Did you ever think that your toilet could make compost for your garden? Yes, this is possible with composting toilets. This is a specialized toilet system that is eco-friendly. You can replace your ordinary toilet seat with this.
Because of eco-friendliness and versatility, lots of brands are producing this amazing product. But this large number of products will make you confused. It is challenging to find the best composting toilet from this extensive collection.
You are reading this article means you don’t need to be worried. This article contains the top 10 products. The composting toilet reviews here will let you know which one to buy. Each product on the list is chosen by the expert research team.
Here’s our picks:
- Editor’s Pick: Nature’s Head Self Contained Composting Toilet
- Runners Up: Camco Portable Travel Toilet
- The Best Budget Buy: Nature’s Head Composting Toilet with Spider Handle
What is a Composting Toilet?
If you are new to this particular product, maybe you are wondering what this thing actually is! Well, from the exterior, this kind of toilets look the same as the regular one.
You need to install it in the same position as a regular toilet. But the mechanism is inside of it. The toilet follows a biological process which is known as composting. Human excreta have some elements in it that could be helpful for the healthy growth of trees. The toilet will bring out those useful elements.
With the decomposition process, it will turn human excreta into composite like the regular compost. But in the process, it won’t destroy the pathogens.
As a result, you can apply this compost for the healthy growth of plants in the garden.
Why Need A Composting Toilet?
As you are going to spend enough for a good composting toilet, you may want to know why you should use this. Well, there are several reasons that the product is becoming popular. It can help you in different ways.
The first thing is, this is actually convenient to use. If the plumber can’t reach your area, you can install it yourself. This item used to come in a compact size. So, if you are living in a tiny apartment or studio apartment, this could be a good thing.
Currently, at least four regions in the USA are struggling with water supply. Areas where water supply is not guaranteed for all day, the composting toilet might help.
Instead of flushing with water, it comes with negative pressure inside that keeps the toilet clean. Though the user doesn’t have to use water, there won’t be any bad odor. You are saving water and saving the environment.
At the same time, you get enough compost for your garden. The good thing is, this compost is even better than the one that available in fertilizer stores. You can ensure a healthy living style with this type of toilet.
Types of Composting Toilets
All composting toilets don’t come in the same style or same feature. Based on the mechanism and the power supply that is used, there are mainly four different types of products. Which are:
Dry Composting Toilet:
This type of toilets doesn’t use water for flushing. Instead, it uses negative pressure for cleaning the surface. Most composting toilets come in this style. Read some waterless toilet reviews in this article to know more.
Electric Composting Toilet:
Some modern items come with an electrical fan to enhance the process. It requires electricity. With the airflow through the ventilation line, it cleans the toilet and produces compost.
Solar Composting Toilet:
As the name suggests, solar composting toilets come with a cell in it, the solar panel gets charges in the daylight and provides backup for the fan in the toilet. Even some toilets can supply backup power with the charged battery.
Portable Composting Toilet:
Portable composting toilets widely use in RV cars, tiny apartments, and remote areas. It is easy to assemble and disassemble. When you are traveling to some remote areas with the RV, you can use a portable one. With a minimal level of water, you can live in extreme areas. Moreover, there is less hassle of emptying the toilet.
List of 10 Best Composting Toilet Reviews
After checking the features, customer feedback, price, average rating, and some other facts, we have sorted out the top products. Though we primarily selected more than 20 products, here we have shared only 10 which has the best features.
This Nature’s Head composting toilet is one of the best items in the list that comes with a mid-range price. If you don’t want to spend thousands of bucks for a single item, you should go for this. It is a self-contained product for users’ convenience.
Highlighted Features:
Portable Design ““ This item comes in a portable design that you can easily move here to there. Just disassemble the toilet without any tools and move where you want. Also, assembling from scratch is easy.
Full-Size Seat ““ Instead of a tiny space for sitting, it features a full-size elongate seat for comfort. It won’t hurt your back. It uses the best cover material for composting toilet to ensure longevity.
Fan Included ““ This product comes with a built-in fan for convenience. This turns the excreta into compost easily. Moreover, it comes with the vent hose.
