7 best composting toilets for homes

Composting toilets for homes are innovative and sustainable sanitation solutions that can be used in residential settings to efficiently manage human waste while reducing the environmental impact. Here's what you need to know about composting toilets:

  1. How Composting Toilets Work:

    • Composting toilets use a natural biological process called composting to break down human waste into a safe and odorless soil conditioner.
    • They separate solid waste from liquid waste, allowing for better composting conditions.
  2. Components:

    • Composting toilets typically consist of a toilet bowl or seat, a waste collection chamber, a ventilation system, and a composting chamber.
    • The ventilation system promotes aerobic decomposition and prevents odors by continuously moving air through the waste material.
  3. Types of Composting Toilets:

    • Self-contained Units: These are all-in-one units where both the composting and collection chambers are in the same fixture. They are suitable for smaller spaces.
    • Remote Systems: In remote systems, the composting chamber is located separately from the toilet fixture. This design allows for more flexibility in installation.
  4. Advantages:

    • Environmentally Friendly: Composting toilets reduce water consumption since they don't require flushing, helping conserve water resources.
    • Low Impact: They can be a sustainable option for homes in areas with limited access to sewage systems.
    • Nutrient-Rich Compost: The end product, called "humanure," is a valuable soil conditioner rich in nutrients that can be used for gardening.
    • Off-Grid Living: Composting toilets are ideal for off-grid or remote homes where traditional sewage systems are not feasible.
  5. Maintenance:

    • Regular maintenance is required to ensure proper operation. This includes monitoring the composting process, adding bulking agents (like sawdust), and emptying the compost chamber when it's full.
    • Ventilation fans and the composting process itself help control odors, but occasional cleaning and maintenance are necessary.
  6. Regulations and Permits:

    • Before installing a composting toilet, check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits. Regulations can vary by location.
  7. Cost:

    • The initial cost of a composting toilet can be higher than a conventional flush toilet. However, long-term savings on water bills and potential environmental benefits may offset the upfront investment.
  8. Installation:

    • Composting toilets can be installed indoors or outdoors, depending on the model and local regulations.
    • Proper ventilation and access to electricity may be required for the unit to function effectively.

In summary, composting toilets are eco-friendly sanitation solutions for homes that can reduce water consumption and provide valuable compost for gardening. They come in different types and require regular maintenance for optimal performance. Ensure compliance with local regulations and consider the long-term benefits when deciding whether to install one in your home.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best composting toilets for homes on the market
  

Nature's Head Self Contained Composting Toilet with Close Quarters Spider Handle Design

Nature's Head

Based on 436 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Nature's Head Composting Toilet is the latest design, the best value, and the most reliable choice for portable, self contained, urine separating dry toilets -- on the water, on the land, or on the road." "This toilet or head, (the marine term for toilet) was designed by two long time sailors who sought to create a more user friendly version than anything else on the market. While we designed our product to withstand the harsh marine environment, it can be used anywhere you need a toilet, especially anywhere that plumbing or electricity is difficult or non-existent -- on RVs or campers, in vacation cabins, workshops, barns, yurts, even trucks. Most importantly, this toilet doesn't have the foul odors associated with all other holding tank systems. The low volume air circulation fan built into the head provides the added benefit of recycling the air in your bathroom which helps make your whole environment smell better. Because it was originally designed for marine use, its rugged design and materials (all stainless hardware) it has been proven to be extremely durable no matter what your environment.

  • No one - and I mean no one - will beat my customer service and individual support
  • 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 in 5 minutes.
  • A vast improvement over older composting toilet designs. This one works!

User questions & answers

Question: does this toilet come wit a manufactures warantee
Answer: I have always got the Kirkland bath tissue been buying it for six years.I really like the bath tissue
Question: Does the fan need to be on 24/7? And since the top flips backwards I assume you can't put this up against a wall too closely
Answer: Yes. the Kirkland tissue width is 4" wide by 3.5 " long. Most tissue paper holders are 5" wide, I believe. Keep in mind the width of most tissue papers have shrunk to less than 4 inches wide. they used to be 4" x 4".
Question: What sort of maintenance is required on this thing? How many lbs of waste would it hold sanitarily, and what are the procedures for keeping it clean
Answer: el precio es muy alto creo que aprovecharon el momento y no esta bien .
Question: I need a toilet for a cabin for 2 to 3 people for 4 month's a year will this do the job
Answer: I have a septic tank and use RID X every month but I burn my toilet paper. I do not put it in the septic tank. This is the best tissue I have ever used.

