Environmentally friendly camping toilets: an article.

[calibusje]

Environmentally friendly camping toilets

Separating toilets work without water or electricity. How does it work and what differentiates the many models?
Article in Promobile.de from 01/05/2024

Chemiefreie Trenntoiletten fürs Camping: Umweltfreundliche Camping-WCs

Trenntoiletten funktionieren ohne Wasser und Strom. Wie funktioniert das, und was unterscheidet die vielen Modelle?

www.promobil.de

For your convenience, I translated it via Google translate, but for more photos I refer to the article itself.
I don't have a preference or anything; this is purely informative for those interested. We use a porta potti 335 with bags: that's how we have a ‘separate toilet’
So, here we go; enjoy!

Wc

docs.google.com

Greetings
Calibusje

 

[calibusje]

Suppose the link to my document does not work, below is the article in 3 parts in English.

PART 1

Environmentally friendly camping toilets

Separating toilets work without water or electricity. How does it work and what differentiates the many models?
Separating toilets for camper vans and motorhomes
1. BioToi
2. Boxio Toilet
3. Campbee Hive Two Compact
4. Ecoshit Eco 1 Mini
5. Flexaport
6. Kildwick
7. Nature's Head (not very suitable for a cali)
8. Separett
9. Trelino
10. Trennto
11. Trobolo
+6 questions about the separating toilet test
And a Conclusion.

Many campers want a toilet that does not require chemical additives. Separating toilets meet this requirement and can be used in tents as well as in mobile homes.

First of all, a classification of the new separation toilets within the numerous types of camping toilets: The overarching category is called dry toilet . This means that no water is used in this toilet. Bucket toilets are also included in the outdoor area.

The models we tried are camping toilets. The liquids (urine) are separated from the solids (faeces) during the transaction using a separator insert below the seating area. At the front the urine flows into the canister, at the back the solids container waits for the stool.

Separating toilets for camper vans and motorhomes

These chemical-free toilets are suitable for use in camping vehicles. You can read how a separating toilet works here: https://www.promobil.de/zubehoer/trenntoiletten-campingbus-zubehoer/

1. BioToi

The BioToi separation toilet has a composting function as standard, the models with “L” in the name have a ventilation function . The urine tank with a so-called membrane closure to prevent odors holds 10 liters. The solids bucket with agitator has a volume of 15 liters.
BioToi

The special feature of the BoiToi is that, despite its compact dimensions, the toilet has an agitator and ventilation.
In the versions with the suffix "R" there is an agitator. Stirring is carried out using a hand crank , which is installed either on the left or right of the housing - the mechanical mixing is intended to support the composting process. The housing is made of stainless steel. For environmentally friendly recycling, the parts used are made of pure plastic.

According to the manufacturer, the BioToi separation toilet fits very well in compact vehicles and can, for example, be adapted to the sanitary box of the current Ford Westfalia Nugget. Depending on your needs, the separation toilet can be moved or permanently installed in the motorhome.

Dimensions (height/depth/width): 38.8/38.5/33.2 centimeters
Weight: approx. 6.5 kg
Load capacity up to: 200 kilograms
Price: from 1,299 euros, including fan unit

We show here how the installation of a BioToi separation toilet works.

2. Boxio Toilet

Boxio, separation toilet, plastic, dark gray

The Toilet Up base increases the seat and is another box.
This model is the practical one among the partition toilets: low price, low weight and the seat height can be varied several times. With the idea of producing all products in Eurobox format, the Rostock team has met with open ears from many campers. And yes, there is a bit of an airplane toilet feeling there too. The company processes recycled plastic, manufactures the products in Germany and – like all manufacturers represented here – maintains high social and environmental values.

Additional Euroboxes in different heights can be purchased for the separation toilet. This means that any number of seat heights can be achieved with one toilet. If you have Euroboxes in your storage space anyway, storing them is easy. Boxio even has a mobile washbasin in the same format. Who knows what's to come.

