Top 5 composting toilets for off-grid living

Table of Contents

• Nature’s Head Self Contained Composting Toilet
• Separett Villa 9215 AC/DC
• Trelino Composting Toilet
• OGO™ Compost Toilet
• Poo Pod Waterless Composting Toilet
• Conclusion

Off-grid living is becoming increasingly popular as people seek to reduce their environmental footprint and live more sustainably. One of the challenges of off-grid living is managing waste, and composting toilets offer a practical solution. These toilets turn human waste into compost that can be used to fertilize the soil. In this article, we will explore the top 5 composting toilets for off-grid living.

Nature’s Head Self Contained Composting Toilet

The Nature’s Head is a self-contained composting toilet designed for use off the grid. It separates liquid and solid waste, utilizing coconut coir (sold separately) as bulking material to promote composting. The toilet features a crank-operated ventilation system and a removable waste holding tank.

Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects:

Pros:

• Relatively Easy to Use: Many users find the Nature’s Head user-friendly, with a straightforward operation and waste separation system.
• Reduced Waste and Water Usage: Composting toilets significantly reduce reliance on water and minimize waste sent to landfills.
• Odor Control: The ventilation system and bulking material help control odors if properly maintained.
• Compact Size: The Nature’s Head’s design makes it suitable for smaller spaces compared to some composting toilets.
• Positive Customer Reviews: Many Amazon customers praise the Nature’s Head for its functionality and ease of use.

Cons:

• Maintenance Requirements: Like any composting toilet, the Nature’s Head requires regular maintenance, including adding bulking material, emptying the waste tank, and ensuring proper ventilation.
• Urine Tank Needs Frequent Emptying: The urine tank may require daily emptying depending on usage, which can be a hassle for some users.
• Potential for Odors: If not properly maintained (ventilation, bulking material), odors can arise.
• Not Ideal for Large Families: The waste tank capacity might not be sufficient for large families or high-use scenarios.
• Cost: The Nature’s Head is a relatively expensive option compared to traditional toilets.

Considerations:

• Local Regulations: Composting toilets might not be legal in all areas. Research local regulations before purchasing.
• DIY Installation: The Nature’s Head can be installed by a handy DIYer, but some users might find professional installation helpful.
• Long-Term Commitment: Composting toilets require a commitment to ongoing maintenance for proper functionality and odor control.

Overall:

The Nature’s Head Self-Contained Composting Toilet is a well-regarded option for those seeking an eco-friendly sanitation solution for smaller spaces. It offers a relatively user-friendly experience and reduces water usage and waste. However, regular maintenance is crucial to avoid odors and ensure proper composting. Consider your needs, comfort level with maintenance, and local regulations before making a purchase.

Separett Villa 9215 AC/DC

The Separett Villa 9210 DC/AC is a self-contained composting toilet featuring urine diversion. Liquids are directed to a separate container for greywater usage, while solids are collected in a separate compartment with a bulking material (coconut coir or wood chips, sold separately) for composting. It boasts a single-speed fan for ventilation and comes in AC and DC power options for versatility.

Key Features:

• Urine Diverting: Separates urine for potential greywater reuse, reducing waste volume.
• Composting: Solid waste is composted with bulking material, minimizing reliance on landfills.
• Ventilation System: Built-in fan helps control odors with proper operation.
• AC/DC Power: Adapts to various power sources, making it suitable for on-grid or off-grid use.
• Comfortable Design: Users often praise the comfortable sitting experience compared to some composting toilets.

Pros:

• User-Friendly Design: Many users find the Separett Villa 9210 easy to use and maintain, with a clear separation system and accessible waste containers.
• Odor Control: The ventilation system and separation of liquids and solids contribute to odor control when properly maintained.
• Reduced Waste: Composting and urine diversion significantly reduce waste sent to landfills and conserve water.
• Comfortable Use: The ergonomic design is a plus for those seeking a more comfortable composting toilet experience.
• Positive Customer Reviews: Many Amazon customers appreciate the ease of use, odor control, and comfort of the Separett Villa.

Cons:

• Maintenance Needs: Like all composting toilets, regular maintenance is crucial for odor control and proper composting. This includes adding bulking material, emptying waste containers, and ensuring ventilation.
• Emptying Frequency: Depending on usage, the waste container might require emptying every few days, which some users might find inconvenient.
• Cost: The Separett Villa is a pricier option compared to traditional toilets.
• Limited User Reviews: While generally positive, the number of customer reviews on Amazon is lower compared to some competitors.

Considerations:

• Local Regulations: Composting toilets might not be legal in all areas. Research local ordinances before purchasing.
• Space Requirements: Measure your available space to ensure the toilet fits comfortably.
• Ventilation Needs: Proper ventilation is crucial for odor control. Ensure adequate airflow in your installation area.

Overall:

The Separett Villa 9210 DC/AC is a well-regarded composting toilet option for those seeking a user-friendly and comfortable experience. The urine diversion and composting features promote sustainability, while the ventilation system helps control odors with proper maintenance. However, regular maintenance is essential, and the emptying frequency might not suit everyone. Consider your needs, comfort level with maintenance, and local regulations before making a purchase.