Stainless Hardware ““ You don’t have to clean the entire surface of the toilet regularly. The hardware is stain-resistant. It is not mandatory to clean the hardware regularly.
Versatile ““ It suits for all outdoor events. For example, you can carry it for camping, boating, etc. outdoor events.
What We Liked:
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- It is made in the USA.
- It is lightweight and easy to carry.
- No hassle in assembling and disassembling.
- Granite material for durability.
- Requires less cleaning the hardware.
- Doesn’t cause bad odor.
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What We Didn’t Like
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- The installation process is kind of complex
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Why do We recommend It?
Despite other products in the same price range, we picked it because of extreme durability. As you may have to move the toilet several times, the durable construction provides safety for the exterior.
Most of the composting toilets may take enough time for the full process. But if you want to speed up composting, this item from Nature’s Head is a good option for you. Besides fast processing, this is a long-lasting product.
Highlighted Features:
Dry Composting ““ The best thing in this toilet is its dry composting system. While some toilets require a water supply, here the process will be done dry. You don’t need to bother about the water supply. Moreover, you can save the utility bill with this item.
User-Friendly ““ Unlike some products, you don’t need much technical knowledge to use it. The operation and the features are user-friendly. Whether you are new or an expert user, you will like the operating system.
Easy Installation ““ Some high-end products come with a critical installation system and you might have to hire a plumber. But when you are in a remote area, you can use this one that allows for hassle-free installation. No need to spend additionally to hire a plumber.
All Included ““ You don’t need any additional attachment to use the toilet. All pieces of stuff are included with it. For instance, it comes with the crank handle, vent hose, and 12v power plug.
What We Liked:
- Easy installation without expert help.
- Compact size for portability.
- It requires less time for composting.
- Lightweight enough for easy carrying.
- Ideal for all outdoor events.
- Molded designed for users’ convenience.
What We Didn’t Like
- The exterior is not 100% stain-resistant
Why do We recommend It?
This is the best composting toilet for a tiny house that has less price. It won’t take much time for the installation and requires less maintenance. The lightweight design allows you to carry it conveniently for RV cars, boating, camping, etc. Produces good quality compost that is beneficial for your plants.
BEST VALUE
Nature’s Head Composting Toilet With Spider Handle
Did you struggle with bad odor with your old composting toilet? Looking for a good alternative? Then we would highly suggest checking the features of this item from Nature’s Head. This composting toilet allows processing high-quality compost.
Highlighted Features:
Larger Capacity ““ Sometimes the biggest problem with a composting toilet is you need to clean it every week. No such issues in this item. It comes with a huge capacity that 2 people can use full time and need to empty every 4 to 6 weeks.
Easy Installation ““ Worried about the cost of hiring a plumber? Don’t worry anymore! This composting toilet features an easy installation system. It doesn’t require much knowledge or expertise like a professional plumber. Only the basic knowledge about bathroom fitting is enough to complete the installation.
No Odor ““ As we mentioned earlier, this one is popular because of its odorless performance. Just make sure you are following the user-manual and using the toilet as instructed. That is enough to keep it clean and stay odor-free all day long.
Less Maintenance ““ Don’t you have much time for the maintenance of the toilet? No issues! You don’t have to apply water or clean it. Moreover, the composting process is almost automated that you don’t need to put much effort.
What We Liked:
- Best for marine or RV sanitation.
- Suits for small cottages and guest rooms.
- Hassle-free installation.
- It can hold 60-80 uses.
- Doesn’t cause bad odor once it is used.
What We Didn’t Like
- The seat is not comfortable as expected
Why do We recommend It?
This is a good solution for people who DIY products. Following the user guidelines, you can install it yourself. Most outdoor events could be better when you are carrying this compact composting toilet with you.
Do you prefer portability in everything? If so, you might like to use portable toilets that are easy to carry. This Camco (41541) is a good portable toilet with enough capacity. If you want to stay hygiene when going for some outdoor visits, this item should be your companion.
Highlighted Features:
Lightweight ““ The most common issue with most of the portable toilet is the weight. You can’t carry a bulky toilet to your campsite. But this one won’t disappoint you. It weighs only 10.8 pounds. Even you can carry this toilet using only one hand.