SUN-MAR GTG COMPOSTING TOILET || Portable Toilet, Compost Toilet for RV

Sustainable Village

Based on 29 reviews Check latest price
  • COMPACT AND PORTABLE - The efficient GTG is the ideal portable toilet for camping or RV toilet use!
  • INSTALLS IN MINUTES - This portable potty for adults (children too) is almost TOO easy to install!
  • SOLID/LIQUID SEPARATION - This smart toilet separate liquid and solid waste to separate chambers!
  • TINY - The most compact porta potty camp toilet (that doesn't sacrifice practicality) we could find!
  • EASY DISPOSAL - The GTG functions similarly to a cassette toilet, making waste management a breeze!

User questions & answers

Question: What size bags does the bucket use
Answer: After you fill with water you will have to pull the lever out on the side. That opens the hole and flushes it into the bottom portion.
Question: where is it being shipped from Mars
Answer: Ours did too. Ours was still under warranty and they sent us a replacement at no charge however, the new seat has cracked already and it has been a little over a week. We will be contacting Camco with pictures again. We had to contact Camco directly through their website.
Question: Other composting toilets of similar size have some kind of mixing system to mix composting medium with solid waste. How is the solid waste handled
Answer: I’m assuming you’re talking about weight. I just empty ours before it gets full and only has 1 or 2 gallons in it. More manageable that way. Hope this helps...
Question: How many uses before the solids must be removed
Answer: I don't have this exact one but the plunger on the left top should be your flush. You should have a holding tank for clean water that will need to be filled to flush properly. The top comes of and the waste is in the bottom half that will need to be dumped and rinsed, can be flushed down a toliet. No batteries should be needed.

Product features

Easy-to-Remove Seat/Separator

The first key feature of the GTG is the liquid/solid separator, and user-friendly design. The seat easily connects and disconnects, giving the user access to the composting material underneath the seat. Composting or disposing of waste is a breeze!

Dual-Chamber System Design

The GTG neatly and efficiently separates liquid from solid waste into respective chambers. The liquid waste can simply be poured out, and the solid container is designed for direct removal, or use of a bag/liner for easy composting.

Built-in Fan

This composting toilet features an integrated fan/vent. Fans and moving air can decrease unfavorable odors and catalyze the composting process by increasing aerobic conditions.

Simple & Compact Design

There is no better toilet for RV, camping, or other compact spaces than the GTG. Its simplistic and compact design make it the obvious choice for small spaces.

About the GTG - Good To Go!

With a composting toilet this easy to use and install, you'll be wondering where else you can put them! This toilet separates liquid/solid waste into respective chambers. This porta potty toilet will have you wondering why you didn't ditch your rv toilet chemicals earlier. This model is significantly lower hassle and has a lower environmental impact as opposed to incinerator toilet(s) and incinerating toilet(s). Perhaps bests of all, the GTG functions as a waterless toilet. The GTG will complete your portable bathroom. These toilets are popular due to their compact size, function (similar to a cassette toilet), and ease of use. Note: We cannot accept returns on this item, or any of our other toilets.

Sun-Mar Excel Non-Electric Self-Contained Composting Toilet, Model# Excel-NE

SUN

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Sun-Mar Excel non-electric self-contained composting toilet odorlessly converts human waste into safe fertilizing soil. This model is designed for medium to high capacity use, ideal for a 2-3 people in a residential setting or 5-7 people at a cabin for a weekend. NSF/ANSI Certified: Yes, Application: Toilet needs, Drain (qty.): 1, Usage: Medium to high capacity, Self Contained: Yes, Electric: No, Vent Stack Size (in.): 4, Venting Kit Included: Yes, Dimensions L x W x H (in.): 33 x 22 1/2 x 32

  • Non-electric model; ideal for applications off the grid
  • Low profile unit complements any bathroom
  • Uses no water
  • 100% non-polluting
  • Includes variable diameter bio-drum with recessed handle for processing compost

User questions & answers

Question: does this evaporate urine
Answer: This would be a better question to ask to Sun-Mar directly, us distributors wouldn't really know such a technical questions. I would assume so.
Question: Can the toilet be used year round in a non heated cabin where temps get to
Answer: The package dimensions are 36" L x 28" W x 37" H. The shipping weight is 100 lbs.
Question: hi can you please tell me the size and weight of the packaged product (the way it would ship)? Thank you
Answer: Sun-mar composting toilets can freeze but the composting process will slow down. Once the area warms up again then the composting process will continue.
Question: Looking for a compost toilet for a remote cabin that is used a few months of the year. Which model if cleaned can we allow to freeze
Answer: Perfect sizing

