Issue #4
Hello Friendz,
When you're living tiny—especially off-grid—one of the biggest “ick-factor” questions is:
What do I do about a toilet?
We get this question all the time, and the good news is: composting toilets have come a long way. They’re clean, eco-friendly, and super practical when done right.
In this issue, we’ll break down how composting toilets work, what your options are, what they cost, and which ones are worth a closer look. Plus, We’ve included a bonus option that might surprise you—especially if you’re into sustainability too.
But first, here’s your…
🛠️ Tip of the Week
Use coconut coir or sawdust as your cover material.
It helps control moisture and odor and kickstarts the composting process. Never use kitty litter or bleach—they harm the system and the environment.
If you’re done thinking about living sustainably, off-grid in a tiny home and your ready to step into a more peaceful way of life, we’re ready to invite you to come live in The Rio Grande Estates Tiny Home Community here in The Land of Enchantment, New Mexico. We offer studio, 1 and 2 bedroom container homes. Click HERE to learn more and apply.
đź’ˇ Understanding Composting Toilets
At its core, a composting toilet separates liquid and solid waste. This makes it easier to manage, breaks it down faster, and—when done properly—doesn’t stink.
Here are the main types worth considering:
1. Self-Contained Units
These are all-in-one systems that sit right where a regular toilet would. No plumbing required.
Pros: Easy to install, great for mobile homes and off-grid cabins
Cons: Needs regular emptying and maintenance
Popular Brands:
🌿 Nature’s Head – Rugged, popular with vanlifers
🌾 Air Head – Compact and odor-controlled
💰 Cost: Around $1,000–$1,200
2. Central Composting Systems
These connect to a central bin (usually in the crawl space or basement). Good for permanent tiny homes.
Pros: Larger capacity, less frequent emptying
Cons: Requires more space, harder to DIY
Popular Brands:
🌻 Sun-Mar Centrex systems
🌲 Separett Villa (semi-central option)
💰 Cost: $1,500–$2,500+
3. DIY Bucket Systems (a.k.a. Humanure Toilets)
The simplest and cheapest solution: a 5-gallon bucket, a toilet seat, and cover material like sawdust.
Pros: Super low cost, great for emergencies or dry cabins
Cons: Not for the faint of heart; needs outdoor compost pile
Recommended: Only for folks comfortable managing their own waste long-term
đź’° Cost: Under $100
🔋 BONUS OPTION: Biodigesters (Turn Waste Into Cooking Gas!)
If you're interested in going all-in on sustainability, a biodigester might be for you. These systems convert human and food waste into biogas (usable for cooking!) and liquid fertilizer.
Pros: Produces energy, no smell, closes the waste loop
Cons: Requires outdoor setup, works best in warm climates
Recommended Brand:
🔥 HomeBiogas – Trusted system used worldwide for off-grid living and permaculture setups
💰 Cost: Around $900–$1,200
Dealing with waste isn’t the most exciting part of going tiny—but it’s one of the most empowering. You get to choose a solution that aligns with your values, saves water, and gives you freedom from traditional systems.
Whether it’s a composting toilet or a biodigester, the right setup will keep your tiny home clean, odor-free, and eco-friendly.
You’ve got this.
See you next week,
Your Friendz at Trendz
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