What Is The 5 Best Composting Toilet For Off Grid Living?

What is the best composting toilet for off grid living? In recent years there has been an enormous demand for composting toilets. Many people are interested in an off-grid toilet for small boats, homes, or RVs.

A few years back, I put in a composting toilet in my tiny house. I quickly realized that composting toilets was extremely easy, and smell-free, and was a good decision for self-sufficiency and sustainability.

It’s not necessary to build a DIY composting toilet anymore. There are many composting toilets that are made to look like “normal” toilets and are practically impossible to make use of. Certain models have interesting features.

If you’re seeking to build a composting toilet for off-grid living, then you’re lucky. There aren’t many alternatives for portable composting toilets on the market. However, those that exist are excellent.

This peculiar type of toilet makes use of aerobic bacteria to digest human waste. It stores it in tidy, easy-to-clean packaging.

The toilet is a way to separate liquids from solids and breaks down solid waste by combining organic material and bacteria into manure.

Although you may dispose of the rubbish in a garbage bag, if local regulations permit the use of it, it is also put in your garden, if you choose to do so. This guide will give you shopping tips and reviews of the best composting toilets available below.

Top picks for the best composting toilet for off-grid living

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you’re not familiar with this, take a look at our article about how composting toilets work.

What Is The Best Composting Toilet For Off Grid Living?

Top 5 off grid toilets to consider:

  1. The Nature’s Head Composting Toilet – Top option for an off-grid composting toilet
  2. Separett 9215 Composting Toilet – The best composting toilet that has an electric rotator
  3. Thinktank Composting Toilet – The best toilet that is tightly sealed
  4. OGO Composting Toilet – Best Budget
  5. Stansport Portable Camp Toilet – Only an emergency option

Now you’ve learned something about the top composting toilets. Here are some in-depth explanations to consider for off-grid toilets based on our in-house expert research.

Keep Reading…

Nature’s Head Composting Toilet

Nature's Head Self Contained Composting Toilet with Close Quarters Spider Handle Design
  • No one - and I mean no one - will beat my customer service and individual...
  • Easy to install by any reasonably handy person.
  • Absolutely No Odor. No Maintenance. 5 Year Warranty.
  • Huge Capacity. 2 people using full time will empty every 4-6 weeks. Easy empty...
  • A vast improvement over older composting toilet designs. This one works!

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The composting toilet was originally intended for boats and RVs. Therefore, it is compact and small in size.

Many people are using it for their homes and cabins today. It is possible to get around 90 times the use before you empty it. You’ll need to clean the bladder each throughout the day.

It is fully self-contained and has a dual-chamber system. One chamber is designed for urine while the second chamber is designed for solids.

How to Use

For the composting toilet to be used you must first add peat moss (or other dry carbon material) to the chamber that holds the solids. When someone is #2, turn the handle for the agitator on the other side. The handle rotates the waste inside the chamber, ensuring it remains in aeration. There is no need to do anything following urination.

Installation and Electricity

You’ll need to connect your outside vent. If you’re planning to install the toilet in an outside space it is just a matter of connecting with the pipe for venting to one leading out to the outside. In the indoor space, it could be slightly more difficult in particular if you plan to put the toilet in a location with no plumbing venting. But, it might simply mean making a tiny opening in the wall for an exhaust pipe to be taken out of.

It is also necessary to connect your toilet to an electrical source. The electric power will be used to power the fan in the vent. If the power is cut off the composting toilet will continue to function. However, some smells might occur. Most toilets that compost (even with vents) isn’t odorless. However, to be wise, you may need to flush it more frequently in the event of power outages.

Notes: There is just one composting toilet model from Nature’s Head. You can however get it with the “standard handle” or a “spider handle.” The difference is that the handle with the spider takes up less space to the side, which is ideal if you’re installing your toilet in a small space.

