From farm to table and back again

By definition, composting is the natural process of recycling organic matter, such as leaves, vegetable scraps, and other decomposable materials, into a rich soil amendment known as compost. Through the action of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi organic materials are broken down in a controlled environment. This decomposition occurs under conditions that promote aerobic digestion, where oxygen helps break down the material into a nutrient-rich, humus-like substance. Composting reduces waste in landfills, returns essential nutrients back to the earth, and helps improve soil health and structure.

First of all, importantly, not all waterless toilets are true composting toilets. There are many small-sized waterless toilets falsely advertised as “composting toilets” on market. For more information, read the Truth About Composting Toilets: Not All Waterless Options Complete the Cycle.

True composting toilets come in two main types: batch composting toilets and continuous composting toilets. Batch composting toilets use multiple containers filled sequentially and left to compost. Continuous composting toilets have a single chamber that is gradually emptied from the back or bottom, removing ready compost in portions while fresh waste remains on top.

In addition, composting toilets may be further divided into subcategories of self-contained composting toilets and split-system composting toilets. The difference between self-contained and split-system composting toilets is technical.

Self-contained composting toilets are installed directly on bathroom floor level. You literally sit on the composting toilet unit to do your thing. Split-system composting toilets on the other hand have an external composting unit located underneath the bathroom floor level. The under-the-floor composting unit is then connected to on-floor toilet pedestal by a waste pipe.

Both systems, self-contained and split-systems have their pros and cons. Which is best for you, depends on a number of factors including the bathroom structure, number of toilet users, personal preferences etc. Read more about split-systems and self-contained composting toilets.

Traditionally, composting toilets are purchased for outdoor outhouses at cabins, cottages and campgrounds, but increasingly they are also chosen for indoor use. The right model and proper installation ensure that the composting toilet is completely odorless, easy to maintain, and comfortable to use. In addition to wooden and plastic-made toilet models, models equipped with a porcelain toilet, have become highly popular. They are perfectly suitable for indoors and year-round use.

The most common question we at Waterless Toilet Shop encounter is: does it smell? 

Modern new composting toilets are completely odorless. There is no smell whatsoever coming from the toilet. That is because the composting toilets separate excess liquid from the solid waste, keeping the compost perfectly moist: not too wet & not too dry.

Some people have bad experiences of smelly outhouses and public off the grid restrooms. That’s because there are a lot of “composting toilets” without any sort of liquid separation and/or proper ventilation. If the liquid is not properly separated from the solid waste, the compost with in the toilet becomes too wet for natural composting process – and it rots. Rotting produces ammonia which is the compound causing the horrible smell. Toilets like this are not composting toilets.

Fortunately, the world has changed for the better in this regard. A true composting toilet is indeed totally odorless in and outside the bathroom. The key to this is 1) working separation of excess liquid and 2) efficient ventilation of the composting toilet.

Here at Waterless Toilet Shop, we come into the picture! We have years of experience with waterless sanitation. We offer to ensure your waterless toilet installation is successful. So ask us for more information!

A composting toilet generally produces two types of end products: liquid and solid compost.

The solid compost is most often used as a fertilizer for example at gardens and backyards for trees, bushes and other non-edible plants.

Liquid waste from a composting toilet can often be used to irrigate the same plants and trees, unless there are high water levels or nearby bodies of water such as lakes, ponds, or the sea.

Please note that different states and counties in the U.S. have varying regulation on how composting toilet material can be reused on a property. Please consult your local officials before purchasing a composting toilet.

Yes, composting toilets can absolutely be used in a cold climate. The only real impact of colder temperatures is that it extends the time it takes for waste to fully decompose.

How long the composting process takes depends on the location and when the composting toilet is serviced:

• In warmer months: If the toilet is serviced in spring (e.g., in Maine or Colorado), the waste has warm spring, summer, and early fall to compost, and it may be ready in 6–8 months.
• In colder months: If the toilet is serviced in late fall, the composting process will likely pause during winter and resume in spring, often requiring 12 months or more for full decomposition.

With proper planning—like using batch systems or self-contained units—composting toilets remain highly effective and convenient in colder climates.

Learn more about using a composting toilet in a cold climate.

Another common question people have about composting toilets is if they require any sort of material to be added to the compost.

The answer is, yes, generally all composting toilets call for organic bulking agents such as hemp, peat or coconut coir. The bulking agents has two basic purposes: 1) improve the compost quality 2) cover the waste from view. However, it should be noted that the use of covering material is not mandatory.

Most composting toilets on the market, including the ones we offer at the Waterless Toilet Shop, do not require covering material to be added after every use. It is very common, especially in public use composting toilets that the covering material is added e.g. once a week greater amount. The covering material can be added either through the porcelain seat or directly into the composting unit under the bathroom level. If it is a self-contained composting toilet, such the Oz-e-Pod or Green Toilet Easy, then the covering material is added through the seat.