There are several key things you need to consider to find the best RV toilets for you and your family. Below we’ll discuss some of the top options and give you a guide for choosing the best toilet for you.
Contents
- Benefits of RV Toilets
- Why You Need One
- Useful Tips
- 3 Hand Picked Comparisons
- Best RV Toilets – 18 Expert Reviews
- 1. Thetford Aqua-Magic Parchment
- 2. Dometic 310 Standard Series White
- 3. Dometic 320 Pedal Flush Recreational Vehicle Toilet
- 4. Camco Standard Portable Travel Toilet with 5.3 Gallon Capacity
- 5. Thetford Portable Adult RV Potti with Ergonomic Handle
- 6. Thetford Aqua-Magic Style II
- 7. SereneLife Portable Outdoor Toilet with Large Tank and Waste Level Indicator
- 8. Camco Travel Toilet with Removable 5.3 Gallon Tank
- 9. Camco Premium Portable RV Toilet with Directional Flush System
- 10. Aqua-Magic V RV Toilet Hand Flush Toilet
- 11. Dometic 300 Series Standard Height Toilet
- 12. Aqua-Magic Residence RV toilet
- 13. Thetford Aqua-Magic V RV Toilet Hand Flush
- 14. Dometic Sanitation 302310083 310 Toilet Bone Std toilet
- 15. Aqua-Magic Style II RV Toilet
- 16. Aqua-Magic V RV Toilet
- 17. Aqua-Magic Bravura RV Toilet
- 18. Aqua-Magic Residence RV Toilet / Low Profile
- Buying Guide – Choosing a RV Toilet
- Installation the Right Way
- How Do RV Toilets Work?
- Regular Toilets in an RV (Is it Possible?)
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Bottom Line
Benefits of RV Toilets
- RV toilets make your day-to-day life much easier. You won’t need to use communal bathrooms; instead, you can do your business in a private, clean, and hygienic space.
- They can be lifesavers for people who tend to go to the bathroom often. You’ll need to take fewer breaks, and not go off your planned route.
- Some are more eco-friendly than others. Some come with composting features that can turn your waste into fertilizer.
- They can actually be comfortable. Keep in mind that in many ways, they aren’t that different from standard home toilets.
Why You Need One
An RV toilet allows you to make the most of your travel, and enjoy the RV lifestyle every step of the way. It’s by far the most convenient option, especially if there are elderly people or children aboard.
However, hygiene is probably the greatest benefit of RV toilets. They allow you to keep the rest of your camper clean and not use any unsanitary bathrooms along the way.
Useful Tips
✓ To keep your RV toilet smelling fresh, use a tube clean or urine hole. You can also pour a cleaner down the urine hole after using it to get rid of the bad smells. Also, empty the waste and water tanks every few days or less, depending on how many people are in the RV.
✓ Most of the time, the amount of water you use depends on how long you press the flush button or pedal. More often than not, you will need only a few seconds to get rid of the waste.
✓ If you have a composting toilet, make sure to change the tank frequently to prevent dirt build-up. Also, turn on the agitator when you want to create compost. To make the process easier and quicker, you can use coconut coir or sphagnum peat moss.
3 Hand Picked Comparisons
Best RV Toilets – 18 Expert Reviews
1. Thetford Aqua-Magic Parchment
It comes as no surprise that it’s often named as one of the best RV toilets. Plus, it has a minimal number of corners, crevices, and grooves, making it easy to clean.
The Aqua Magic is lightweight and comes with all the parts you need to install it. Not to mention, it’s highly efficient and complies with both UPS and CSA guidelines.
This model can be easily flushed and filled with the help of a pedal at the bottom. Also, thanks to the skirted trap way, it’s efficient as well. To make this model even more eco-friendly, it comes with a dual flush which only uses 1.2 GPF.
This Thetford model comes with a siphoned flushing tube. This mechanism can be a lifesaver, as it helps prevent issues like leaks and clogs.
2. Dometic 310 Standard Series White
The toilet has a side foot pedal that can be used to flush the contents of the bowl. Also, the toilet comes with a resistant layer to prevent rust, scratches, and scuff marks. The elongated front bowl is fitted with a SoftClose seat that quietly closes and opens.
Dometic’s 310 series seat is designed to be at a height of 18 inches, making it optimal for individuals of all heights. The bowl is simple to clean and highly resistant to stains and rust markings. Furthermore, this toilet has been tested and ADA certified.
3. Dometic 320 Pedal Flush Recreational Vehicle Toilet
This model comes with a comfortable seat height that is suited perfectly for most. The seat and the lid are included in the packaging along with the instructions on how to set it up.