Trelino Composting Toilet

The Trelino is a self-contained, waterless composting toilet designed for portability. It features a urine separating design and utilizes compostable bags for solid waste, offering a disposable option compared to some composting toilets. The Trelino boasts a compact size and a lightweight design for easy transport.

Key Features:

• Portable: Compact and lightweight, making it suitable for camping, vanlife, or outdoor use.
• Urine Diversion: Separates liquid waste for potential greywater reuse, reducing waste volume.
• Compostable Bags: Disposable option for solid waste simplifies waste management compared to emptying a bin.
• Odor Control: The urine separation and tight-fitting lid contribute to odor control when properly used.
• Lightweight Design: Easy to carry and transport.

Pros:

• Highly Portable: The compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for camping trips, outdoor adventures, or small spaces.
• Easy to Use: Many users find the Trelino user-friendly, with a simple operation and disposable compostable bags.
• Reduced Waste: Composting and urine diversion significantly reduce waste sent to landfills and conserve water.
• Odor Control: The separation system and tight-fitting lid help control odors if properly maintained.
• Positive Customer Reviews: Many Amazon customers praise the Trelino for its portability, ease of use, and odor control.

Cons:

• Disposable Bags: Compostable bags add to the operating cost and might not be ideal for those seeking a completely bag-free solution.
• Limited Capacity: The smaller size may not be suitable for large families or high-use scenarios.
• Maintenance Needs: Regular emptying of the urine container and proper disposal of compostable bags are crucial.
• Not Ideal for Long-Term Use: While portable, it might not be the most comfortable option for long-term use in a stationary location.

Considerations:

• Local Regulations: Composting toilets might not be legal in all areas. Research local ordinances before purchasing.
• Intended Use: Consider how you plan to use the toilet (camping, vanlife, etc.) to determine if portability is a priority.
• Waste Disposal: Plan for proper disposal of used compostable bags in designated composting facilities.
• Comfort: The smaller size might not be as comfortable as full-sized composting toilets.

Overall:

The Trelino Composting Toilet offers a convenient and portable solution for eco-conscious outdoor enthusiasts. The urine separation, compostable bags, and lightweight design promote ease of use and waste reduction. However, the disposable bags add cost, the smaller size might limit comfort and capacity, and it might not be ideal for long-term stationary use. If portability is your top priority and you’re comfortable with using compostable bags, the Trelino could be a good choice. For those seeking a more permanent solution or a larger capacity, other composting toilets might be a better fit.

OGO™ Compost Toilet

The OGO™ is an electric, self-contained composting toilet featuring a unique design with a rotating base and a urine diverter. Solid waste is broken down with the help of an electric agitator, while a ventilation system helps manage odors. The OGO™ boasts a compact footprint and a user-friendly design.

Key Features:

• Electric Agitator: Aims to accelerate composting by mechanically breaking down solid waste.
• Urine Diversion: Separates liquid waste for potential greywater reuse, reducing waste volume.
• Ventilation System: Built-in fan helps control odors with proper operation.
• Compact Design: Well-suited for smaller spaces compared to some composting toilets.
• Modern Aesthetics: Sleek design offers a more contemporary look than traditional composting toilets.

Pros:

• Potentially Faster Composting: The electric agitator might accelerate waste breakdown compared to non-electric systems.
• Easy to Use: Many users find the OGO™ user-friendly, with a simple operation and intuitive waste separation system.
• Odor Control: The ventilation system and electric agitator contribute to odor control when properly maintained.
• Space-Saving Design: The compact size makes it a good option for smaller bathrooms.
• Modern Look: The sleek design appeals to those who prefer a more contemporary aesthetic.

Cons:

• Electricity Dependence: The OGO™ relies on electricity for operation, limiting its use in off-grid scenarios.
• Higher Cost: The OGO™ is on the pricier side compared to some composting toilets.
• Limited User Reviews: While generally positive, the number of customer reviews online is lower compared to some competitors.
• Maintenance Needs: Regular maintenance, including adding bulking material and emptying the waste bin, is crucial.

Considerations:

• Local Regulations: Composting toilets might not be legal in all areas. Research local ordinances before purchasing.
• Space Requirements: While compact, measure your available space to ensure a comfortable fit.
• Electrical Needs: Ensure you have a reliable electrical source to power the system.
• Maintenance Routine: Be prepared for regular maintenance tasks like emptying the waste bin and adding bulking material.

Overall:

The OGO™ Compost Toilet offers a user-friendly and potentially faster composting experience with a modern design. The electric agitator and ventilation system promote odor control, while the compact size makes it ideal for smaller spaces. However, electricity dependence, higher cost, and limited user reviews are factors to consider. If budget and access to electricity are not limitations, and you value a modern aesthetic and potentially faster composting, the OGO™ could be a good choice. For those seeking a more budget-friendly or off-grid option, electric-free composting toilets might be a better fit.