Compact ““ The compact design of the toilet allows us to fit the toilet in a very tiny space. It can perfectly fit an RV, small cottage, and more. This item is especially suitable for boating as there is a very tiny space to attach an additional thing.
Larger Capacity ““ This portable toilet has enough capacity. The holding tank has a 5.3-gallon capacity and the flush tank has a 2.5-gallon capacity. So, you can use the toilet multiple time without any hesitation.
Detachable Holding Tank ““ For emptying the toilet, you don’t need to carry the whole thing. Just detach the holding tank and carry it for emptying.
Leak proof ““ This is disgusting when you have a bad odor in the toilet. The leakproof design of this item keeps the surrounding odor-free.
What We Liked:
- Price is affordable for all.
- Doesn’t cause odor.
- Sealing slide valve locks the toilet and prevents leakage.
- Portable and lightweight.
- Easy to carry for any purpose.
What We Didn’t Like
- The material is not as durable as granite
Why do We recommend It?
This is an easy to use portable toilet that has a convenient detachable holding tank. For one or two people, this suits perfectly and doesn’t need to clean daily.
Looking for something convenient that perfectly fits a tiny space? Then you should purchase this item from ZIMMER. It comes with enough capacity that you can carry this when going camping, fishing, boating, etc. activities. Besides great features, its price is affordable for all.
Highlighted Features:
Great Portability ““ The most attractive feature in this product is its portable design. Whether you are setting it inside your home or carrying it into some remote areas, requires a small space for the setting. In RVs, this item could be the best solution. The lightweight design allows to carry it comfortably wherever you want.
Sturdy Construction ““ Unlike some cheaply made portable toilets, this one comes with durable construction. It features a full-size seat for added comfort and suits to both kids and adults. It can tolerate heavy weight without any issues.
Waste Tank ““ The best thing in this item is its larger capacity. While some products have a minimal waste storage area, it comes with 5-gallon of waste capacity. Moreover, there is a freshwater tank attached to it that can store 3-gallon of water. You can flush the toilet after using it.
Slide Valve ““ The toilet contains a slide valve in it. This valve allows the users for emptying the waste tank. Once it is done, you can tightly close the valve which prevents leaking. As a result, there won’t be any bad odor.
What We Liked:
- Easy to remove the freshwater tank.
- Slide valve to move the waste from it.
- Handles on each side for convenient carrying.
- High-density polyethylene for durability.
- The 5-gallon waste capacity allows for 60-70 flushes.
What We Didn’t Like
- This is not 100% leakproof.
Why do We recommend It?
If you have a habit of traveling frequently in extremely remote areas, this toilet could save you from lots of hassle. It is highly portable and easy to carry. It doesn’t require much effort for maintenance.
If you would like to purchase a modern designed toilet to carry when going for some adventurous tours, you should go for this item. Besides modern design, it is highly durable and has a better capacity for waste.
Highlighted Features:
Attractive Look ““ Once you get this product delivered to you, you will like the appearance of it. instead of some conventional portable toilets, it features a modern and sleek design. No matter where you are setting the toilet, it will look better.
Versatile Design ““ This is a versatile product. It is not mandatory to use it only outdoor. You can also perfectly fit it with the built-int attachment to the floor. Other than that, it supports for RVs, trucks, vans, boats, and more.
Ease of Use ““ This product is highly portable that doesn’t require much effort for carrying. It comes with a curved handle to carry it. Once you have used it, no hassle in the cleaning.
Smart Operation ““ Smart mechanism is used in it for user-friendliness. You can conveniently pour the waste for emptying it. Just move the valve attached to the waste tank. An integrated toilet paper holder keeps you comfortable.
What We Liked:
- Great comfort on the seat.
- 50+ flush capacity with a single fill.
- Mess-free cleaning with valve.
- Comes with sanitary spout cap.
- Tank level indicator for convenience.
- Highly portable with a lightweight.
What We Didn’t Like
- It is comparatively pricey.
Why do We recommend It?
This is the most comfortable portable toilet in the market. Though it seems pricey, you will actually like this item a lot because of the appearance and longevity.
One can use a portable toilet for a wide range of causes. But if your main focus is to use the toilet for camping, this VINGLWE portable toilet would be the best pick. This is a super-convenient product that doesn’t require any expertise to use.