Specs

  • Two-chamber system
  • 12v plug for running vent fan
  • 72-watt fan vent
  • Utilizes 1.7amps within 24 hours (comes to around four cents per month)
  • Height: 21.5″
  • Width: 19″
  • Empty weight 28lbs
  • 5-year guarantee
  • Made in USA

This composting toilet is for you If you’re looking for an inexpensive, simple composting toilet that does what it is supposed to do.

Buy Here (with Spider Handle)

Buy Here (with Standard Handle)

Make sure to purchase a 12-volt transformer in case you wish to use 110v power.

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Separett Villa 9215

Separett Villa 9215 AC/DC 12V Urine Diverting High Capacity Waterless Composting Toilet
  • Waterless and odorless toilet for on and off grid
  • High quality, made in Sweden, 5 year warranty
  • Typical installation parts included
  • Support, parts and accessories available in US

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This wall-mounted Separett Villa 9215 has received praise from those who have used composting toilets previously.

This model is a dry composting toilet, which means there’s no liquid to cause unpleasant smells. However, there is a continuous fan that is built into the unit to further reduce the risk.

Separett is one of the brands that originated in Europe however it’s now to customers in the USA. Their toilets are designed to look like normal flush toilets as close as possible to ensure that visitors won’t be misled or dissuaded when using them.

Separett Villa is probably the most efficient composting toilet that you can utilize. It has one significant disadvantage in that you cannot move the chamber by hand. If power is cut off it won’t allow the chamber to be turned and composting can slow. Therefore, this is the most effective option if you have a reliable off-grid power source.

Utilized in a range of locations, from camping to tiny houses, users have noted that the composting toilet is simple to install even for those who are new to the concept and is easy to use.

One of the most popular features of this toilet for composting is that you don’t need to view the interior of the solids bin, and there’s no a necessity for compost medium and the churning process.

For single use to families with 10 people, there aren’t any issues and the toilet is suitable for use in high temperatures with no difficulties.

The main difference between this one, as well as the one provided by Nature’s Head, is that they are equipped with an electric rotator. it is not necessary to turn the toilet each time you visit Separett Villa 9215.

To start, put some peat moss within the chamber. It is not necessary to do anything else except periodically empty the waste chamber. If the urine chamber is designed to flow into your regular water drains, you don’t need to empty a bladder.

Installation and Power

For the installation of your composter toilet, it is necessary to have an energy source to run the chamber’s rotation and vent fan. It runs using AC and DC energy, which is perfect if you’re switching between regular electricity and off-grid.

It can connect to direct vents or vents with the size of US pipes. The entire direct venting apparatus is part of this composting toilet. The fan can operate with venting as high as 20.

The liquids can be designed to run into a drainage system. You can also allow the liquids to drain into the container (which needs to be manually emptied) or into an external system of filtration, like the sand bed outside of the bath.

We’d suggest Separett Villa 9215 as a good choice. Separett Villa 9215 is for people seeking a great composting toilet for areas that do not have sewer lines or septic fields. The only negative reviewers have mentioned is that it’s expensive but relative to other toilets that compost that are this good, we feel that the cost is comparable.

Specs

  • Two-chamber system
  • AC and DC electricity source for turning the chamber, as well as operating the vent fan.
  • 5 Watts
  • It uses 5 amps throughout the day.
  • The vent is in line with US pipe sizes.
  • Height: 21″
  • Width: 18″
  • Length: 26″
  • Empty weight 33 lbs
  • 5-year guarantee

Pros

  • There is no scent
  • Ideal for families with large numbers

Cons

  • Some have reported fan issues
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You should consider this composting toilet you don’t need to be turning the bowl or are willing to spend more.

Thinktank Composting Toilet

Sale
Thinktank Waterless Toilet
  • Brand New Composting Toilet solves major problems with existing compost toilets.
  • Airtight with separate air intake and exhaust pipes. No loss of heated or cooled...
  • Men can stand when using!
  • Very easy to clean. No bowl to get messy. Waste is contained in compostable bag.
  • Easy to use. Never need to add peat moss or turn a handle.

