Considering a life off-grid, you’re likely pondering the logistics of living without electricity or running water. One crucial aspect to consider is your bathroom situation. Whether you opt for an indoor setup or an outhouse, a functional composting toilet is essential. In this article, I’ve scoured the internet to gather some of the most innovative DIY plans that will help you find the perfect solution for your off-grid abode.
From these comprehensive options, you’ll be able to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
The Yurt 411
For those venturing into the world of off-grid living, one pioneer’s expertise on DIY compost toilets offers a wealth of knowledge. With over 15 years of experience residing in a yurt, this individual has perfected the art of sustainable waste management.
By sharing their approach to creating a self-sufficient toilet system, they demonstrate how this simple yet effective solution can be an integral part of a homesteading lifestyle, offering numerous benefits and advantages for those choosing to live off the grid.
Composting Toilet for a Tiny House
Inspired by a tiny house blog, this innovative composting toilet solution appears to offer an affordable alternative for eco-conscious homeowners. At its core, the design features a rubber tub serving as the foundation, accompanied by a smaller plastic container that segregates urine from waste. To add a touch of elegance to even the most compact bathrooms, the entire setup is cleverly encased in a wooden box, resulting in a visually appealing and functional composting toilet solution.
The Basic DIY Composting Toilet
While the image of this composting toilet design may be simple, it effectively conveys its purpose and functionality. The wooden box features a standard toilet seat, leaving unclear whether the waste is separated or combined. A bucket of sawdust sits adjacent to the toilet, intended for use in covering the waste after each use.
The Combination
Creating a DIY composting toilet is an innovative approach to reducing waste and promoting sustainability. One such design that caught my attention is a wooden box toilet, which features two distinct sections: a dedicated space for the toilet itself and another compartment for storing sawdust and toilet paper.
What’s interesting is that this concept can be either self-made or ordered from a professional, offering a range of possibilities for those looking to incorporate eco-friendly practices into their daily lives.
The Tradition Composting Toilet
Imagine having a composting toilet that seamlessly integrates into your daily routine, much like a traditional toilet. This innovative design could be exactly what you’re looking for.
The toilet itself is encased in a wooden box, providing a sleek and discreet appearance. The sawdust storage compartment is cleverly located at the back of the unit, ensuring easy access whenever needed.
The Composting Toilet DIY System
If you’re seeking a creative solution to repurpose an old toilet into a composting toilet, but lack the necessary framework to implement it, you’ll find this concept intriguing. The approach involves placing the toilet above a substantial barrel, which features piping designed to dissipate unpleasant odors and is filled with materials that facilitate the decomposition of waste.
Urine Separating Composting Toilet Bucket
For individuals working with a limited budget, the prospect of implementing a composting toilet system that effectively separates urine from other waste may seem daunting. However, with a little creativity and resourcefulness, it’s possible to create a functional and efficient setup. One such idea involves repurposing a five-gallon bucket to serve as the foundation for this system.
By carefully cutting and modifying the bucket, you can create a division between urine and solid waste, allowing for easier collection and processing of each component.
RV Composting Toilet
While some off-gridders opt for alternative living arrangements like yurts or tiny homes, others may choose to reside in an RV as a temporary solution until they can secure their land and construct a more permanent abode. Despite the temporary nature of this setup, the need for a reliable composting toilet system remains a pressing concern. One innovative approach that has proven successful for RV dwellers is repurposing an olive barrel to create a functional and effective solution.
The In-depth Composting Toilet
For those venturing into the world of composting toilets for the first time, building one from scratch can be an intimidating prospect. The initial investment in purchasing a composting toilet can be steep, which may prompt some to take matters into their own hands and attempt to construct one themselves. However, without a clear understanding of the process or where to begin, this endeavor can quickly become overwhelming.
Luckily, there are resources available that can guide you through the process, providing valuable background information as well as practical step-by-step instructions. By exploring these options, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of how composting toilets work best and successfully build one that meets your needs.
The Five-Gallon Composting Toilet
For those prioritizing function over form, a DIY composting toilet solution is a great option. The approach involves running a pipe to separate urine from waste, then placing a toilet lid on top of a five-gallon bucket. This setup offers simplicity, affordability and reportedly effective results, making it an attractive choice for individuals seeking a no-frills solution.
The DIY Small Septic System
While not everyone may be enthused about composting toilets, there are still ways to achieve off-grid living on a budget. One alternative is to construct a small septic system. This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to build your own septic system, which may not be as straightforward as setting up a composting toilet, but it can be a viable option in certain situations.
The Fancy Composting Toilet
When an old corner cabinet gathers dust, it’s tempting to let it collect more, but what if you could breathe new life into it? Consider transforming it into a DIY composting toilet. This innovative solution not only repurposes an unwanted item but also offers a unique approach to waste management. The process is straightforward: place a bucket to catch waste inside the cabinet, then cut a hole in the top and attach a toilet seat.
With these simple steps, you’ll be creating a functional and eco-friendly space that showcases your upcycling skills.
The Vermicomposting Flush Toilet
While some DIY composting toilets may require more creativity, this particular option offers a unique advantage – it combines a flushing toilet with a worm bin for composting and gardening. For those seeking a more advanced system, this choice is definitely worth exploring. With 13 options to consider, selecting the best fit can be overwhelming, especially when deciding to go off-grid.
To avoid unpleasant surprises, it’s essential to weigh your building skills, budget, and available space against each option. By taking the time to research and consider your needs, you’ll be well on your way to finding a solution that meets your requirements and ensures a comfortable toilet experience.