Manufacturer: Boxio
tested model: Toilet
Price: €159.90
Seat height: 26 cm (38 cm with Toilet Up, 50 cm with 2 small Euroboxes)
Dimensions (height x width x depth) : 28 x 30 x 40 cm
Weight: 3.8kg
Capacity: urine canister 5L, solids container 5L
Material: Body: recycled plastic container, polypropylene and polyethylene
Load capacity: 150kg
Spill protection urine canister: With the Safe Shell system, it has a very secure closure even during use.
+Space saving and very compact.
+Eurobox format makes storage easier in many cases.
+Not perceived as a toilet.
+The additional Toilet Up provides extra storage space underneath and offers the possibility of height adjustment.
+Water protection – can also be left outside in the rain.
+Seat with divider can be folded up and remains at the top.
-The lid is loose and cannot be closed tightly.
-No holder on the lid, folds down at the back when in use, very loud when closed.
-Corners a bit difficult to clean.
-Urine canister is transparent.

Conclusion: Practical and inexpensive compact toilet

3. Campbee Hive Two Compact

The chic design also makes the toilet an inconspicuous stool.
The manufacturer wants to combine findings from industry and nature in the spirit of lightweight construction in its toilets. Traveling with little weight also means sustainability. For this purpose, components are sometimes produced using 3D printing. Using honeycombs as a model, the Hamburg company produces robust toilets. The test model weighs 6.2 kilograms, making it only the fourth lightest in our selection. There is still room for improvement.

The unique Campbee design with attention to detail brings many advantages. Different bottom sizes fit on the seat - ideal for families with children of different ages. The front access allows a quick check of the urine level in the canister. The pushlock system makes emptying very easy. On the other hand, the canister always has to be removed before you can access the solids container.

Manufacturer: Campbee
tested model: Hive Two Compact
Price: €419
Seat height: 29.5 cm
Dimensions (height x width x depth): 37x34x38 cm
Weight: 6.2kg
Capacity: urine canister 2.5L, solids container 2.5L
Material: Body: FSC-certified birch multiplex, container: plastic mixture
Load capacity: 120kg
Spill protection urine canister: Lid with simple odor and spill lock made of silicone membrane
+Elegant design, is not perceived as a toilet.
+Easy to read filling level.
+Good compromise for the entire family with different needs.
+Good to use as a stool.
+Front flap for very easy emptying with pushlock closure.
+Urine canister with membrane closure to prevent tipping and odor formation.
+Lots of seating space - very good for big bottoms and for children who like to support themselves on the edge.

-Low volume of urine canister.
-Lid fastening with rubbers difficult for children to use.
-The seat cutout is a bit angular and presses more than on other models.
-Edge in the separating bowl means more cleaning effort.

Conclusion : Family-friendly model for different needs.

4. Ecoshit Eco 1 Mini

Ecoshit separation toilet, open, interior view, Eco 1 Mini
The urine level is visible through the recess in the front wall.
The name is program. The Bavarian family business is declaring war on chemical toilets. The Eco 1 Mini surprises with its design made of metal, plastic and wood. This sets it apart from other models. And: A wooden toilet seat is a pleasure for those who love sitting at a comfortable temperature. The processing is intended for robust handling. The compact model is relaxed and has no frills and is easy to transport thanks to the stamped handles and solid metal frame.

If you like, you can buy a lid, roll holder, tension strap and many other accessories. There is even a cheap DIY version without a lid. The many openings ensure there is no odor and reduce the formation of condensation. The large fill level display, which is easy to see from the outside, is just as practical. However, the Ecoshit has more cracks, edges and corners than usual. The aluminum parts require regular cleaning if you want the toilet to always look neat.

Manufacturer: Ecoshit
tested model: Eco Mini 1
Price: €360 without lid
Seat height: 35 cm
Dimensions (height x width x depth): 35x36x43 cm, with lid 35x36x44 cm
Weight: 4.5kg
Capacity: urine canister 5L, solids container 5.6L
Material: Body: aluminum, PVC, birch plywood, container: plastic
Load capacity: 150kg
Spill protection urine canister: Lid with simple odor and spill lock made of silicone membrane
+Compact, robust and easy to handle. Large level display directly visible from the outside.
+Dark insert for discreet removal.
+The toilet seat remains fixed at the top when changing the canister.
+Wooden toilet seat feels comfortable and warm.
+Roll holder included.
+All parts must be ordered individually.
+Can be used as a stool or step.