Finally, Dometic 320 RV Toilet is efficient and the bottom pedal flush packs quite a punch. It eliminates the possibility of clogs due to waste or paper build-up. However, some customers say that flushing makes a little more noise than other models.
4. Camco Standard Portable Travel Toilet with 5.3 Gallon Capacity
The design reduces the need for constant cleaning between the bowl and the tank. Customers love this model’s performance and say it comes with a strong flush.
Additionally, it doesn’t have unbearable noise levels, which makes it one of the top choices.
5. Thetford Portable Adult RV Potti with Ergonomic Handle
Thetford Portable Adult Potti is made with an ergonomic carry handle. It has a durable plastic layer that gives it a shiny finish that’s resistant to scratches and stains.
The seat is at a universal height making the seating position comfortable for most. The bowl can be cleaned with a spray bottle or a cup of water with detergent for extra cleaning power.
On most occasions, the system will flush down even the heaviest of solid waste in one single flush cycle. Plus, Thetford toilets have been certified as ADA and CEC compliant.
6. Thetford Aqua-Magic Style II
The elongated bowl is comfortable to sit on, while the SoftClose seat makes very little noise. Also, the cyclone siphon system uses only 0.8–1.0 GPF, which helps you save money on your bills. This feature is extra useful for RVs that are far away from a water supply.
7. SereneLife Portable Outdoor Toilet with Large Tank and Waste Level Indicator
It has been tested and found to be natural, safe, and eco-friendly. It’s a great option for cabins, RVs, and homes with a bad water supply.
The agitator helps in quick composting while the self-contained tank is designed to divert liquid wastes. Overall, the toilet is sturdy and easy to wipe clean with a disinfectant or liquid soap.
Customers also say that the compost container is easy to disassemble for cleaning or other purposes. The packaging contains all the necessary parts for assembly, but the external vent will need to be purchased separately.
SereneLife can work without any water and withstand harsh and frequent use.
8. Camco Travel Toilet with Removable 5.3 Gallon Tank
However, it is easy to install even in the tiniest bathrooms. Plus, the elongated seat can be removed for easier cleaning or seat changing. This may be the perfect model for you if you don’t have a lot of space available.
This model allows you to control the amount of water used for flushing, and the waste storage tank ensures that solid waste is decomposed with a minimal amount of soil.
9. Camco Premium Portable RV Toilet with Directional Flush System
The SoftClose seat has a comfortable, ergonomic design and molded bumpers. It also comes with a polypropylene finish to prevent the toilet seat from banging.
If needed, customers can order a separate seat they can later use to replace the old one. All Camco Premium seats are made to fit all models, whether the toilet is regular or elongated.
10. Aqua-Magic V RV Toilet Hand Flush Toilet
It also comes with a single-handle flush system, a feature rarely seen in this price range. But our favorite aspect is that the pedal acts as a dual system. Pressing it halfway fills the bowl with water, and extra pressure opens the valve to flush the toilet. So, you can easily get full-bowl coverage, which makes removing the waste much easier.
You can install the Aqua-Magic into all RVs if they allow a permanent installation.
However, some customers complain of the valve disconnecting from the body and leaking, so make sure you properly install the RV toilet to avoid any accidents.
11. Dometic 300 Series Standard Height Toilet
The Dometic 300 features a triple-jet pedal flush, which makes getting rid of waste more economic. The powerful flush allows you to clean the toilet much easier.
This model is quite easy to install and adjust to most spaces. The Dometic 300 can replace almost any other standard RV toilet, as long as it’s not on a platform. But keep in mind that some installations require a Dometic floor flange adapter kit as well.
12. Aqua-Magic Residence RV toilet
The material is lightweight but sturdy, and the toilet height is perfect for most people. This model comes with an antimicrobial seat to prevent bad smells and keep mold away.
The Aqua-Magic Residence RV Toilet is ADA-compliant, making it popular with the older generations and those who want to bring more comfort to their bathroom.
The one issue we have with this model is that it doesn’t offer full-bowl water coverage and so, cleaning it will be more difficult and take more time. Also, some customers complain of the flush pedal breaking and falling apart.
13. Thetford Aqua-Magic V RV Toilet Hand Flush
It uses a single-hand system to remove waste and save more water along the way. The end result is a 100% coverage flush. Plus, it comes with a textured lid which makes the toilet more resistant to scuffs.
The only thing we don’t like is that the pedal is a bit too high, so it’s not the easiest to flush.
14. Dometic Sanitation 302310083 310 Toilet Bone Std toilet
The Dometic Sanitation also comes with a wooden seat and a Slow Close seat cover.