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Thinktank waterless composting toilets are extremely inventive and patent-pending. It’s an important advancement in the technology of composting toilets.

The composting toilet from Think Tank is designed to tackle some of the problems that have been a problem for a long time in composting toilets. The most common complaint concerning dry toilets is that they are often difficult or even impossible for men to sit up and go for go to the bathroom. Think Tank has solved that.

The composting toilet is 40 pounds and covers about 20 square inches. It is also constructed of extremely durable materials.

One of the features that make this possibly most likely to be the best composting toilet for off grid living is the strong exhaust and air intake fans. This is the reason why the unit remains airtight, and also why there is almost no smell. This design ensures that fans that are nearby aren’t affecting the smell inside your home. It also stops insects from accumulating.

This solid waste area is huge and vertical, which means cleaning this toilet can be much simpler due to the layout. This toilet is extremely efficient and enhances the quality of standards for the composting toilet.

Features:

  • MUCH EASIER TO CLEAN! A majority of composting and waterless toilets have a basin with a trap door to collect solid waste. There is a mess every time. The Thinktank Waterless Composting Toilet has a large, wide chute with walls that are vertical. It needs far less cleaning.
  • Thinktank The water-less toilets are airtight when operating in normal conditions! They draw air from outside as opposed to other toilets that draw in the bathing. In other toilets, you are constantly blowing costly cool or heated air outside. It is the Thintank waterless Composting Toilet, through its unique airtight design, pulls the air outside, then circulates it through the toilet, then expels the same air out. This can save a lot of money in the long run and is much more efficient and green.
  • Because the toilet is sealed, entry by insects is nearly impossible. This resolves a major issue for other composting and waterless toilets.
  • The unique trap door design lets men stand while they are urinating, contrary to other toilets that require men to sit.
  • The trap door is patented and keeps the waste in place throughout the day, excluding when you are going to #2. Only in this case is the trap door open. In all other instances, the trap door stays shut, the waste is kept hidden and the people are able to pee anywhere inside the bowl, without having to target.
  • The area to dispose of solid waste is huge and has vertical sides. This is a major improvement over the messy cleanup that comes with other waterless or composting toilets. In other toilets, waste could fall onto areas of the bowl, creating an unpleasant mess. With the Thinktank, there is a minimum amount of waste that will be able to reach the sides, and cleaning up is much easier.
  • Thinktank Waterless Composting Toilets utilize the top fans available. They are extremely efficient (high number of cubic feet for every minute) as well as a powerful static pressure (strength of airflow rating) and are extremely quiet, draw very little power, and come with an incredible life span (rated with 150,000hrs). Two fans are included two fans – one for the air intake and the other for exhaust. But, in the majority of installations the intake fan is ineffective and you could keep it in reserve. The intake fan can be useful to extend the length of vent pipes. The toilets are built for the intake fans to be easily accessible and removable.
  • All metal components are made of premium stainless steel, marine grade.
  • It is the Thinktank Waterless Composting Toilet is extremely durable. The shell is molded rotationally as the White Water Kayak. This is the most durable method of building something from plastic. It is rated at 350 pounds or more. The big guy has been acclimated!
  • Its Thinktank waterless Composting Toilet works on either 12 voltages (a deep cycle battery with 12 volts) or 110-volt power (normal electrical power used in homes) using the wall transformer.
  • The drain pipe for urine can be switched between the two sides using a simple hand tool.
  • Make use of inexpensive, widely-available compostable bags that are easily compostable.
  • BEST WARRANTY IN THE INDUSTRY. The warranty covers the toilet for six years. (3 years for fans. They’re inexpensive and simple to change).