-Wooden lid is loose, tips over when leaned or falls on feet when removed.
-The solids canister is set higher, which means there is less volume at the top.
-Many edges, corners and cracks offer the potential for dirt to accumulate.
-Transparent canister.
-Model must be dry.

Conclusion: A model without bells and whistles for fans of well-thought-out systems.

 

[calibusje]

PART 2

5. Flexaport

Flexaport, separation insert, separation toilet, white toilet
Thanks to its use, solids no longer get into the tank.
This is not a complete toilet system, which is why the use of Flexaport is out of competition and receives no rating. Ultimately, the assessment depends heavily on the toilet you already have. It forms the basis for the Flexaport use, which converts the chemical toilet into a separation toilet, a sustainable solution. It works with portable versions as well as with permanently installed cassette toilets in caravans or motorhomes.

The crew from Lake Constance offers separation inserts for many common toilet models, and more are being added. The existing faecal cassette becomes a urine container using Flexaport. Solids go into dog poop bags or compostable paper wrappers. With permanently installed toilets, you can switch back to the original system at any time if the vehicle is to be sold. The Flexaport insert is a very simple option for testing a separation toilet for your own use without high costs and complex modifications before thinking about purchasing a new one.

Manufacturer: Flexaport
Tested model: Use for Enders/Fritz Berger toilet
Price: €34.90
Seat height: Depends on existing toilet model
Dimensions (height x width x depth): Dimensions of the existing toilet
Weight: Weight of the existing toilet
Capacity: Depends on toilet model, Flexaport solids container 0.75 L
Material: PVC or acrylic
Load capacity: Depends on toilet model
Spill protection urine canister: Depending on the toilet model available, usually with a tight screw cap
Conclusion : An alternative to the new separation toilet if a camping toilet already exists.

6. Kildwick

The Kildwick separating toilets are a snap-together kit system made of birch plywood. The toilet seat is made of bamboo. The toilet is manufactured in Germany. Urine canisters and solid waste buckets each hold 9.5 liters. The urine canister holds 9.5 liters, the solids container has a volume of 16 liters. This should allow an average of around 23 trips to the toilet and 17 solids tank sessions.

Kildwick Easy-Loo: The unique selling point of the Kildwick kit is that the separating insert is held firmly to the body with magnets in four places.

The special feature: The separating insert is held firmly to the body with magnets in four places. The toilet seat is attached to this with hinges. To empty the bowl and separating insert are removed from the body. The contents of the separating toilet can then be emptied from above.

The system comes without a fan. A 5 or 12 volt fan can be ordered for an additional charge. Litter and compostable fecal bags can also be ordered from the provider.

The Kildwick Trent toilets are available in three versions : Mini-Lo and Easy-Loo are suitable for use in compact campers, the premium version Fancy-Loo can even be connected to the vehicle tank in larger motorhomes.

Kildwick Easy-Loo
Dimensions (height/depth/width) : 42.2/47.8.6/47.0 centimeters
Weight: 12.26 kilograms
Load capacity up to: 150 kilograms
Price: 486.80 euros

Kildwick Miniloo
Kildwick
Miniloo: The recyclable separator insert is attached to the body with neodymium magnets.
Kildwick Mini-Loo
Dimensions (height/depth/width): 43.8/39.6/33.7 centimeters
Weight: 8 kilograms
Load capacity up to: 150 kilograms
Price: 579.90 euros

Kildwick Fancy Loo
Kildwick
The Fancy-Loo from Kildwick can hold up to 150 kg. The largest model from Kildwick is suitable for large campers or tiny houses.
Kildwick Fancy-Loo
Dimensions : 43 x 44 x 48 cm
Weight : 16.5 kg
Load capacity: 150 kg
Price : 839.90 euros

Kildwick Micro Loo

At Micro Loo you can feel in many places that people develop the products with passion. The Kildwick brand has British roots, but is now based in Leipzig. Among the numerous models available, we tried out the Micro Loo in a fully assembled version. A kit would also be available. Either way, you get a real seat with magnets or an extremely useful viewing slot on the urine canister.

