Produce Baskets Put in Garbage Soiled Cardboard OK to Compost Soiled produce baskets made of cardboard or fiber may be placed in a compost pile. Ways to Reduce Buy Loose Produce Avoid unnecessary waste by opting for produce without packaging whenever possible. Bring your own cloth or mesh bags to the store or farmers’ market for loose produce. Ways to Reuse Return It to the Farmers’ Market Some vendors at farmers’ markets accept used containers, and many will reuse their own containers. Check at your farmers’ market to see if you can bring your produce baskets back. Repurpose the Container Reuse your produce basket as a storage container for items around your home.