Highlighted Features:
Compact Design ““ Though it is not uncommon that the product comes in a compact size, but the fact is, this one is super compact. It is so easy to move here to there. When you are at home, it can fit a narrow space. When going camping, carry it on the car trunk. Furthermore, it is a lightweight product that is easy to handle when empty.
Strong Flushes ““ No struggle in cleaning the toilet. It ensures stronger flushes to keep it clean and usable for next time. It features a 3-way flush nozzle for users’ convenience. It includes an Upgraded piston pump that creates ample pressure for deep cleaning.
Better Capacity ““ To have a larger capacity, it is built with a 5.3-gallon detachable waste holding tank. To flush after usages. a 3-gallon water tank us included. This allows for up to 95 flushing.
Odorless ““ First of all, the toilet is leakproof. So, no chance is causing the odor. The next thing is, when cleaning the tank, it won’t cause any issues. Easy to empty the tank with a splash-free rotating pour spot.
What We Liked:
- Compact and lightweight for easy transport.
- Liquid level display to know the inner waste amount
. - Hassle-free carrying with built-in handles.
- The larger capacity of waste and flush tank.
- Stronger flash to keep it clean and odorless.
What We Didn’t Like
- Toilet setup is a little bit short.
- Not very good for toilet paper.
Why do We recommend It?
VINGLWE portable toilet comes with a reasonable price and all essential features. It is a compact item which you can easily carry wherever you want.
Don’t you want to spend much on a portable toilet? Well, that is ok if you are going to use it occasionally. For example, you may want to use it only when going camping. If so, you should purchase this Camco Premium portable toilet.
Highlighted Features:
Compact ““ The main goal of this item is to keep it portable and super compact. It best suits for traveling remote areas where you can’t arrange a regular toilet. The dimension is just perfect to fit in an RV, truck, boat, and similar areas. You may also use it for camping.
Ease of Use ““ You don’t need to be an expert to use this toilet when you are outside of the home. It is so easy to use and flush. No hassle in emptying the tank when it is full. It features a sliding gate valve that allows removing the waste.
Larger Capacity ““ Though it is a portable toilet, this is enough for a small family when going for a picnic. The holding tank is detachable and it can hold 5.3 gallons of waste. On the other side, the flush tank has a 3.75-gallon capacity.
Stays Clean and Odorless ““ This item features a pumping flush action. This keeps the inside super clean. The sliding valve keeps the tank leakproof by sealing it. So, there will be no embracing odor in it.
What We Liked:
- 5.3-gallon waste holding capacity.
- Pumping flush for deep cleaning.
- Slick abs material to prevent odor.
- Swivel dumping elbow for easy emptying.
- Super compact and fits anywhere.
What We Didn’t Like
- It is comparatively bulky.
Why do We recommend It?
This unit comes with extreme durability. You can use the same toilet for years. Moreover, it is comfortable and doesn’t hurt the back.
Self-contained portable toilets are best when you want to stay comfortable. This item is such a product which is totally self-contained and fits any condition. Super compact and easy to transport.
Highlighted Features:
Super Compact ““ It is a super compact toilet for a wide range of purposes. While you are going for any kind of outdoor thing, you can carry this item with you with less effort. Also, it weighs only 11 lbs. which is comfortable to carry with one hand. Comfortable to use for road trips.
Ease of Use ““ No particular expertise needed to use this item. Even you don’t have to fit with any additional thing. It comes with secure waste disposal for users’ convenience. Just move the detachable waste tank and make it empty.
Comfortable Seat ““ Instead of a small seat, it features a full-size seat. So, when using the toilet, you will be comfortable.
Leakproof ““ It is built with a double-sealed drain and held with secure side latches. There is no chance of any leaking from the tank. This ensures that the surrounding is remaining odorless.
What We Liked:
- Dual spray jets for flush.
- Sturdy construction for longevity.
- Secure waste disposal for users’ convenience.
- Requires less assembling on the seat.
- 440 lbs. weight capacity.
- Suitable for all areas and all conditions.
What We Didn’t Like
- Some users didn’t like the round seat.
Why do We recommend It?