The opening rod in the lid is used to lift the separating insert from the body to empty it.
However, there are no carrying handles for tent campers. The sharp corners of the box require caution around small children and tent walls. On the other hand, available additional parts such as a fan set and matching solar module make hobbyists' hearts beat faster. The Kildwick is therefore also a separation toilet for individualists who don't just buy something and put it there.

Manufacturer: Kildwick
tested model: Micro Loo
Price: €489.90
Seat height: 32 cm
Dimensions (height x width x depth): 34 x 34 x 39 cm
Weight: 7.5kg
Capacity: urine canister 5L, solids container 5L
Material: Body: untreated birch plywood, stainless steel, container: plastic
Load capacity: 150 kg Lid with simple odor and spill closure made of silicone membrane
Spill protection urine canister: Lid with simple odor and spill lock made of silicone membrane
+Viewing slot on the front to check the urine level without opening the toilet.
+Use the rod and slot to open the toilet cleanly and lift the separating bowl.
+Real toilet seat that is attached and removable with magnets.
+Very comfortable, even for tall and heavy people.
+Very good to use as a stool.
+Untreated wood is ideal for designing the toilet according to your own wishes.
+Many additional parts such as fans are available.
+Price-performance is selectable: kit variant or finished model.

-Wood must be treated before first use.
-Open lid does not stand on top and cannot be placed at the back.
-Sharp corners are not ideal for child safety and use in the tent.
-No handles or brackets for transport.

Conclusion : A toilet with a real toilet seat for individualists and DIY fans

7. Nature's Head

The Nature's Head is one of the smaller complete solutions on the market. It is made of polyethylene and stainless and can be connected to the vehicle tank.
Your urine tank holds 8.3 liters and can be connected to the vehicle tank . The solids tank is 22 liters.

8. Separett

The Swedish manufacturer Separett has been selling self-sufficient toilet systems since the mid-1970s. Separett's waterless toilets and some portable toilets use compostable organic waste bags made from corn starch.

Separett Rescue Camping 25

Probably the most rudimentary form of a dry toilet - with four hooks for the solids bag and a piece of garden hose that leads outside.

In principle, nothing more is needed. The solids tank is as large as the bag and the urine is drained directly. We just can't quite believe the promised 150 kg load on the polypropylene stool, as the Separett collapsed dangerously halfway through. If it is not needed, it can be dismantled and stored in the included bag.

Dimensions : 36 x 44.5 x 45 cm
Weight : 4 kg
Load capacity : 150 kg
Price : 119 euros

9. Trelino

Space problems? Then the Trelino S or M would be a candidate. The Trelino S is designed for compact vans.

The S version has a 3.5 liter urine tank and a 6 liter solids tank. The toilet seat is incorporated and the lid is made of birch wood. It's barely bigger than a beer crate. We only noticed one small downside: the magnets on the wooden lid are so strong that you always have to lift off the entire separating insert. A fan is not included; due to the small size, it is not necessary according to the manufacturer.

The Trelino M is slightly higher and is optionally available with a fan. It is available in a version made of plastic or birch multiplex with coating. The urine tank holds 5 liters, the solids container holds 8 liters in the PE version and 6 liters in the wooden version. The larger L version has a 10 liter urine canister and a 10.6 liter solids container.

The Trelino keeps a low profile in terms of color: the Trelino partition toilets are available in white or anthracite - with HPL finishing also in natural.

Trelino S

The most compact model looks like a cube with a wooden lid. Depending on your wishes, it is available in white or anthracite.
If you don't have much space in your camper, you should take a look at the small Trelino S.

Dimensions (height/depth/width) : 28.5/40/34.5 cm
Weight : 4.38 kg
Load capacity: 150 kg
Price: 419 euros

Trelino M

The medium Trelino M with all parts.
Dimensions (height/depth/width): 35/39/32.8 5 cm
Weight: 6.1 kg
Load capacity: 150 kg
Price: from 549 euros

Trelino L

The largest version is called Trelino L and the wooden version shown costs 799 euros.

