Can I Build a Compost Toilet Without Professional Help?

Choosing the Right Materials

Building a humanure sawdust toilet requires specific materials to ensure proper decomposition and to prevent contamination. You’ll need a 55-gallon drum or a custom-built vault (at least 2 feet deep and 2 feet wide) made of durable materials like concrete or PVC. A wooden seat and lid are also necessary, as well as a handle for easy removal of the composting chamber. Use a 5-gallon bucket as a urine diversion system to prevent contamination and to make maintenance easier. For the composting mix, you’ll need 1/3 sawdust, 1/3 peat moss or coconut coir, and 1/3 shredded newspaper or cardboard.

Designing the Composting Chamber

The composting chamber should be designed to allow for adequate aeration and drainage. Drill 1/4-inch holes in the bottom and sides of the drum or vault for airflow and to prevent waterlogging. Add a 12-inch layer of sawdust at the bottom of the chamber to absorb liquid waste and create a carbon-rich environment for decomposition. The composting mix should be added in 6-inch layers, alternating between carbon-rich materials (sawdust, peat moss, and shredded newspaper) and nitrogen-rich materials (humanure).

Maintenance and Upkeep

Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the composting process runs smoothly. Remove the composting chamber every 1-2 months, depending on usage, and add new composting mix to the chamber. Use a pitchfork to turn the compost pile, and check the moisture levels to ensure the pile doesn’t dry out. Store the finished compost in a separate container, and consider using a compost turner to speed up the decomposition process.