For any areas where the toilet is unavailable, this could be a good companion. There is no hassle in carrying and it suits for boating, camping, road trips, etc. events.
This item is the best for money. We would highly recommend this unit for people who are struggling to find a good product within a tight budget. Despite a low price, it covers all essential features. Mostly suits for RVs and other necessities.
Recommended Article: Best RV Toilet
Highlighted Features:
Better Capacity ““ Though it is a low-priced product, still there is enough capacity for waste holding. The detachable tank of the toilet can hold up to 5 gallon which is equivalent to 20 liters. Besides, there is a freshwater tank.
Easy to Clean ““ When the tank is full and you want to clean it, just use the latches lock. Open it and connect to waste disposal to make it empty.
Enough Area of the Seat ““ The seat is both comfortable and has enough area on it. An adult can comfortably sit on it. The seat post size is 13.59″ x 12.61″.
Lasts Longer ““ If you compare this one with similar products, you will find it is long-lasting. The main material is PP/ABS/PE which is durable enough. If you use it with care, it will last longer than even expensive products.
What We Liked:
- Easy cleaning with a flush of freshwater.
- Larger waste tank to hold wastes.
- Easy to empty it when the tank is full.
- Strong enough to stand itself.
- Comfortable sitting position.
- 3-gallon capacity water tank for flushes.
What We Didn’t Like
- Not a good one for people with heavyweight.
Why do We recommend It?
This item is budget-friendly. All the essential features are available in it and perform better than similar products. It is easy to use and doesn’t cause odor.
Features To Consider Before Buying
Though buying the best composting toilet depends on several factors, there are some facts that you must consider. Here we have discussed the things that matter most for a composting toilet.
Self-Contained Vs Central:
If you check the process of turning human excreta into composting, you will find that some are self-contained and some are centrally designed.
Let me go deeper.
When a product is labeled as self-contained, it means the whole process will happen inside this. You can directly collect the compost from it. But some products are designed for a central system.
This kind of toilets produces the compost somewhere else where it is monitored centrally. As an individual, you should pick a self-contained one.
Ease of Installation:
Based on the style and the brand, the installation of a composting toilet may vary. For instance, some items are designed with complex features and it must have to install by a professional plumber. That could be a hassle for you as you may want to use it in a remote area.
So, check the installation process if you can do it yourself or not. Order something that allows for tools free installation and doesn’t require much expertise.
Maintenance:
Even if you have purchased the best composting toilets, you still need to maintain it properly. When I am using the term ‘maintain’, it includes everything that you need to do when using it. The first thing is, how do you need to collect the compost once it is done.
Is it simple and easy?
Also, if the toilet is designed for dry cleaning, make sure the process is effective and doesn’t require much effort. If your selected item requires regular maintenance, that may not be a good thing to buy. Because it could be tough for any individual to spend extra time on it.
Capacity:
You already know that this kind of product used to store everything in the holding tank. After a certain period, the particular mechanism starts working and make the compost.
Now, how much compost can it make and what is the waste capacity that should be your concern. If the toilet comes with a larger capacity, you can use this for a long time without emptying the holding tank. If it uses water, there may have a tank for freshwater.
Check the capacity of this tank to know how many flushes could be done with it.
Compact:
The necessity of a Camco (41541) Portable Composting Toilet differs from person to person. For instance, you may want to use this product as an environment-friendly thing.
But some people want to use it for remote areas or want to carry it whenever they want. To carry the toilet to different places, you need to check the weight of this item.
At the same time, check for the total dimension of the product to know how much space does it needed. To be comfortable, there is no alternative to buying something compact.
Electrical or Non-Electrical:
To produce compost, different composting toilets use a variety of methods. Based on the power source, they come in two different styles which are electrical and non-electrical.
The electrical one is better when you want to speed up the process. On the other hand, if you want to save utility bills, the Sun-Mar Excel Non-Electric Self-Contained composting toilet should be your pick.
Benefits of Composting Toilet Systems:
It’s obvious that this particular product has some unique benefits that attract consumers to purchase it. Here are the top benefits of using a composting toilet at your home or anywhere else.