Dimensions (height/depth/width) : 46.8/38.6/31.6 cm
Weight: 8.2 kg
Load capacity: 150 kg
Price: from 699 euros, in wood from 799 euros

Trelino Evo M

M denotes the medium size of the Trelino Evo series.
The quality and sophistication of this new product range not only demonstrate practical experience, but also the high level of development expertise of the Düsseldorf Trelino team. Carrying handles are integrated into the Evo M, and blue canisters make disposal more convenient, even in daylight. Many other features show how well thought out the conception of the Evo product range was. For example, when the canisters are removed, the separating insert remains on its own stand on top; so nothing drips next to it. The lid of the urine canister has an odor and spill stopper made of a high-quality silicone membrane. On the toilet itself, the lid has an automatic soft-close mechanism, rare on camping toilets; Little fingers don't accidentally get caught, and there are no bangs at night that can wake up the neighbors in the tent. The entire system can be used as a seat and storage option.

Manufacturer: Trelino
tested model: Evo M
Price: €399
Seat height: 35cm
Dimensions (height x width x depth): 36 x 33 x 39 cm
Weight: 4.5kg
Capacity: urine canister 5L, solids container 8L
Material: Body: recyclable plastic (acrylonitrile-butane-styrene), container: recyclable polyethylene (planning: switching to recycled material)
Load capacity: 150kg
Spill protection urine canister: Lid with simple odor and spill lock made of silicone membrane
+Low weight and compact dimensions.
+Ergonomic seat element for very high comfort.
+Lid with soft-close automatic and secure fixation on the separating insert.
+Smooth, water-resistant material with high-quality workmanship without edges or cracks.
+Water protection – can also be left outside in the rain.
+Can be used very well as a stool.
+Internal system for containers with additional lid; no rattling and more hygiene.
+Carrying handles built into the body for easier transport

-Despite good ventilation and cleaning options, the solids container quickly absorbs odors.
-Separation between solids and urine canisters may be noticeable when sitting.
-Soft close automatic must first prove itself in long-term tests.

Conclusion : Plastic toilet that appears sophisticated down to the last detail

Anyone who appreciates clever design and high-quality workmanship as well as comfortable use will probably choose the Timber series from Trelino. Real wood gives the special touch, and the Düsseldorf manufacturer also uses resource-saving materials for the plastics that are processed in Germany.

The downside of the high quality and stability is the also quite high weight of 10 kilograms. When it comes to transport, “Function follows form” and carrying handles are not provided. A fan can be installed for an additional charge. Apart from that, the most expensive Trelino series scores not least with its extremely comfortable seating experience.

tested model: Timber M

Price: €599
Seat height: 35cm
Dimensions (height x width x depth): 39 x 31 x 37 cm
Weight: 10kg
Capacity: urine canister 5L, solids container 6L
Material: Body: birch multiplex with HPL coating, container: recyclable polyethylene
Load capacity: 150kg
Spill protection urine canister: Lid with simple odor and spill lock made of silicone membrane
+Stable and high-quality design with an elegant design.
+Comfortable and ergonomic seat.
+Leak protection on the urine canister.
+Very attractive workmanship of the lid holder with stainless steel hinges.
+Available in three colors to match the surroundings.
+Can be used very well as a stool.

-Very high purchase price.
-The lid folds back, if necessary onto the floor.
-Loud noise when closing the lid.
-Interior floor made of untreated wood, problematic to clean.
-No handle or indentation for transport.

Conclusion : Particularly elegant and high-quality design for high demands.

10. Trennto

A toilet almost like at home is the separator. The toilet bowl is a standard seat with a soft-close mechanism. The designer toilet is made by a carpenter, which is why delivery times may take longer.

It is also clear that the Separation is a camping toilet.
With its dimensions, the separator fits into most motorhomes. Since the toilet is made of veneered MFD panels (wood), it is not recommended to use it in a wet room. The removable solids bucket holds 10.5 liters, the urine canister is designed for 10 liters. Up to 30 sessions should fit into the solid container.

