What Is a Composting Toilet?
A composting toilet is a self-contained, waterless toilet system that separates liquid and solid waste to reduce odour and simplify disposal.
Unlike traditional toilets:
- No plumbing or septic system is required.
- No water or chemicals are needed.
- Waste is naturally broken down using organic material.
If you're comparing different solutions, explore our full range of off-grid toilets to find the best fit for your setup. The Nature’s Head composting toilet is a sustainable, easy-to-use alternative.
About the Nature’s Head Composting Toilet
The Nature’s Head composting toilet is a self-contained, urine-diverting toilet constructed for off-grid use. Originally developed by sailors, it’s built to handle motion, limited space, and long-term use without failure.
Key highlights:
- Waterless, eco-friendly operation.
- Separate liquid and solid waste system.
- Compact, durable design (fits in tight spaces).
- Designed for cabins, RVs, boats, and tiny homes.
- Made in the USA with rugged materials.
Types of Nature’s Head Composting Toilets
While the core system remains consistent, there are variations to fit different setups:
Standard Nature’s Head Composting Toilet
- Full-size unit.
- Ideal for cabins, RVs, and tiny homes.
Spider Handle (Hand or Foot)
- Hand crank (most common).
- Foot spider handle (better for tight spaces).
Compact / Space-Saving Options
- Designed for smaller installations like vans or boats.
What’s Included with a Nature’s Head Composting Toilet
Each Nature’s Head composting toilet includes the core components needed for installation and operation:
- Vent hose and vent flange (for external ventilation).
- Mounting brackets, knobs, and hardware.
- 12V ventilation fan system with power cable.
- Liquid bottle with secure cap.
- Agitator handle system (hand or spider handle option).
- Fuse and fuse holder.
- Installation manual.
This setup provides a complete, self-contained off-grid toilet system, with only basic venting and power connection required. You can also explore compatible toilet accessories and replacement parts to customize or maintain your setup over time.
Key Features of the Nature’s Head Composting Toilet
The Nature’s Head composting toilet is designed with practical features that make it reliable and easy to use in off-grid and mobile environments:
- Waterless operation – no plumbing required.
- Odour-free ventilation system – continuous airflow via 12V fan.
- High capacity – up to 60-80 uses before emptying.
- Durable construction – stainless steel + molded body.
- Compact footprint – approx. 19" x 19" x 20".
- Self-contained system – ideal for remote use.
Benefits of Choosing a Nature’s Head Composting Toilet
Choosing a Nature’s Head system offers several advantages for off-grid living, convenience, and long-term sustainability:
- Eliminate black tanks and septic systems
- Reduce water usage completely
- Avoid pump-outs and chemicals
- Offers simple maintenance and cleaning
- Is reliable for long-term off-grid living
Why Choose Nature’s Head Over Other Composting Toilets?
Nature’s Head stands out from other composting toilets by combining proven performance with user-friendly design and durability:
- Proven reliability (used by thousands of off-grid users).
- Designed specifically for mobile and off-grid environments.
- Better odour control than many alternatives.
- Easy installation and minimal maintenance.
- Long lifespan with 5-year warranty.
If you're considering alternatives, options like incinerating toilets (such as Cinderella toilets) offer a different approach to off-grid waste management, though they require power and higher upfront costs.
Why Buy from The Cabin Depot?
When investing in off-grid sanitation solutions, choosing a trusted supplier ensures you get the right product, reliable support, and long-term value.
We offer:
- Family-owned Canadian business.
- Real people available by phone, email, chat, or in-store.
- Hands-on experience with off-grid sanitation systems.
- Expert guidance for cabins, RVs, and remote setups.
- Competitive pricing and price-match options.
- Warranty-backed support.
- Trusted by Canada’s off-grid community.
We use the products we sell and understand what works in real-world off-grid conditions.
Who Is a Nature’s Head Composting Toilet Ideal For?
This system is ideal for:
- Cabin owners without septic systems.
- RV and van life travelers.
- Tiny home builders.
- Boaters and marine setups.
- Off-grid and remote living enthusiasts.
Installation & Setup
Installing a Nature’s Head composting toilet is straightforward:
- Secure the base using mounting brackets.
- Install the vent hose to the exterior.
- Connect the 12V fan system.
- Add composting medium (coco coir).
- Begin use.
No plumbing or professional installation is required.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Regular cleaning and simple maintenance help ensure reliable performance and long-term use of your composting toilet.
- Empty liquid tank: every 1-3 days (depending on use).
- Empty solids: every 2-6 weeks.
- Add fresh coco coir after emptying.
- Clean with mild, non-harsh cleaners.
Does the Nature’s Head Composting Toilet Smell?
No, when used properly, it is odour-free. The built-in ventilation system continuously removes air, preventing odour buildup.
Odours typically only occur if:
- Liquids and solids mix.
- The fan is not running.
- The unit is improperly maintained.
How Do You Dispose of Waste?
- Liquid waste: disposed of in approved dump locations or toilets.
- Solid waste: bag and disposal according to local regulations.
The composting process begins inside the unit but completes after disposal.
Composting Toilet vs. Traditional Toilet
| Feature | Nature’s Head Composting Toilet | Traditional Toilet |
| Water Usage | None | High |
| Plumbing Required | No | Yes |
| Odour Control | Ventilation system | Depends on plumbing |
| Waste System | Self-contained | Septic / sewer |
| Maintenance | Low | Moderate–high |
| Off-Grid Use | Ideal | Not suitable |