SereneLife Outdoor Portable Toilet with Carry Bag, Travel Toilet with Level indicator | | 3 Way Pistol Flush | Rotating Spout, for Camping, Boating, Traveling & Roadtripping

SereneLife

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Serene Life Model : SLCATL320Portable Outdoor Toilet System Portable Toilet - Outdoor And Travel Toilet, 5. 3 Gal. Features: Compact, Portable And Comfortable Easy Clean 3-Way Flush Nozzle Design Flushes and Rinses Bowl with Fresh Water Reserve Waste Water Tank Level Indication And VentNo External Water or Power Connections Require drugged And Durable Construction Corrosion-Resistant And Easy-to-Clean Button-Styled Pump Flusher Water Tank Capacity for Up to 50+ Flushes Easy Access Waste Tank for Quick Disposal Double-Sealed Drain Valve Protects Against Leaks And Odors A portable toilet has the unique ability to make your camping, boating or traveling experiences more enjoyable by providing a place for you to go whenever the urge strikes. This means you can stop digging holes and avoid long walks back to shared facilities when visiting campgrounds, camping on the beach or checking out popular tourist destinations! Since it is ultra lightweight, the Serene Life traveling toilet for adults can also be used as a portable toilet for boats, as a portable toilet for car rides or as an indoor portable toilet when you have guests or a broken stationary commode. An average bucket camping toilet gets the job done but this large portable toilet also reduces the mess when filling and emptying. This is because we have equipped it with an XL 5. 3 gallon tank, a splash-proof pouring spout and a layer of leak-free odor control protection. When you flush the commode, the 3 way nozzle also does a decent job of keeping the bowel clean. Unlike other travel toilet seats, this portable toilet with spout comes with its own carrying case. All you have to do is insert the components, cinch it up and you'll be all set to spend some time in the wilderness while still maintaining the modern comforts of home. Where will you go without worry? Don't wait to find out. Order your camping toilet today. Assembled Product Dimensions (L x W x H): 20.90 x 20.50 x 18.60 Inches

  • GO IN COMFORT ANYWHERE: Whether heading off for an unforgettable backwoods camping trip or traveling with the family, this portable toilet kit by Serene Life lets you go wherever and whenever nature calls!
  • #1 PORTABLE TRAVEL TOILET: Boating enthusiasts, frequent travelers And road tripping families turn to our compact traveling toilet seat because it can tag along without taking up too much room or weighing your down.
  • EXTRA LARGE TOILET TANK: The 5. 3 gallon toilet tank holds more than most other portable camping toilets, which means you'll have to empty it less often. And waste water tank level indication let you know when it's time!
  • EXTREMELY EASY TO EMPTY: We've rigged this portable camping toilet with a splash-free rotating pour spout, allowing you to quickly And discreetly empty it when full. The odor-resistant materials also make sure it doesn't retain smells!
  • CARRYING CASE INCLUDED: What kind of camping toilet chair doesn't come with a carrying case?! Our heavy duty portable toilet comes with a travel toilet bag that makes it super easy to tote around campsites.

User questions & answers

Question: Can these portable toilets be connected to the sewer pipe (black water hose) at campgrounds
Answer: No. The bottom portion that stores the waste water has to be deprecated and dumped.
Question: How much water is released when pump os operated
Answer: If I were to guess I'd say 1-2 cups, roughly 240-475 ml
Question: Is the center hole 8 x 9 like most others
Answer: You're correct. It's 9 in. front to back and 8 1/4 in. wide. You made me curious, so I measured my bathroom toilet. It's considered a long bowl and measures 10 in. front to back and the same 8 1/4 in. wide. Thank you for helping me learn something new. If I'm ever confronted by a mugger who says "tell me how big your toilet is or I'll blow your head off" I now know the answer. You may have saved my life!
Question: What happens after 50 flushes? Is there a battery and is it replaceable? Not enthusiastic about purchasing a new one every 50 flushes
Answer: There are two halves, top half has a cap to fill clean water and a plunger to push the clean water into the tank. The bottom half is for the waste which needs to be empty. There is an indicator in the front to let you know when it's due. I empty it about 3/4 full. I made the mistake once when the level was all red, DON'T DO THAT! 3/4 is best. To break down the waste, I use Walex Bio-Pak (for breaking down waste) and Porta-Pak (deodorizer), one each. I put them after setting it up and after each cleaning. It almost completely turns it into liquid. Fresh scent porta-pak seems to smell better (blue package) than lavender (purple package), however bio-back (green package) IS DEFINITELY NEEDED to break down waste. After the bottom tank gets full, (more like 40 flushes than fifty) it needs to be emptied, rinsed out with clean water and set back up. After its set up put in one bio-pak and one porta-pak. You can order through Amazon for those. The water tank, upper portion holds about 2.5 gallons (about 9.5 liters), I don't pull the plunger all the way up, only about half way or as needed. This way it conserves on water. Hope this helps.

