Composting toilets materials: an overview

Dry composting toilets come in many different variations. All of them work in the same way: They separate liquid from solid and prevent odors from forming by drying the large business.

While the inside remains the same, there are definitely differences on the outside. Separating toilets vary in size, weight and also materials.

Which composting toilet materials suit you best depends on your individual needs and choice of location. You can find helpful information about which criteria generally play a role in the selection of the perfect quiet toilet in our large buying guide to composting toilets.

Right here, right now, you'll learn all about the different composting toilet materials, their pros and cons, and the best application options.

Why composting toilets materials play a role

When considering the material of your composting toilet, it is not only aesthetics that play a decisive role. It is even more important to consider the properties. Ask yourself the following questions when choosing the right material:

• How heavy can your composting toilet be?

• How flexible do you want to use it?

• Where will it stand, and will it get wet there?

• How easy should cleaning and maintenance be?

• What is your budget?

All these points influence the decision for one or against the other material of composting toilets.

Common materials for composting toilets

Plastic

Most composting toilets are made of plastic. Due to its versatility, the material offers many advantages and is therefore very popular.

If every gram counts in the van, plastic is unbeatable due to its low weight. Separating toilets made of plastic are virtually the flyweights among camping toilets.

Plastic is absolutely water-resistant. This makes it particularly suitable for composting toilets in damp areas. This makes it possible to place your composting toilet permanently in the shower of your vehicle without damaging the material.

Plastic toilets are very easy and effective to clean. Due to their water resistance, you can even rinse them out with a garden hose if you are in doubt about heavy soiling.

One disadvantage of plastic is that the material can become brittle or discolored in the long term due to exposure to sunlight. In addition, plastic is also less robust than wood, for example, depending on the type of production.

Possible uses: Ideal for use in vans, RVs and smaller living spaces where weight and space are limited. Also, great if you want to move the composting toilet, such as when used in a tent.

Wood

Separating toilets made of wood give their place of use a wonderfully natural charm. They are environmentally friendly and fit well into natural environments. Due to their weight, separating toilets made of wood have a special stability.
The disadvantage is that wood needs special care. Permanent moisture makes the material swell and promotes the formation of mold. Therefore, its permanent use in the shower is not recommended.

This is where the wooden toilet feels at home: in garden sheds, Tiny Houses, vacation homes or in a mobile home in a separate toilet room.

Stainless steel

Stainless steel composting toilets are known for their robustness and hygiene. They are easy to clean and offer a modern aesthetic.

A night disadvantage of stainless steel is that it can rust if continuously sprinkled. Therefore, stainless steel composting toilets are only suitable for use in the shower to a limited extent.

Ideal use tartlets: perfect for use in eco-friendly homes and as a sustainable option in various living situations.

Ceramic

Ceramic composting toilets combine a classic look with modern sustainability. They are durable and easy to clean. When buying, make sure the ceramic material is high quality to minimize the risk of breakage.

One clear downside to ceramic toilets is their weight. They are significantly heavier than composting toilets made of other materials.

Use in various living situations: An ideal choice for traditional bathrooms or ecological housing projects. Plastic toilets are less suitable for mobile use due to their weight.

Costs

Cost also plays a role in the choice of material for your composting toilet. Here is a rough guide:

• Plastic: Plastic composting toilets are usually the most cost-effective option on the market. They are affordable and still offer the classic advantages of a composting toilet.

• Wood: The cost of wooden composting toilets varies greatly, depending on the type of wood and design. They can range from inexpensive to high-priced.

• Stainless Steel: Stainless steel composting toilets tend to be slightly more expensive than plastic models. This is due to the higher cost of materials and the more complex manufacturing process.

• Ceramic: Ceramic composting toilets are comparable to stainless steel composting toilets in terms of initial cost. Due to their appearance and durability, they are even slightly more expensive in some cases.

All advantages and disadvantages at a glance

Conclusion

Choosing the right material for your composting toilet depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as location, weight, maintenance requirements and aesthetics.

Whether plastic, stainless steel, ceramic or wood - each material has its advantages and disadvantages. In the first step, consider where and how you want to use your composting toilet. This will help you in the second to make the best decision for the material of your toilet.