Another thing we love about this model is its clever bowl design. The bowl is both visually appealing and effortless to clean.
The only downside is that some customers complain about the flapper seal leaking.
15. Aqua-Magic Style II RV Toilet
The Aqua-Magic Style II also comes with a powerful single-pedal flushing system. This mechanism is used to both flush waste and add water more efficiently. At the same time, it keeps providing 100% bowl coverage. You can even upgrade this model with a hand sprayer to reduce your water consumption.
The Aqua-Magic Style II comes with an antimicrobial seat that prevents bacteria and mold from spreading.
The bowl is made from china, while the bottom parts are made from plastic to help reduce the overall weight. However, this may cause some issues down the line if certain parts break and start to leak.
16. Aqua-Magic V RV Toilet
Additionally, this model comes with a hand sprayer that allows you to save more water.
We also love the Aqua-Magic V hand flush because it’s lightweight and easy to use and install.
The only thing we aren’t so happy about is that it may be hard to use the hose and lever at the same time. It may also lessen the water pressure overall, so you may want to use them separately.
17. Aqua-Magic Bravura RV Toilet
This model also comes with an easy-off cover and seat, making cleaning easier.
What truly sets this model apart is the pulsating single-pedal flushing system. This ensures your bowl stays completely clean after every flush and doesn’t use too much water to do so.
The Aqua-Magic Bravura is easy to set up, and you can mount it on any floor flange.
18. Aqua-Magic Residence RV Toilet / Low Profile
Aqua-Magic Residence features a dual-function system, allowing you to fill the bowl and flush the toilet with the press of the pedal. It is very efficient as-is, and you can also add a hand sprayer to help save more water.
The only issue with this model is that it’s not quite as stable as most other low profiles. So, unless you bolt it to the floor, it may start moving around at the bottom.
Buying Guide – Choosing a RV Toilet
Assess the amount of space you have in your bathroom and whether it can fit a full-sized toilet.
Also, think about the people who are going to be using the RV toilet. If you’re traveling with children or the elderly, there will be some restrictions. For example, you won’t be able to install a low-profile model, as it will be difficult for them to use it. People within these two groups also may find foot-pedal toilets difficult. Consider using a wall switch, traditional, or side handle set-up instead.
Consider how long and often you’re going to travel. Also, take into account how often you’ll be able to stop to dump out the waste tank.
If you want to set up a second toilet, you may want to consider a vacuum or a macerator model. These models do not need to be placed exactly above the liquid waste tank. Instead, waste can be pumped up to 65 feet away through the sanitation hose to your waste tank.
Here we cover six essential Rv toilet features to help guide your decision.
#1. Ease of Installation
Since you will likely be doing the job yourself, choose an RV toilet that’s easy to install. Portable toilets are usually the easiest to install but if you need something more sophisticated, a flush toilet is only slightly more difficult to set up. Keep in mind that your RV toilet should be quick and easy to clean while you’re on the road.
#2. Waste Capacity
An RV toilet with a high waste capacity will make your life much easier since you won’t have to empty them as often. But, if you let the waste sit for too long, the entire RV will start to smell. Choose a toilet with a higher waste capacity that also locks in odors.
#3. Usage Type
The best RV toilet for you is the one the most accurately suits your needs. If you’re disabled or elderly, you may want to steer clear of low-profile toilets. Instead, you should opt for a high-profile model, which most people prefer anyway. These toilets tend to be more comfortable and are similar to household toilets. If you’re set on a low-profile toilet, consider installing a raised platform to make it easier to use.
#4. Durability
Porcelain RV toilets are the most durable by far. However, they come with a higher price tag. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, a plastic model may be just the right fit. But keep in mind that there are different types of plastic. Polypropylene plastic toilets can last you for years compared to other plastics.
#5. Shape and Size
You should consider the shape and size of the toilet seat before making a final decision. Standard oblong seats tend to be the most comfortable. However, wider people tend to prefer a square model. Also, consider if the elderly or children will be using the toilet, and try to accommodate them.
#6. Ergonomics
Ergonomics makes a toilet stand out. A toilet should be comfortable enough for you to spend some time on it, and sit at a comfortable height. We recommend a toilet with an extended bowl, which tends to be more comfortable overall and easier to maintain.
Installation the Right Way
Here’s a step-by-step guide to replacing an old RV toilet.
Step #2 – Turn the water pump off and flush your toilet to remove any remaining liquid. Then, dry out the bowl with some old rags or towels.
