How to Build Chemical Toilets

Being environmentally responsible protects nature and promotes good health.

Building a chemical toilet can be a useful skill if you're camping and there is no access to toilet facilities, or in case of an emergency as a survival skill. Chemical toilets are common in the form of porta-toilets frequently found on construction sites, and the same principles that are used for them can be used in constructing a simple chemical toilet. You can use specially purchased chemical solutions or common household items. A chemical toilet facilitates both sanitation and ecology.

Things You'll Need

• 5 gallon or medium-sized plastic bucket
• 2 pieces of 18-inch-long wood, 2 to 4 inches wide
• 2 boxes of garbage can liners
• 1 or 2 plastic lids
• 1 gallon of liquid chlorine bleach or formaldehyde
• Liquid floor cleaner
• Glutaraldehyde solution
• Shovel
• Biodegradable toilet paper

Instructions

1. Line a five-gallon bucket with a garbage bag.

2. Place two boards across the bucket. This will serve as a seat for the make-shift chemical toilet. Optionally, you can purchase a standard toilet seat to place over the bucket.

3. Pour in after each use a chemical solution of 1/2 a cup of chlorine and one cup of a household cleansing solution, such as what you might clearn the kitchen floor with. Optionally, solutions of 1/4 cup of formaldehyde along with a 1/4 cup of glutaraldehyde solution can be used. Glutaraldehyde is a pungent colorless and oily liquid, and is used as a disinfectant of medical and dental equipment as well as in industrial water treatment. Commercially prepared solutions for camping specifically made for chemical toilets are offered in both liquid and powder form.

4. Cover the container securely when it is not in use. Don't allow any openings in the covering, as these can attract flies or other vermin.

5. Dig a hole about two or three feet deep. Make sure that it is at least 50 to 75 feet away from any well or water supply. Be aware of local regulations prohibiting the burial of human waste. You can check with the local health department or listen to the local radio in national or state park areas.

Tips & Warnings

• A five gallon bucket can be used effectively, such as the type used for joint compound in construction.

• Use biodegradable toilet paper for waste that will be buried outdoors. This will be clearly stated on the packaging and will contribute to sound ecology.

• Be aware of local health regulations on burying or disposing of human refuse from chemical toilets.

References

• InspectAPedia: How to Use and Maintain a Chemical Toilet or "Porta Potty"

Resources

• Let's Getaway.com
• REI: Reliance Luggable Loo