Our Nature’s Head composting toilet is a self-contained, urine diverting and waterless operation tucked in the privacy of a shed. In the spirit of our commitment to the Earth and our desire to lovingly steward the land in our care, this odorless “dry toilet” serves as an eco-friendly restroom near our community gardens.
It doesn’t use any harsh chemicals and everything that goes into the toilet is recycled back into nature! The urine is a great nutrient for mature trees. Composted waste – after mixing in a separate compost pile – can be used for flowers and young trees.
Want to get outside and get involved in caring for Creation? Join us for a volunteer work day, apply to tend a raised garden bed in our community gardens, or contact us about educational or volunteer opportunities for your group.
Does the toilet smell bad?
No, the separation of urine from solids is key. It will have a slight earthy smell when working properly.
Where are the contents emptied?
Urine is a great nutrient for mature trees; composted waste can be used for flowers and young trees
How does the process work?
No harsh chemicals used! Organic peat moss and oxygen create a composting environment
Why is there a solar panel?
The exhaust fan and the light, which is on a timer, run on solar power
How often does the toilet need emptied?
It is best to allow the solids to decompose before emptying the toilet. The longer you wait before emptying your toilet, the nicer the job will be.
In fact, many boaters will leave the solid wastes in the toilet over the winter and empty it in the spring. That may not be possible for some applications, but you will find that even in as little as one week much of the solid wastes have begun to decompose, and just the paper products are visible.
It is best if you do not leave the liquid wastes in the tank for extended periods. While everyone is different, some urine will smell bad if allowed to sit for extended periods.
The toilet can also endure cold weather use as long as the urine bottle is empty. The compost and toilet will be unharmed in freezing weather.
How does the composting process work?
Everything that goes into the toilet is recycled back into nature and no harsh products are required.
Oxygen is key! Oxygen and organic peat moss or organic coco coir encourage aerobic bacteria. These organisms grow in an oxygenated environment and cause the composting process. Peat moss helps break apart feces.
Without oxygen, anaerobic bacteria will thrive, and the waste will still break down to compost, but at a much slower rate and it will produce a smell.