Poo Pod Waterless Composting Toilet

The Poo-Pod is a self-contained, waterless composting toilet designed for use in off-grid locations, cabins, or tiny homes. It features a simple design with a separating bowl for solid and liquid waste. Coconut coir (sold separately) is used as bulking material to promote composting in the solid waste compartment. The Poo-Pod boasts a relatively low price point compared to other composting toilets.

Key Features:

• Simple Design: Easy to understand and operate, making it suitable for DIY enthusiasts.
• Urine Diversion: Separates liquid waste for potential greywater reuse, reducing waste volume.
• Composting System: Solid waste is composted with bulking material for a sustainable disposal method.
• Budget-Friendly: One of the most affordable composting toilet options on the market.
• Compact Size: Suitable for smaller spaces compared to some composting toilets.

Pros:

• Affordable: The Poo-Pod offers a cost-effective option for those looking for a budget-friendly composting toilet solution.
• Easy to Use: The simple design and clear separation system make it user-friendly for many people.
• Reduced Waste: Composting and urine diversion significantly reduce waste sent to landfills and conserve water.
• Compact Design: The smaller size makes it a good option for limited bathroom space .
• Positive Customer Reviews: Many Amazon customers appreciate the affordability and ease of use of the Poo-Pod.

Cons:

• Limited User Reviews: There are fewer customer reviews compared to some competitors, making it difficult to gauge long-term user experience.
• Potential for Odors: Some user reviews mention concerns about odor control, especially if not maintained meticulously .
• Maintenance Needs: Regular maintenance, including adding bulking material, emptying the waste bin, and ensuring proper ventilation, is crucial.
• DIY Installation: While installation is possible for handy DIYers, professional installation might be preferable for some users.

Considerations:

• Local Regulations: Composting toilets might not be legal in all areas. Research local ordinances before purchasing.
• Space Requirements: Measure your available space to ensure the toilet fits comfortably.
• Maintenance Routine: Be prepared for regular maintenance tasks like emptying the waste bin and adding bulking material. Improper maintenance can lead to odors.
• Ventilation Needs: Ensure adequate ventilation in your installation area for optimal odor control.

Overall:

The Poo-Pod Waterless Composting Toilet offers a budget-friendly and user-friendly option for those new to composting toilets. However, potential odor concerns, limited user reviews, and the need for regular maintenance are factors to consider. If budget is a major concern and you’re comfortable with consistent maintenance , the Poo-Pod could be a good starting point. For those seeking a more established brand with potentially better odor control features, other composting toilets might be a better fit.

Conclusion

For the Comfort-Seeker: Nature’s Head Self Contained Composting Toilet

Nature’s Head is a well-regarded brand known for user-friendly designs. Their self-contained composting toilet boasts a comfortable sitting experience and a simple spider handle for crank-powered ventilation. Many users appreciate its ease of use and odor control when properly maintained. However, the Nature’s Head might not be the most budget-friendly option compared to some competitors.

For the Feature-Rich Option: Separett Villa 9215 AC/DC

The Separett Villa offers a feature-packed composting toilet experience. This electric model boasts urine diversion , a built-in ventilation fan, and the ability to operate on AC or DC power , making it suitable for on-grid or off-grid use. Customer reviews often praise its comfort and odor control . However, the Separett Villa has a higher price point and requires regular maintenance to function optimally.

For the Portable Adventurer: Trelino Composting Toilet

The Trelino shines for its portability . This lightweight and compact design makes it ideal for camping trips, vanlife, or outdoor adventures. The urine separation and compostable bag system offer a convenient waste management solution. Many users find the Trelino easy to use . However, the disposable bags add to the operating cost, and the smaller size might not be suitable for long-term, high-use scenarios.

For the Tech-Savvy Eco-Conscious User: OGO™ Compost Toilet

The OGO™ takes a modern approach to composting toilets. This electric model features a rotating base and an electric agitator designed to accelerate composting. A built-in ventilation system further promotes odor control. The OGO™ boasts a sleek design and a user-friendly interface. However, its reliance on electricity might limit its use in off-grid settings, and the OGO™ is on the pricier side.

For the Budget-Minded Beginner: Poo Pod Waterless Composting Toilet

The Poo Pod is a cost-effective entry point into the world of composting toilets. This simple design features urine separation and utilizes coconut coir bulking material for composting. Many users appreciate its affordability and ease of use . However, consistent maintenance is crucial to avoid odor issues, and some user reviews mention concerns about odor control. The Poo Pod might be a good option for DIY enthusiasts , but professional installation might be preferable for some users.

Choosing the Right Composting Toilet:

Ultimately, the best composting toilet for you depends on your priorities and needs. Consider these factors:

• Budget: Composting toilets range in price from budget-friendly options like the Poo Pod to feature-rich models like the Separett Villa.
• Portability: Do you need a compact and lightweight option for camping or a permanent solution for your home?
• Maintenance: Composting toilets all require regular maintenance, but some, like the electric models, might have additional considerations.
• Features: Do you prioritize comfort, faster composting, or a modern design?
• Local Regulations: Ensure composting toilets are legal in your area.

By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and find the composting toilet that aligns with your eco-friendly lifestyle.