The Ultimate Guide to Vault Toilets: What You Need to Know

Last Updated on May 26, 2023 by Kimberly Crawford

Vault toilets are one of the marvels of modern-day innovation, providing essential sanitation solutions in remote areas where traditional plumbing systems are not viable.

These types of toilets utilize an ingenious design that effectively contains and processes human waste while minimizing environmental impact.

In this comprehensive guide, we aim to illuminate the many benefits of vault toilets and demystify some of the myths surrounding them, so you can make an informed decision about using them.

What is a Vault Toilet?

A Vault Toilet can be defined as a type of non-flush toilet that consists of a concrete, fiberglass, or steel vault situated beneath the ground.

The toilet itself is typically made of durable materials, such as stainless steel or molded plastic. Additionally, it features a toilet seat and a ventilation pipe to assist with odor control.

The key components of a vault toilet are the toilet housing, the waste receptacle, and the ventilation system. The housing is generally designed to be durable, weather-resistant, and resistant to vandalism.

The waste receptacle, which is situated within the vault, can hold up to several hundred gallons of waste and is designed with a series of baffles and screens to separate urine from solid waste and prevent clogs.

Unlike traditional flush toilets, a vault toilet does not require any water or plumbing infrastructure. Instead, the waste within the receptacle is treated with microbial agents or biodegradable bags to minimize odor and facilitate decomposition.

Ultimately, this makes vault toilets an excellent solution for outdoor areas, national parks, and other remote settings where plumbing systems are not viable or environmentally appropriate.

How Vault Toilets Work

Vault toilets are an innovative solution for sanitation needs in remote areas. These types of toilets are designed to effectively contain and process human waste while minimizing environmental impact.

In this section, we will discuss the waste containment process, ventilation system, odor control, and waste removal and maintenance.

Waste Containment Process

The waste containment process in a vault toilet is a simple yet effective process. Whenever someone uses the toilet, the waste is deposited into the waste receptacle. The receptacle is designed with baffles and screens that separate urine from solid waste while preventing clogs.

Once the waste is collected, it is treated with microbial agents or biodegradable bags to minimize odor and facilitate decomposition. The waste in the vault is not meant to be disposed of any differently than other forms of waste. It is not toxic, and properly maintained vault toilets do not emit any pollutants.

Ventilation System and Odor Control

Ventilation is an essential component of any vault toilet. It helps to prevent the accumulation of harmful gases and odors. The ventilation system is designed to assist with airflow and odor control.

Typically, a ventilation pipe is attached to the toilet housing, which allows air to circulate throughout the waste receptacle. This ventilation system promotes aerobic decomposition, which reduces any unpleasant odors.

Waste Removal and Maintenance

Waste removal and maintenance are crucial for the longevity, effectiveness, and safety of your vault toilet. The frequency of waste removal and maintenance depends on the usage level of the toilet. In high-traffic locations, waste must be removed and disposed of appropriately more frequently than lower trafficked areas.

A certified maintenance worker should be responsible for conducting maintenance and waste removal. If left unattended, a full waste receptacle can cause blockages, overflows, and possible environmental harm. Proper maintenance ensures that the toilet is functioning correctly, is sanitary, and remains safe for use.

Pros and Cons of Vault Toilets

Pros:

Vault toilets provide a multitude of benefits that make them a popular choice for remote areas. One of the most significant advantages is the environmental benefit. Traditional flush toilets consume an enormous amount of water, making them a less sustainable choice for areas where water is scarce. On the other hand, vault toilets require no water or plumbing infrastructure, minimizing the environmental impact.

Another significant advantage of vault toilets is they are a cost-effective solution for remote locations. Installing a plumbing system in a remote area can be costly and impractical. Vault toilets, on the other hand, are self-contained and require minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective option for areas where plumbing systems are not available.

Furthermore, the waste containment in vault toilets is a simple process that requires minimal maintenance. Unlike traditional flush toilets, vault toilets don’t generate sewage that needs to be treated. Instead, the waste in vault toilets can remain in the vault, where it’s decomposed over time.

Cons:

Despite the benefits of vault toilets, there are a few downsides to be aware of before deciding to use them. One potential issue is odor. While the ventilation system in vault toilets helps reduce odors, there may still be an unpleasant smell present. Due to their simple design, there is less control in managing odors in vault toilets than with traditional flush toilets.

Another disadvantage is limited user comfort. Vault toilets are typically small, and some users may find them uncomfortable. Unlike flush toilets with a seat that directs waste away from the user’s body, vault toilets require direct contact with the waste receptacle and may not be comfortable for all users.

Finally, vault toilets do not have a flushing mechanism, which some users may find inconvenient or unfamiliar. Without a flushing mechanism, there is also less control over the waste in the receptacle, and some users may be uncomfortable with the lack of control over the waste disposal.

