If you’ve been paying attention, you may have noticed that composting toilets have gained popularity in American homes as an environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional flush toilets.
Composting toilets are an innovative system that converts human waste into nutrient-rich compost that can fertilize plants and build healthy topsoil. They help to reduce water consumption and contribute to sustainable living practices – particularly for those without access to a reliable water source or for those who live in remote areas.
To ensure the safe and effective handling of composting toilet waste, it is essential to know the proper way to handle and dispose of the waste they produce. Below, we guide you through the process of using and managing composting toilet waste responsibly.
To get the most out of your composting toilet and to help with the safe decomposition of waste, follow these guidelines:
- Use the toilet as intended: Composting toilets are designed for human waste, natural bulking materials and toilet paper only. Do not dispose of any other materials, such as plastics, feminine hygiene products, pet waste, kitchen scraps or chemicals, into your composting toilet, as these can add contaminants and/or disrupt the composting process.
- Not too wet, not too dry: Composting relies on the right balance of moisture in the chamber. Add bulking agents like wood shavings or shredded leaves after each use to regulate moisture and create an open structure for oxygen circulation, which aids in decomposition.
- Turn your compost pile regularly: Depending on the system, you may need to turn or mix the compost periodically to help with aeration and the breakdown of waste.
Safe usage of composting toilet waste
When it comes time to remove the composted waste from your composting toilet, consider following these steps:
Always allow for proper decomposition
Composting toilet systems typically have separate chambers to allow waste to decompose over time. This is called curing or maturation.
Allowing your composting toilet waste to cure will help with:-
- Pathogen reduction
- Prolonged composting helps eliminate pathogens, making the compost safer to handle.
- Decomposition completion
- Curing ensures organic materials have thoroughly decomposed, resulting in a more stable, nutrient-rich compost.
- Odor reduction
- Maturation helps reduce any residual odors
- Enhanced nutrient availability
- Curing allows for the breakdown of organic compounds into simple forms, which makes it easier for plants to absorb.
Assess the stability and maturity of your waste
Curing helps you to assess the maturity and stability of your compost visually. Compost that’s completely matured will have a dark, crumbly texture (similar to compost from a garden center), won’t smell, and will look nothing like its original form. Ensure your compost has reached this stage before using it on gardens or grounds. To accomplish this, you may need to empty your composting toilet bin into a secondary composting bin for further composting.
Proper use of composting toilet waste
Mature compost from a composting toilet can be safely used for flower gardens, ornamental plants, or fruit or nut trees where the edible portion does not come near the ground. The compost should be covered with soil to prevent accidental contact by children or pets.
In the United States, regulations about how to use or dispose of compost from composting toilets are different from state to state, and sometimes even from town to town. Regulations in your location may restrict or prohibit using compost from your toilet in the ways described here.
Take proper health and safety precautions
Even though the composting process kills off most harmful pathogens, it’s always important to wear gloves and practice good hygiene when handling composting toilet waste.
Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water after handling to help prevent the spread of potential pathogens.
By following these guidelines for usage, maintenance, and disposal of the compost produced by your toilet, you can ensure the safe and effective handling of composting toilet waste in your home. By doing this, you can contribute to a greener future while embracing responsible waste management practices in your home and community.