Lower Inner Bucket: 5.3-gallon (20L) capacity for recycling, located in the multi-purpose drawer.
- Removable Food Waste Caddy: 0.8-gallon (3L) capacity with lid.
- Odor Filter: Carbon filter for odor control, located in the main lid.
- Liner Hooks: Integrated hooks within the inner buckets for securing trash liners.
- Breather Vents: Located in the inner buckets to facilitate easy liner removal.
Key components of the Joseph Joseph Totem system, highlighting the odor filter, compost caddy, and dual compartments.
Setup
- Unpack the Unit: Carefully remove all components from the packaging.
- Position Inner Buckets: Place the larger inner bucket into the top compartment of the main unit. The smaller inner bucket goes into the lower multi-purpose drawer.
- Install Odor Filter: Locate the odor filter compartment on the underside of the main lid. Insert the carbon filter into this compartment. This helps to absorb odors from the general waste.
- Place Food Waste Caddy: The removable food waste caddy can be stored inside the upper general waste compartment, the lower multi-purpose drawer, or placed on your kitchen countertop for easy access during food preparation.
Installation of the carbon odor filter into the lid for effective odor control.
Operating Instructions
General Waste Compartment (Top)
- To open the lid, gently press the release button or lift the handle.
- Fit a standard 5.3-gallon (20L) trash liner into the upper inner bucket. Use the integrated liner hooks to secure the bag and prevent it from slipping.
- The breather vents in the bucket sides help to create airflow, making it easier to remove a full liner.
Recycling Drawer (Bottom)
- Pull the lower drawer handle to slide out the recycling compartment. The drawer is designed with wheels for smooth operation.
- The lower inner bucket can be used with a single liner for mixed recycling or with two smaller bags, utilizing the integrated hooks, to separate different types of recyclables (e.g., paper and plastic).
- Push the drawer back into the main unit until it clicks securely into place.
Food Waste Caddy
- The 0.8-gallon (3L) caddy is ideal for collecting food scraps. It can be placed on your countertop or stored within either of the main compartments.
- Use the caddy's lid to contain odors.
- Empty the caddy regularly into a compost bin or designated collection point.
The Totem Compact in use, demonstrating access to both the top waste compartment and the lower recycling drawer.
Using the removable food waste caddy for convenient disposal of food scraps.
Official Joseph Joseph video demonstrating the features and use of the Totem waste separation unit.
Maintenance
Cleaning
- Wipe the exterior of the unit with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- The inner buckets and food waste caddy are removable and can be washed with warm soapy water. Ensure they are thoroughly dry before returning them to the unit.
- For stainless steel versions, use a stainless steel cleaner to maintain the finish and prevent fingerprints.
Liner Replacement
- When a liner is full, unhook it from the inner bucket and lift it out. The breather vents assist in this process.
- Replace with a new liner, ensuring it is securely fastened using the integrated hooks. Joseph Joseph custom-fit liners (IW7 for 40L) are available separately, but standard liners can also be used.
Odor Filter Replacement
- The carbon odor filter should be replaced every 3 months, or sooner if odors persist.
- To replace, open the main lid, remove the old filter from its compartment, and insert a new one. Replacement odor filters are available separately.
Troubleshooting
- Lid Not Opening/Closing Smoothly: Check for any obstructions around the hinge mechanism or inside the top compartment. Ensure the unit is placed on a level surface.
- Persistent Odors: Replace the carbon odor filter. Ensure inner buckets and the food waste caddy are cleaned regularly. Use appropriate liners and avoid overfilling.
- Trash Liner Slipping: Ensure the liner is correctly secured using the integrated hooks within the inner buckets. Consider using Joseph Joseph custom-fit liners for optimal fit.
- Lower Drawer Sticking: Check for any debris or obstructions in the drawer's runners or under the unit. Ensure the drawer is aligned correctly when pushing it back in.
Specifications
| Brand | Joseph Joseph |
| Model | Totem Compact 40L |
| Capacity | 40 liters (10.5 US Gallons) total (2 x 20L compartments) |
| Food Waste Caddy Capacity | 3 liters (0.8 US Gallons) |
| Color | Stone |
| Material | Aluminum, Plastic, Stainless Steel |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 11.81" x 14.41" x 29.92" (closed) / 41.3" (lid open) |
| Item Weight | 7 kg |
| Special Feature | Odor control |
Detailed dimensions of the Totem Compact 40L unit.
Warranty Information
The Joseph Joseph Totem Compact 40L comes with a 10-year guarantee against manufacturing defects. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For specific terms and conditions, refer to the official Joseph Joseph website or contact customer support.
Support
For further assistance, product registration, or to purchase replacement parts and accessories (such as custom-fit liners or odor filters), please visit the official Joseph Joseph website:
You may also refer to the User Guide (PDF) available on the product's Amazon page for additional details.