There is an optional fan set. Before purchasing, you can decide whether the fan should be installed on the left or right side of the toilet.

Dimensions (height/depth/width) : 45/46/36 centimeters
Weight : approx. 13 kilograms
Load capacity : min. 120 kg
Price: 1,399 euros

 

[calibusje]

PART 3: final part

11. Trobolo

The alder wood toilets from Hanover are in a class of their own both visually and tactilely. There are different models for campervans and tiny houses, optionally with a fan and exhaust.

Trobolo only uses wood from sustainable forestry. The separation toilet itself is manufactured locally by a craftsman.
The seat is loosely placed and can be removed for cleaning. Only: If you open the body to empty it, it falls down.

Trobolo Indi-Bloem

weighs 9.5 kg.
Dimensions : 31 x 46.5 x 47.50 cm
Volume of urine tank : 10 L
Volume of solids tank : 11 L
Agitator/fan : no/no
Material : Alder multiplex
Weight : 9.5 kg
Load capacity : 150 kg
Price : 689 euros

Trobolo Tera-Bloem

The simplest version of Trobolo is called Tera-Bloem and costs 429 euros.
Dimensions : 33 x 47 x 50 cm
Volume of urine tank : 10 L
Volume of solids tank : 11 L
Agitator/fan : no/no
Material : Alder multiplex
Weight : 12.7 kg
Load capacity : 200 kg
Price : 419 euros

Trobolo Luwe-Bloem

available for 679 euros. The manufacturer recommends them for tiny houses or gardens, as well as indoors.
Dimensions : 40 x 60 x 50 cm
Volume of urine tank : 10 L
Volume of solids tank : 22 L
Agitator/fan : no/optional (Leli-Bloem)
Material : Alder multiplex
Weight : 22 kg
Load capacity : 220 kg
Price : 549 euros
Trobolo Luwe- Buy Bloem in the partner shop

Trobolo Bila-Bloem

Trobolo's most expensive toilet is called Bila-Bloem. The urine is drained away; a connection to the vehicle tank is also possible.
Dimensions : 31 x 43.5 x 47.50 cm
Volume urine tank : drainage. Connection to vehicle tank also possible
Volume of solids tank : 11 L
Agitator/fan : no/yes
Material : alder multiplex
Weight : 10 kg
Load capacity : 180 kg
Price : 929 euros Buy

Trobolo Wanda Go

Thanks to a simple height adjustment using a reversible foot element, the Wanda Go is super comfortable; the higher of the two levels corresponds to the seat height of a standard toilet. This shows that the company from Hanover is not only looking for people who love to travel as a target group. Various areas of application from tiny houses to self-sufficient gardens are possible. Quality and comfort are based on domestic standards. In the plastic version tested, this toilet is still very light.

When transported, the Wanda Go is flat enough for toilet compartments in camper vans.
If you have a fixed location for your quiet place and for whom weight is not an issue, you can also use a heavier wooden model. The plastic design makes a very robust impression and won't suffer if Wanda Go is forgotten outside in the rain. Not using wood also makes quick, complete cleaning easier. With a system called Safe-Shell, Trobolo has also developed a spill and odor stop for the canister lid, which does not require early emptying on hot summer days.

Manufacturer: Trobolo
tested model: Wanda Go
Price: €249
Seat height: 30cm/49cm
Dimensions (height x width x depth): 31 x 34 x 38cm
Weight: 4.7kg
Capacity: urine canister 4.6 L, solids container 6.5 L
Material: polypropylene
Load capacity: 150kg
Spill protection urine canister: With the Safe Shell system, very secure closure, even during use
+Comfortable seat height thanks to the reversible base.
+Additional storage space through substructure.
+Paper container for attaching the roll to the side.
+Urine canister with a special lid to prevent sloshing and odors.
+The toilet lid stays up and doesn't close on its own.
+Water protection – can also be left outside in the rain.
+Small seat opening is particularly suitable for children and smaller people.