It’s Eco-Friendly:
To save the earth, there is no alternative to being environment-friendly. Alpcour Portable Toilet is eco-friendly. You don’t just let it go to the sewerage line. Instead, you use the human excreta for something useful and save the eco-system.
Reduce Utility Bill:
On average, Americans usage most of the water for flushing the toilet. A dry composting toilet will save a good portion of water and you will immediately see the result. There will be a reduction in the utility bill.
Compact Size:
It is a convenient thing and easy to install. Moreover, most of the products come in a compact size that easily fits a tiny space. For small apartments and dormitories, this could be a blessing. In remote areas, you can have your own lifestyle with it.
Free Compost:
Compost is not free and you have to pay enough to get a bag. But when you own a composting toilet at home, you will get enough supply of it for free. This is beneficial for your plants and doesn’t need extra maintenance costs.
Installing A Composting Toilet
Installation of a compost toilet is a crucial part. Because if you don’t install it properly, it won’t serve the main purpose. You won’t get any compost fertilizer from it. Proper installation would give you a good result.
Now, there are two ways to install this thing. Either you can do it yourself or you may hire a professional to do this. Hiring professionals can cost you high and that is not a feasible thing. So, it would be great if you do it yourself.
To start the installation process, the first thing you need to ensure is: you have read the user manual properly. Because whatever the product is, it will instruct the user how to do the installation. If you are fixing it in a particular area, you can go for permanent installation. But when attaching it to your RV, or want to carry for other outdoor activities, choose the installation area properly.
Assemble the toilet and fix it to the place as you want. There may have an air hose or ventilation hose, give it enough space. If it comes with a water tank, secure it in a good place.
Also, the waste tank should be safe and leakproof. So, choose a safe place for the holding tank. If everything ok, you can use the toilet for the first time.
Tips for Maintaining A Composting Toilet
If you expect the best performance from a composting toilet, you should maintain it well. Like anything else, a well-maintained composting toilet will reduce your hassle. Here are some tips that you should follow ““
- When installing it, make sure you are following the guidelines written on the user-manual. Don’t take any risk otherwise you may damage it.
- Don’t wait to fill the holding tank. Instead, empty and clean when it is a little bit empty.
- If you are using a dry composting toilet, when using it, aim properly to avoid a mess.
- Almost all toilets have a separate system for peeing, use that one instead of the whole system.
- The toilet may have a weight capacity, don’t exceed that limit.
- When emptying the holding tank, be slow and do the work properly.
- Instead of flushing twice to remove odor, use a toilet odor spray.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):
Can I Use Toilet Paper When Using The Composting Toilet?
Yes, you can. There is no issue with toilet paper as it is known as a disposable thing. The toilet can easily convert it into compost. However, make sure you are using a good organic one.
Does The Composting Toilet Cause Bad Odor?
Well, there is a misconception among most of the people that a c composting toilet would cause a bad smell.
But the scenario is not the same for all products. For instance, if it is using a dry composting system, there must be a negative pressure inside which keeps it clean.
Also, close the sealing valve after emptying to prevent leakage. If you follow these things, there won’t be any odor.
Can I Pee In A Composting Toilet?
Why not! Composting toilets are designed for your nature call.
Whatever the need is, you can use the toilet. Urine will mix with the solid and it will process the compost.
However, for dry composting, avoid toughing too many papers in it.
How Long Does It Take To Produce Compost?
It depends on the toilet you are using and which process does it follow. Based on the brands and products, this will differ.
A self-contained composting toilet may need to empty in each week and it will then turn the solid into compost. Some bigger products may have a larger tank and take more time for composting. In some cases, you can even speed up the process with a crank handle.
Where Can I Use The Compost?
Before you are using the compost, check the rules and regulations of your state about disposing of human waste. If it allows using the compost as fertilizer, you may apply it to the soil of your garden.
However, if you don’t want to take any risks, don’t use it for edible plants.
Final Words:
Finding thebest composting toiletis not a difficulty for you anymore. Each of the products on the list is great for different conditions. Just check the features and the size, order one for you.
If you want to compare similar products, just follow the buying guide and find some good products. Once it is done, you can compare them and finalize the right one. If you want to stay worried free, read about the warranty and return policy before ordering.