Product features

Outdoor Portable Toilet with Carry Bag

SereneLife’s SLCATL320 portable toilet with carrying case is specially designed for outdoor or indoor activities, it is also a great emergency porta potty. Whether heading off for an unforgettable backwoods camping trip or traveling with the family, this portable toilet kit lets you go wherever and whenever nature calls. It has a capacity of 3.2 gallons of clean water and 50+ times of flushing. Also comes with a waste tank where waste is stored after flushing that has a capacity of 5.3 gallons. It’s also very accessible for quick disposal.

Portable Camping Toilet,Indoor Outdoor Toilet with Detachable Inner Bucket & Toilet Paper Holder for RV, Campsite, Car, Boat, Caravan, Hospital (Brown)

Product description

Features:

1. With Non-slip Mat

2. Environment-friendly,odor proof, leak proof

3. Sturdy and durable

4. Made of high quality material

5. Flushing easily and save water

6. Perfect for outdoor activities or long road boat trip

Specifications:

1. Material: PP

2. Color: Brown

3. Product Dimensions: (19.69 x 15.75 x 16.54)" / (50 x 40 x 42)cm (L x W x H)

4. Net Weight: 5.51lb / 2.5kg

5. Packing Dimensions: (16.73 x 9.84 x 19.69)" / (42.5 x 25 x 50)cm (L x W x H)

6. Gross Weight: 6.28lb / 2.85kg

7. Box Rate: 1

Package Includes:

1 x Plastic Toilet

  • 【Humanized Settings】The mobile toilet has a raised base, so you can sit for a long time in time, and your legs and waist will not feel sore; the design of the anti-slip mat is safer and can be firmly placed on the ground; the side handle design allows you to easily pick up the toilet.
  • 【Stable Structure】The toilet is made of high-quality PP material, which is smooth and durable; the sturdy structure makes it have strong load-bearing capacity and good stability without slipping, providing maximum comfort, therefore Can be used as a stool.
  • 【Prevent Odor】The toilet has a removable inner bucket, so you can use it with a garbage bag without cleaning. The inner barrel has a strong handle for easy carrying and cleaning. The inner cover and outer cover can effectively seal the smell and keep the air fresh.
  • 【Removable Toilet Paper Holder】There is a toilet paper holder on the side of the toilet, you can hang paper towels on it, and it is also convenient for you to put your mobile phone. It can bring great convenience to your journey. The portable emergency toilet can be easily carried with the car.
  • 【Eco-Friendly Toilet】This high-quality, environmentally-friendly toilet can provide powerful flushing function, reduce pumping, easy flushing and save water, as well as anti-odor and anti-leakage capabilities. It is very suitable for camping, outdoor activities or long boat trips, as well as those old people moving or sick. (Our warehouse is in US and can deliver the goods to you within 10 days).