Pros

  • Durable Constructions
  • Improved Design Over Compost Toilet Standards

Cons

  • Fan Requires a Power Source
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OGO Composting Toilet

OGO™ Compost Toilet | Best Nature's Compost Toilet | RV, Tiny Houses, Vans, Boats | Electric Mixing | Urine Separating | Urine Level Sensor | No Black Tanks No Dump-Stations
  • Push of a Button Electric Mixing
  • Smallest Footprint on Market 15" Deep x 16" Wide
  • USA Made with attention to Quality
  • Urine Level Sensor
  • 2.4 gallon urine bottle and 25-30 use solids bin

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The tiny OGO recycling toilet is a fantastic choice for tiny spaces, or for everyday use. With an electric agitator built-in There is no need for auto-churning or cranking needed and disposing of it is as simple.

The container for liquids is believed to last between 25 and 30 years before it has to be empty and the indicator light will let you know what time it is to flush the container.

The toilet is small enough to compost and can accommodate two people per day, which is up to 50 times. We suggest using the OGO composting toilet for smaller areas or families that are looking for something that is compact.

Pros

  • Light for an indicator of emptying
  • Ideal for use in the daily routine

Cons

  • Small and slightly ugly
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Stansport Portable Camp Toilet

Stansport Easy-Go Portable Camp Toilet (273-100) 14" L x 14" W x 14" H
  • Bathroom ON-THE-GO Take the comfort of a commode wherever you need with this...
  • The Sanitary Alternative Not only will you raise yourself off of the ground...
  • Comfortable Full-Size Seat Though this chamber pot is meant for the outdoors, it...
  • Built-In Handles For Easy Carrying The sturdy construction of the base is...
  • Disposable Sanitary Bags Included Only one disposable sanitary bag is included...

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

It is more of a toilet for camping than a composting toilet. The Stansport portable toilet for camping is an excellent option for those who need to be on the road.

A fantastic accessory to your camping kit This bathroom comes complete with a bag for carrying bag that is ideal for mobility.

The toilet is equipped with a capacity of 250 pounds. It comes with toiletry bags, so you don’t have to think about buying other supplies prior to going to the restroom.

While the toilet appears to be good from its exterior, its bucket is quite small and will have to be emptied after only a few use.

If you are looking for a portable, low-cost option to take bathroom breaks this might be an ideal choice.

Pros

  • The comfortable seat
  • Good height

Cons

  • Small waste bin
  • A composting toilet is not the same as a composting one.
Buy on Amazon

How to choose the Best composting toilet for off-grid?

Parts of a Composting Toilet

Most composting toilets off-grid are constructed to look like flush toilets as closely as possible. There is an empty bowl, a seat, and a lever for flushing. However, no water will be released during flushing.

To keep the bowl clean The majority of manufacturers recommend spraying it with a small amount of vinegar following each use.

The other components of compost toilets are different, however. There are a few variations between the types and models of compost toilets. However, these are the main components that you will see:

1. Urine-Diversion Device

It is crucial to segregate urine from solid waste. In the absence of this, the nitrogen content and the moisture content will be too high for waste to be composted quickly.

The compost toilet urine diverters are simple, but they work effectively. A funnel-like form allows urine to flow down the tube before it is pumped into an aeration device. If the tank of urine is full and it is empty, it can be disposed of outdoors in a safe manner.

2. Waste Chamber

After the use of the toilet is where the waste is disposed of. Prior to installing a compost toilet, you must add compost material to the bottom of the toilet, like sawdust or peat moss. When you empty the chamber you’ll need to add new material.

In the model of composting toilets, there might be several chambers. The final chamber is called the “finishing” chamber where composting waste is finished.

When the waste has been removed from the chamber, it’s allowed to be spread throughout your garden. The multi-chamber composting toilets are huge, but they are typically not portable.

The most advanced compost toilets are equipped with sensors and thermostats within the chamber. The toilet is able to automatically adjust the temperature to ensure that conditions are optimal for composting.

These toilets can cost a lot and generally do not work well for planning an emergency plan or off-grid.

3. Agitator

When you clean out the waste area of compost toilets make sure to include a little sawdust or peat. After that, you must turn the toilet.

For this, the portable compost toilets come with handles on the outside. The handle spins the chamber, causing it to vibrate and air it.

