Off-Grid Toilet Showdown: Cinderella, Separett Villa, and Nature’s Head
Hi Johnine,
Your barn project has inspired a series of blog posts, but they won’t be scheduled for quite a while, so you get to have a sneak peek! Starting first with toilets! After this research, I believe that the Separett Villa will be the best option for the barn, but it definitely comes with a learning curve. I recommend watching some reviews on YouTube to get some more personal use feedback.
Let’s be honest, choosing the right off-grid toilet is a surprisingly personal decision. It’s about comfort, sustainability, and making sure “nature calls” don’t become a daily ordeal. At Waldron Designs, we believe that even the most utilitarian spaces can be beautiful, functional, and kind to the earth. So, let’s step into the world of three popular off-grid toilets: the Cinderella, Separett Villa, and Nature’s Head. Each brings its own flavor to the table (don’t worry, just a figure of speech), and we’re here to help you find the one that fits your unique paradise.
Cinderella: The Incinerating Marvel
Imagine a toilet that whisks away waste with the wave of a magic wand- well, almost. The Cinderella incinerating toilet is as close as it gets, turning everything into a cup of sterile ash. The propane-powered version, in particular, shines for off-grid living, especially where electricity is scarce or unreliable.
What We Love:
No Water, No Worries: No need for plumbing or sewage- just a propane tank and a 12V battery to run the controls.
Odorless Operation: Thanks to a robust ventilation system, you won’t be greeted by unpleasant smells.
Hygienic and Low Waste: All waste is incinerated, leaving behind a mere handful of ash each week.
What to Consider:
Energy Use: Incineration is energy-intensive, but it happens in short bursts. Compared to composting toilets that run fans continuously, the overall energy use can be similar.
Maintenance: The system requires periodic cleaning, including roof and basement access for venting, and steam cleaning that may need a plumber’s visit to disconnect and reconnect propane lines.
Mixed Reviews: Some users rave about the reliability and customer support, while others have faced frustrating technical issues and slow service responses. When it works, it’s a game changer; when it doesn’t, it can be a headache.
Installation: Not plug-and-play. Expect a learning curve and some setup troubleshooting, especially with propane connections.
Best For: Those who want a waterless, bacteria-free solution and don’t mind a bit of technical tinkering. If you’re in a remote cabin or a place where septic isn’t possible, Cinderella is a strong contender. Just be ready for some hands-on maintenance.
Separett Villa: The Effortless Separator
If you’re after a toilet that feels familiar, is easy to use, and keeps things simple, the Separett Villa is like a breath of fresh Pacific Northwest air. This urine-diverting, waterless composting toilet is celebrated for its reliability and user-friendly design.
What We Love:
Odor-Free: A continuous, energy-sipping fan keeps the space fresh and the waste dry.
Easy Installation: Designed for straightforward setup, whether you’re connected to solar, battery, or regular power.
Minimal Maintenance: Solids drop into a hidden container, dried and hardened by the fan, making weekly disposal a breeze. No bulking material required.
Customer Service: Glowing reviews for quick, friendly support and a generous warranty.
Family Friendly: Works well for both permanent and part-time homes, even with kids in the mix.
What to Consider:
Sitting Only: The design requires all users to sit, which can take some getting used to, especially for men. Some mention the urine compartment feels shallow, but most find it practical after a short learning curve.
Aim Matters: The urine diverter means you’ll want to pay attention to your aim, at least at first.
Cleaning: Like any toilet, it needs regular cleaning, but the process is straightforward and doesn’t require taking the unit apart.
Best For: Households that want a low-maintenance, eco-friendly, and nearly odorless solution. If you value simplicity and reliability, the Separett Villa is a crowd-pleaser-perfect for full-time or vacation homes where you want to focus on living, not managing your waste.
Nature’s Head: The Composting Classic
Nature’s Head is the darling of the vanlife and tiny home communities, and for good reason. This self-contained composting toilet is a masterclass in sustainable, off-grid living.
What We Love:
All-In-One Design: No external tanks or plumbing; just a vent to the outside and you’re set.
Eco-Friendly: Separates liquids and solids, using coconut coir or peat moss to aid decomposition. The result? Odorless operation and compost you can safely add to your yard waste.
Long Intervals Between Emptying: Solids can go weeks before needing disposal, and liquids are easy to dump.
Low Power Draw: The fan uses minimal electricity, making it ideal for solar setups.
What to Consider:
Cleaning: You’ll need to periodically take the unit apart to empty and clean the bins. Some find this a hassle, especially cleaning the corners of the compost chamber and the urine spout.
Learning Curve: Proper use requires sitting for #1, and getting the right balance of moisture and composting medium is key.
Looks Like a Toilet: Guests will know what it’s for, but it’s bulkier than some alternatives.
Best For: DIYers and sustainability enthusiasts who don’t mind a little hands-on maintenance. If you want a portable, waterless solution that’s proven itself in tiny homes, RVs, and cabins, Nature’s Head is a solid bet.
At a Glance: Comparing the Options
| Feature | Cinderella (Propane) | Separett Villa | Nature’s Head |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Incinerating | Urine-diverting compost | Urine-diverting compost |
| Water/Electricity | No water, propane + 12V | No water, low-power fan | No water, low-power fan |
| Odor Control | Excellent ventilation | Continuous fan | Fan + composting medium |
| Maintenance | Ash removal, vent cleaning | Weekly solids disposal | Disassemble to clean |
| Customer Service | Mixed reviews | Excellent | Good |
| Installation | Moderate, needs venting | Easy, needs vent/urine | Easy, needs vent |
| Eco-Impact | Minimal waste, energy use | Compostable, no water | Compostable, no water |
| Best For | Remote, septic-free sites | Family, ease of use | DIY, tiny homes/RVs |
Our Take
We believe the right off-grid toilet is one that fits your lifestyle, your values, and your home’s unique rhythm. The Cinderella brings high-tech magic and minimal waste, but requires a bit more maintenance and troubleshooting. The Separett Villa is the reliable friend-easy, odorless, and low-fuss, ideal for families and those who want a “set it and forget it” solution. Nature’s Head is the rugged, sustainable choice for those who love to get hands-on and don’t mind a little extra cleaning in exchange for composting gold.
No matter which you choose, remember: sustainability can be beautiful, and even the most practical spaces deserve thoughtful design. If you need help weaving these choices into your dream home, we’re here to make every detail-yes, even the bathroom-feel like paradise.
Our Passion. Your Paradise.