User questions & answers

Question: how do you vent it
Answer: you must vent it through to the outside. Instructions specifically state not to use vent replacement valves,maybe due to oders.
Question: Will this support a bathroom and laundry
Answer: The SaniBEST Pro would be the best choice for your situation. It’s the most popular and economic system for adding a full bath with laundry. The SaniBEST can be used it with any sink and any shower (just standard PVC connections coming into the pump). You will just need to elevate the shower by 6 inches to fit the P-trap and for the gravity fall to the pump. The washer can be connected via an indirect connection such as a laundry sink.
Question: Would this toilet be capable of handling drain water from a shower or bathtub
Answer: I have it connected to my shower, I don't think its capable of handing the amount of water from a tub. You would need to get a separate saniflow like they have for the washers. You can call to check though.
Question: larry reed, why did you connect a shower to it. was it so the macerator pump would pump out the shower water? i am considering the same thing
Answer: There was no other outlet for the shower. My septic is four ft above the basement floor. Works good, hope this helps.
Question: is this unit A D A compliant
Answer: No
Question: was told you have to raise the toilet if you use ex. pipe is this true
Answer: Nope, false
Question: Can I have the toilet on one side of wall and the macerator on the other side of the wall. Also will it connect to a shower and sink
Answer: The Saniflo "access 3" will accept a shower/tub and a vanity as well as the toilet itself. And you would need to purchase an extension pipe fro Saniflo to put the pump behind a wall.
Question: For how long is the warranty
Answer: Saniflo offers a 2-year warranty for the pumps and a 1-year warranty for the toilet bowl and tank. The warranty starts from the date of purchase. If you register the pump online at Saniflo, you can get an extended warranty of 1 year for free.
Question: How high above the floor is the inlet hole for a drain pipe from a sink
Answer: Not sure exactly, but as I recall it was about 5, 6” above but somewhat flexible
Question: I have an existing gravity feed toilet. Can I replace/connect this on top of the standard floor sewer line my existing toilet is currently seated on
Answer: Yes & no. Yes, you can install on top of existing toilet drain, but no, to do so you would have to cap existing toilet drain (to prevent sewer gas from escaping) and tie sanicompact 1" discharge line into toilet vent line in wall. But why?
Question: We lost 1 anchor bolt. Mfr wont sell 1. Can you suggest acceptable bolt from hardware store
Answer: Take the one bolt you have to the hardware store, find a close match, buy two and throw away the original.
Question: I do not have a sewage pipe I can attach the pipe to,can I use a standard drain used for a washing machine and general cleaning
Answer: Thanks so much for contacting us. Yes, you can connect it into the same drainage line as long as that washer drain pipe drains into the main city sewer or septic tank (so it is standard black water waste). The only concern is if any other pipes are tied into that same drain pipe that may obstruct the air flow or may suck out the p-trap dry, then odor will come out that p-trap. If you have any other questions, please feel free to give us a call. We're happy to help! Sincerely - Support Team @ upflushTOILET.com (855) 70-FLUSH (855-703-5874)

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SANIFLO

Based on 82 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Saniaccess 2 is a 1/2 HP pump system used to install a half-bathroom up to 15 feet below the sewer line, or even up to 150 feet away from a soil stack. It incorporates a macerating system which can handle human waste and toilet paper in residential applications. The blade is made out of a hardened stainless steel material which eliminates the need for any service or replacement.

  • Quietset pump on the market

User questions & answers

Question: what unit would i need to buy for a shower, toilet and sink
Answer: For a full bathroom you'll want the SaniACCESS 3. The ACCESS 2 only handles 2 fixtures (sink and toilet), whereas the 3 handles three fixtures (sink, toilet, shower/bath).
Question: How far will it pump
Answer: I have it set up for 25' distance with about 4' head to septic tank. No problems so far. Adding another shortly.
Question: Can anyone please tell me the ballpark figure it might cost to have this toilet installed
Answer: I just installed one last week. Although the unit itself is basic plumbing, the path of the drain lines can be difficult in some situations. If the plumbing in your house is accessible, it is not too bad. If you call a plumber, it could be as little as $200. However, it could also be several hundred,depending on access to main stack.
Question: washing machine in my detached garage drains into a 2 inch drain pipe that connects under our home. What's minimum that I need to buy
Answer: This unit drains with a 3/4”or 1” line there’s no problem

Shannons Odor be Gone - All Natural - No Chemicals Composting Sawdust for Compost Toilet - No More Odor

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Organic sawdust for Composting Toilets

  • 5 pounds of 100% Organic Sawdust & Shavings, Dry & Clean
  • Removes the Odor in Composting Toilets
  • Our Own Perfect Blend of Pine & Hardwood Sawdust / Shavings for masking odor in composting toilets
  • 100% Chemical Free Environment Friendly

User questions & answers

Question: How much does one use in an emergency portable toilet
Answer: Don’t waste your money. I don’t think they do anything to it doesn’t have a smell. I finally ended up getting cedar shavings from my husband’s woodworking projects and that did the job and smelled like cedar is supposed to.
Question: Do they do any treatments to make sure no pests are living in the dust
Answer: I asks myself that same question I couldn't find any place to dispose It but putting them into trach can by making sure I rebag it good so I went to buy trach bag heavy duty trash bags and make sure it was secured that nothing fall out or smell so yes I dispose it into a garbage dump fully secured with heavy-duty trash bags and you will definitely need to double baguette

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