4. Fan and Vent

Venting the toilet’s cylinder allows more air to enter the waste within, aiding the growth of aerobic bacteria so that the process of composting is more efficient.

The vent can also help with any bad odors get rid of. A vent fan enhances the result, however, the fan requires electricity.

Other Considerations

Electric or Not?

Most portable compost toilets require electricity in order to function. Electricity powers motors to turn chambers and even regulates the temperature.

The presence of electric components means that composting is much more efficient. But the main caveat is that you’ll require electricity in order for your composting toilet to function.

For instance, if a blackout occurs, or you need to fix your solar panels, your toilet might not function.

Remember this when making your decision. It’s good to have all those electronic features, however:

  • You must ensure that it will function without power or
  • It is essential to have a reliable source that is energy-efficient (such for example, an energy source that can be used in emergencies).

Urine-Diverting

As I mentioned in the post about the sun-mar composting toilets typically, you want a composting toilet that can help to divert urine.

If it’s not, the compost will become too wet, and smelly anaerobic bacteria can grow. It takes a long time to obtain an organic fertilizer that is clean in the case of compost that is too moist. The nitrogen in urine can also hinder composting.

The only reason it’s acceptable is to not divert urine in the event that the waste is being pumped into an outside tank or ground pit. The pit or tank can be lined by sand to ensure the water drains away.

However, these kinds of pits aren’t permitted everywhere due to the risk that the waste will pollute groundwater.

The final word? Make sure you use composting toilets with urine division.

Appearance

In principle, it doesn’t be a problem if your composting toilet’s design looks like this.

If you are planning to have guests over it’s very beneficial that your composting toilet looks like the normal toilet as closely as you can. If not, your guests may be confused about how to operate it.

It is helpful to place posters in your bathroom that explains to guests how to utilize the toilet. Nature’s Head has one that you can download and print here (PDF).

FAQs

What Is the best toilet for off-grid?

The top five off-grid toilets you should think about:
1 Nature’s Head Composting Toilet
2 Separett 9215 Composting Toile
3. Thinktank Composting Toilet – Best toilet with a tight seal
4 OGO Composting Toilet
5 Stansport Portable Camp Toilet

Do off-grid toilets smell?

If you take care to maintain your off-grid toilet correctly, you will have almost no smell. If your toilet off the grid isn’t kept in a proper manner, it will soon become stinky.

What kind of toilet can you use off the grid?

Composting toilets require the least amount of water and electrical power. They can also be connected to solar panels to can have an off-grid toilet system.

How does off grid toilets work?

Most off-grid toilets are similar to normal toilets with a top. They’re self-contained and have mechanical devices that allow users to transfer waste into the bin. The more sophisticated systems come with a bio-septic tank in which good bacteria break down organic waste.

Conclusion: What is the best toilet for off-grid?

For the typical American going off grid is a big step. The idea of disconnecting from the power grid or even disconnecting from high-speed Internet is enough to send people into fear mode.

If you are thinking of the best composting toilet for off grid and composting your waste, then, it’s an entirely different ballgame. Utilizing your own best composting toilet for off grid living is a lengthy distance. However, we have been to the point that off grid living is becoming extremely popular with the American people.

The composting toilets may provide a solution to things like camping, glamping, or even a bigger vessel. The popularity of adventure tourism is expanding and is now an industry worth billions of dollars. This best composting toilet for off grid living will be able to fit into your home and perform in the way you would like it to.

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Dibyajyoti Bordoloi (CS, MBA Finance & Accounting) is the founder of CageHeaven.com. He is a Practising Company Secretary and a real estate and stock market investor. He is the owner of CS Bordoloi and Associates. He is a commerce graduate from Darrang College, Tezpur, Assam. Later on, he pursued his higher studies at the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI), and completed his MBA (Finance) degree from Guwahati University. With over 16 years of experience in finance and accounting, he teaches personal finance to non-technical common people like you how to do it the right way. He is a proud member of the Chamber of Real Estate and Builders Association (North-East India). He is also a successful Investor and Trader in Equities and Real Estate.