-Solids container has no handle.
-Handle of the urine canister is very easy to handle.
-The toilet lid has to be pressed into place with a lot of force, which is comparatively loud.
-Urine canister is transparent.
-Edge in the separating bowl without rounding increases cleaning effort.
-Paper container requires a special toilet roll format.

Conclusion : A comfortable model for users sensitive to odors

6 questions about our separating toilet test

1: Do I need any accessories for a separating toilet?

Although no chemicals are necessary, the permanent store is dried out with bedding after use. The most commonly used grit is made from wood, hemp, coconut, miscanthus (elephant grass or miscanthus) and activated carbon. These natural materials absorb odors best in the long term because they absorb moisture excellently. The drier the solids become, the fewer odors they form. Litter recommended by toilet manufacturers is both compostable and highly absorbent.
You probably only transport two toilets at once in a test, but comfort is a criterion.
Many types of grit are mixed with bacterial cultures. These promote the decomposition process of the solids during composting. Practical tip: Don't skimp on the bedding, otherwise unpleasant smells often arise. Other necessary accessories include bags for the solids container. Only those who are not afraid of cleaning can do without bags and inlays. For everyone else, it is recommended to use compostable, tear-resistant bags. There isn't much to consider when it comes to paper. Since the camping separation toilet works without chemicals, no decomposition processes need to be taken into account.

2: What do I have to prepare for if I want to switch from a chemical toilet to a separation toilet?

All of the separating toilets we tried arrived as a package and only needed to be put together. Then all you have to do is place a suitable – and environmentally friendly – bag in the solids container and a handful of wood chips. It seems strange the first time: a dry separation toilet actually doesn't need any water. The handling is very simple. Sit on it and let it flow. In the beginning, some practice is necessary to decide for yourself what the best sitting position is so that the stream of urine is aimed into the funnel at the front of the toilet area.

You may have to move back a little for the fixed deal. If only urine flows into the canister, the toilet lid can be closed again - without any further action. In the big business, a handful of litter is placed in the waste container before and after each bowel movement. It also covers the used toilet paper, because the paper also goes into the solids container. Close the lid and empty the canisters and containers if necessary.

3: Do separate toilets work equally well for women and men?

Now it gets a little detailed. Practice shows that women find it easier to cope with separate toilets. Please note for men: The dry toilet is not for those who pee standing up. Depending on the toilet model, the good piece must be pushed down in the front area. Otherwise it will rest depending on the size and depth of the urine bowl. That's absolutely fine, just not pleasant for every man. For larger statures, the business in the back area sometimes comes to an end because the seat openings are smaller than in conventional toilets. There is often a conflict when choosing the right model for families: large, wide seat opening for men, smaller ones for kids.

4: What do I have to pay attention to when emptying and cleaning?

Disposal of a separating toilet is very easy. In most models tested, the toilet insert can be quickly removed by simply opening the seat or using a lever mechanism. The two containers for urine and feces are located under the seat. The bag with the solids and toilet paper can either be thrown into the compost or tightly sealed and thrown into the household waste (like diapers). Remove the urine canister from the system and dispose of it using a toilet with a water connection.

Everything is completely natural: Many campers want a toilet that does not contain any chemical additives.
If there is no additive in the canister, the urine can be diluted with water in a mixing ratio of 1:10 and used as fertilizer in the garden. Each family has to find out the frequency of emptying for themselves. That depends on the use. Depending on the size of the container, the urine level in the canister should be checked regularly. As with any toilet, all parts must be cleaned regularly. There are various measures and means for this. Almost every manufacturing company offers suitable biological cleaners for their separate toilet systems.

5: What is particularly important when choosing the right model?

The price differences are large: camping toilets are available for self-assembly starting at around 120 euros. On the other hand, you also get very high-quality versions with appropriate materials. Here you have to expect prices over 500 euros. The means of transport also determines the weight and volume of the separation toilet. Are you going on vacation in a small car, van or motorhome? The question also arises: How long do you want and can you travel without having to empty your body? Depending on the answer, the containers for urine and feces must have the necessary capacity.