Step #3 – Search for a plastic cover, typically on the bottom or either side of the toilet, and start pulling it up. Now, you should be able to see the bolts and nuts that hold the RV toilet down. Start unscrewing them.
Step #4 – Look for a hose connected to the back of your toilet and unscrew all nuts and bolts from there. Then, disconnect the hose as well. Finally, make sure you have old newspapers or towels ready for you to put the toilet on.
Step #5 – Lift the toilet straight up and place it on the rags/towels/newspapers on the floor. If it’s stuck, you can try to wiggle it out of its place.
Step #6 – Replace the old rubber gasket with the new one from your installation kit. If you’re having a hard time removing it, use a screwdriver to pry it off.
Step #7 – Line up the bolts to the holes on the bottom of your toilet. Then, gently place the toilet on top of the newly installed gasket.
Step #8 – Tighten the nuts over the bolts using a wrench. Then, make sure the toilet fits snuggly and isn’t too tight or too wobbly.
Step #9 – Tighten up the bolts and nuts of the hose behind the toilet. Make sure not to overtighten them.
Step #10 – Finally, test the toilet by turning on the water pump and flushing it. If everything seems to be in working order, and there aren’t leaks — you’ve done a good job. If not, go back and recheck your work step by step.
How Do RV Toilets Work?
RV toilets work by supplying water through either a freshwater or campsite hook-up. They also need to have at least half a bowl worth of water before being used.
These toilets require special dissolvable paper to ensure your toilet works well and doesn’t clog. You should never flush paper towels, tissues, food, or feminine products.
It’s also important to note that compost RV toilets work a bit differently. Instead of pushing the waste into a tank, it will go in a compost bowl.
As a result, you’ll be able to both empty the tank in a designated area, or use the waste as a fertilizer. Compost toilets allow you to go a few weeks before emptying out the tank.
Regular Toilets in an RV (Is it Possible?)
The short answer is yes, but there are some things you need to consider first. While it is possible to use a regular toilet, it’s rarely a good long-term solution.
First, regular toilets are much heavier and aren’t made to endure driving conditions. They’re likely to crack or cause damage to the RV.
Second, home toilets consume much more water per flush than RV models. You’ll need to fill up the water tank and empty the waste tank more frequently. Not to mention, you may cause damage to the toilet, hose, or tank on accident.
With all of that in mind, it’s a much better option to go with an RV toilet in the first place. You won’t have to worry about anything bad happening. Moreover, you’ll get all of the comforts you would from a regular home toilet.
Frequently Asked Questions
You should pour hot water inside of the valve to dissolve any remaining toilet paper. There are also some chemical solutions made for RV toilets that can help resolve the issue.
Based on the criteria we’ve mentioned thus far, we recommend the Dometic 310. The reason why we’re listing it as one of the top RV toilets is that it’s powerful, comfortable, easy to maintain, and has a good two-year warranty.
As far as the best affordable RV toilets go, you may want to consider the Dometic 300 Series or Aqua-Magic V. Both of these are durable and strong, but won’t break the bank.
Thetford and Dometic are two of the most popular RV toilet brands. However, both have various models that come with different pros and cons. Instead of basing your decision on a name, look at the features and prices within both brands.
You can use a sponge or rag (for the exterior), as well as a toilet brush for the interior of the RV toilet. You could also go for either a store-bought solution or make one out of vinegar. Make sure to be thorough and get rid of all bacteria, and clean your toilet regularly.
While it isn’t very common, you can use an RV toilet in your home as well. Keep in mind that the tank generates black water, and needs to be emptied out regularly. Plus, you’ll need to decrease the water flow to make sure the RV toilet doesn’t crack or leak.
First, locate the source of the bad smell. Clogged pipes are typically the reason behind it, but they can also be caused by a damaged sewer tank or a leak. Make sure to flush out anything that may be stuck, and scour and sanitize the tank regularly.
To solve the problem, you can install a vacuum or macerator RV toilet. These can be set up to not have any direct contact with the waste-collecting tank. You can also go with a gravity-flush toilet. With this model, the water in the bowl will act as a barrier and prevent the odor from spreading.
That being said, you’ll have to check on the seal and flush the bowl regularly. This way, you can ensure the valves stay clean and that liquid does not leak out of the bowl. Keep a close eye on the mineral buildup such as watermarks because this can damage the seal.
Bottom Line
The best RV toilet is one that fits your needs (and bathroom) perfectly. However, whichever model you decide on, make sure to maintain and clean it regularly. You’ll ensure that your RV toilet serves you well for many years to come. If you want to know more about other good toilets don’t forget the check our latest toilet reviews.
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