As sustainability becomes more important, more households, RV travelers, and off-grid homeowners are exploring composting toilets as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional flushing systems. Unlike conventional toilets that use gallons of water per flush, composting toilets turn human waste into compost through a natural decomposition process.
But how does a composting toilet work? Which system is right for you? And what’s the best composting toilet on the market today? This guide answers all those questions and more.
What Is a Composting Toilet?
A composting toilet is a waterless or low-water waste management system that uses natural processes to break down human waste into safe, usable compost.
Instead of flushing waste away into a sewage system, composting toilets:
- Separate liquid and solid waste to reduce odor.
- Use aerobic decomposition with oxygen, heat, and organic matter.
- Produce compost that can be safely disposed of or used in landscaping (depending on local regulations).
Fact: Traditional toilets can use up to 1.6 gallons per flush. Composting toilets save thousands of gallons of water per year.
How Does a Composting Toilet Work?
A composting toilet operates on the principle of controlled decomposition. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Separation of Waste
- Most modern systems (like the Nature’s Head composting toilet) separate liquids (urine) from solids. This reduces moisture, preventing odors and speeding up composting.
- Addition of Bulking Material
- After use, users add organic bulking material like coconut coir, peat moss, or sawdust. This balances carbon, absorbs moisture, and improves airflow.
- Aerobic Breakdown
- With ventilation and occasional stirring, microorganisms break down waste aerobically (with oxygen).
- Evaporation of Liquids
- Excess moisture evaporates through a vent system, preventing anaerobic (smelly) decomposition.
- Finished Compost
- Over weeks to months, the waste breaks down into a soil-like substance that is safe to handle and dispose of according to regulations.
Composting Toilet System Types
There are several types of composting toilet systems, each suited for different needs.
1. Self-Contained Composting Toilets
- Compact units with built-in compost chambers.
- Common in RVs, boats, tiny homes, and cabins.
- Example: Nature’s Head Composting Toilet.
2. Central (Remote) Composting Toilets
- Waste is transported via a chute or pipe to a remote composting chamber (usually in the basement or outside).
- Larger capacity, ideal for households.
3. Batch Composting Systems
- Use removable containers or drums that can be swapped when full.
- Ensures complete composting before reuse.
Tip: Small households and travelers usually prefer self-contained systems, while families or off-grid homes often choose central systems.
Benefits of a Composting Toilet
Why choose a composting toilet over a traditional flush system?
- Water conservation: Saves thousands of gallons annually.
- Eco-friendly: Reduces sewage and wastewater pollution.
- Odor-free: Properly maintained units are virtually odorless.
- Off-grid ready: Works without plumbing or septic systems.
- Cost savings: Lower water bills and reduced septic system expenses.
Pro Tip: Composting toilets are legal in most places but always check local regulations before installation.
Nature’s Head Composting Toilet: A Popular Choice
One of the most popular brands on the market is the Nature’s Head composting toilet. Designed for boats, RVs, cabins, and tiny homes, it’s compact, durable, and easy to use.
Features of Nature’s Head Composting Toilet:
- Urine-diverting system reduces odor.
- Ventilation fan for airflow and evaporation.
- Hand crank for mixing waste and bulking material.
- Detachable liquid container for easy emptying.
- Low-maintenance and designed for long-term use.
User Experience: Many RV and van-life travelers praise the Nature’s Head for being odor-free, reliable, and cost-effective.
Learn more about Nature’s Head Composting Toilet here.
Best Composting Toilet Options in 2025
If you’re looking for the best composting toilet system, here are some top-rated options:
1. Nature’s Head Composting Toilet (Best for RVs & Tiny Homes)
- Compact and durable.
- Ideal for travelers and off-grid living.
- Price: $$$
2. Separett Villa 9215 AC/DC (Best for Home Use)
- Swedish design with modern look.
- Central composting system.
- AC and DC power options.
3. Sun-Mar Excel Composting Toilet (Best High-Capacity Model)
- NSF-certified for residential use.
- Can handle full-time family use.
- Batch composting system.
4. OGO Composting Toilet (Best Modern Compact Design)
- Sleek, space-saving design.
- Electric mixing and urine diversion.
5. Simploo Composting Toilet (Budget-Friendly Option)
- Simple urine-diverting system.
- Affordable and easy to install.
Common Questions About Composting Toilets
Do Composting Toilets Smell?
Not if maintained properly. Urine diversion, ventilation fans, and bulking material keep odors minimal.
How Often Do You Empty a Composting Toilet?
- Solids: Every 3–6 weeks (depends on usage).
- Liquids: Every 2–4 days.
Can You Use Compost from a Composting Toilet?
Yes, but check local regulations. In many regions, it can only be used on non-edible plants (ornamentals, landscaping).
How Much Does a Composting Toilet Cost?
- Portable/budget models: $200–$500
- Premium self-contained units: $900–$1,500
- Central systems: $1,500–$3,000+
Conclusion
Composting toilets are a smart, eco-friendly solution for anyone looking to conserve water, reduce reliance on septic systems, and live more sustainably. Whether you’re traveling in an RV, living off-grid, or simply want a greener lifestyle, composting toilets offer convenience and environmental benefits.
If you’re looking for the best composting toilet, consider the Nature’s Head Composting Toilet for travel and tiny homes, or larger systems like the Sun-Mar Excel for family households.
Call to Action: Ready to explore composting toilets? Visit Agzora.com for eco-living tips, sustainable gardening guides, and recommendations on the best composting toilet systems for your needs.