Important for handling: Is the model height-adjustable so that children also have a good toilet experience? A wide edge is beneficial for children so that they can hold on. How comfortable is it to sit on the toilet seat? Is the lid removable? Does it bang on the toilet seat when you close it, and does it stop on its own when you open it? How easily does it fit into the seating area and how well is it sealed? Can the toilet with the lid system also be used as a stool in the tent? Depending on the location, the question arises as to whether the quiet place is presentable. Further criteria for handling: How tight are urine canisters and solids containers?

Can liquid leak during transport? Are there sturdy handles or handles so that I can carry the toilet easily? Is the opening for emptying the container easy to use and can it be removed without putting the separator insert somewhere? Are there edges and cracks that are difficult to reach for cleaning? Another piece of information for women: white separating inserts are often used. If "woman" wants to avoid a monthly mess, she should prefer the gray version.

6: How did the practical test go and what were the experiences like?

The test subjects were women, men, teenagers and several smaller children from the tent children community who did the most test business between May 2022 and April 2023. There was also a trial run of the test models at the community meeting. No model failed the test. All models shown are stable and secure. In addition, every toilet has its strengths and weaknesses. The concept of the separating toilet was absolutely convincing. The hygienic process without chemical additives also helps to travel the world a little more sustainably.
Every new thing takes some time to get used to. The same goes for the dividing toilet. However, emptying is quick and is less complicated than expected for all models. Cleaning the dry toilets themselves is also hygienic and easy. Even the wooden partition toilets are very easy to clean. You no longer have to rely on special emptying stations during your trip. A simple household waste or compost and a connected toilet are enough for environmentally friendly disposal.
Conclusion
Depending on the space in your, you can now find a suitable separation toilet, even for compact campervans. Even campers with more extensive equipment requirements, such as strong ventilation, can now find the right product. Some separation toilets can even be permanently installed in large motorhomes and connected to a large tank. The environment will thank you and the search for a disposal station will be a thing of the past.
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[Corradobrit]

Very thorough review of the options. Luckily on board toilets beyond an emergency bog-in-a-bag type setup which I keep flatpacked in the bench drawer, are not high on the priority list. For a larger camper van with more space these could be a good alternative to the the ubiquitous Thetford.

 

[calibusje]

Very thorough review of the options. Luckily on board toilets beyond an emergency bog-in-a-bag type setup which I keep flatpacked in the bench drawer, are not high on the priority list. For a larger camper van with more space these could be a good alternative to the the ubiquitous Thetford.

Thanks (although I just placed a translated version of it ).
These are simply alternatives to the 'chemical toilet'; I don't give a preference or anything: as I said, this is an article that I translated for all of you out of fun and as info. Yet, lots of them are intended/suitable for a California, especially knowing that so many bring a porta potti with them.
I too bring a toilet (porta potti 335) for emergencies, especially at night. We use bags and that way it’s our ‘separation toilet’. There are 4 of us and during the day it is a seat or ottoman. We also have a foldable tripod toilet with bags, but we will take it with us on a next trip to test it and maybe this will become our emergency toilet like yours.
Anyway, one soon learn that there are plenty of options to use the toilet elsewhere where possible and if necessary.


Photo not ours but what it looks like: our ottoman/seat.

 

[CamperFam]

Wow thats thorough. I never thought i'd see such a detailed post about going to the toilet. But the highlight so far has definitely been finding a toilet called an EcoShit. I cant see that sitting on store shelves easily

 

[calibusje]

Wow thats thorough. I never thought i'd see such a detailed post about going to the toilet. But the highlight so far has definitely been finding a toilet called an EcoShit. I cant see that sitting on store shelves easily

Thx; Yes, that name says it all

 

[vmaxkiddy]

I’ve never heard of taking a dump called a transaction before , live and learn.

 

[calibusje]

I’ve never heard of taking a dump called a transaction before , live and learn.

Thanks for taking the time to read it. It's great that you appreciate my effort to translate this (largely Google translate) and me reading it over to adjust where necessary. I must have overlooked something. It happened while I was sitting on the toilet taking a transaction, maybe that was the cause I will try harder.