Where You’ll Find Vault Toilets

Vault toilets are becoming increasingly popular in a variety of settings where traditional plumbing systems are not plausible or environmentally appropriate. One of the most common places where you’ll find vault toilets is in national parks and campgrounds.

These areas are often located far away from urban infrastructure, making them ideal for self-contained sanitation solutions like vault toilets. National parks often prioritize environmental conservation, making the eco-friendly design of vault toilets a preferred choice.

Additionally, remote recreational areas are another location where vault toilets are prevalent. These can include hiking trails, wilderness areas, and remote beach locations.

These areas typically have low water availability, and traditional flush toilets are not an option. Vault toilets provide a sustainable and practical solution for human waste disposal in these remote locations.

Off-grid living situations are also becoming more popular for those seeking independent living away from urban areas. In these situations, traditional plumbing infrastructure is often absent, and vault toilets provide a practical and cost-effective solution for sanitation needs.

Vault toilets can be installed in cabins, tiny homes, and other independent living spaces, offering the convenience of a toilet while minimizing environmental impact.

Finally, disaster relief sites are another location where vault toilets are used. When natural disasters strike, there is often a lack of adequate sanitation facilities, posing a significant health risk. Vault toilets provide an accessible and efficient solution for disaster relief workers and those affected by the disaster.

Using a Vault Toilet: Tips and Etiquette

While vault toilets provide a practical and sustainable solution for human waste disposal in remote areas, proper use and etiquette are essential to maintain sanitation and the environment.

Proper Use of Toilet Paper and Waste Disposal

One crucial element of using a vault toilet is proper toilet paper usage and waste disposal. It’s essential to use toilet paper sparingly, as excessive use can cause clogs and other issues with waste processing. Instead, use only the necessary amount of toilet paper and dispose of it properly.

Proper waste disposal is also essential. Users should avoid flushing anything down the toilet that could cause blockages or damage to the vault, such as feminine hygiene products, wet wipes, or paper towels. Instead, dispose of these items in a nearby trash can.

Maintaining Cleanliness and Hygiene

Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in a vault toilet is vital to minimize odors and prevent the spread of disease. Users should sanitize their hands before and after using the toilet and avoid leaving any trash or waste on the toilet seat or floor.

Proper handwashing techniques can prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria, which is particularly important in shared facilities.

To minimize odors, users should close the lid after use and avoid spilling any liquids or waste. Any accidental spills should be cleaned immediately using the supplies provided.

Respecting Other Users and the Environment

Respecting other users and the environment is key when using a vault toilet. Users should be mindful of others waiting to use the toilet, making sure to limit their time inside. Additionally, users should avoid loud and disruptive behavior, respecting the desire for peace and quiet in the outdoor setting.

Users should also respect the environment by using designated areas and avoiding any damage to surrounding plants or wildlife. Littering or damaging the toilet can harm the environment and the local ecosystem.

Pit toilet vs. vault toilet

When it comes to outdoor sanitation, two common options are pit toilets and vault toilets. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are crucial differences between the two.

Pit toilets, also known as pit latrines, consist of a hole in the ground covered by a toilet seat. Waste collects in the pit, which must be periodically emptied, and the waste is transported to a treatment facility.

Pit toilets require no water or plumbing infrastructure, making them a popular choice in areas with low water availability. However, they can pose environmental and health risks, as the waste can contaminate groundwater and cause the spread of disease.

On the other hand, vault toilets utilize an innovative design that effectively contains and processes human waste while minimizing environmental impact.

Instead of a pit, vault toilets have a waste receptacle situated beneath the ground, which can hold up to several hundred gallons of waste and is designed with a series of baffles and screens to separate urine from solid waste and prevent clogs.

The waste is treated with microbial agents or biodegradable bags to minimize odor and facilitate decomposition, eliminating the need for transport to a treatment facility.

One of the significant advantages of vault toilets over pit toilets is that they are more environmentally friendly. With pit toilets, there is a risk of groundwater contamination and exposure to harmful pathogens.

Since vault toilets require no transport or treatment of waste, they are a sustainable choice for areas where traditional plumbing systems are not viable or are environmentally inappropriate. Additionally, vault toilets can be used in high-traffic locations without the risk of waste overflowing.

In terms of maintenance, pit toilets require more regular upkeep, as the pit must be emptied and transported to a treatment facility. In contrast, vault toilets require less maintenance since the waste remains in the receptacle where it decomposes over time.

Vault toilet vs. outhouse

Vault toilets and outhouses are both popular choices for outdoor sanitation needs, but they differ in significant ways. In this section, we will delve deeper into the differences between the two options.

Vault toilets, as described earlier, consist of a non-flush toilet with a waste receptacle situated beneath the ground. The waste is processed and decomposed within the receptacle through the use of microbial agents or biodegradable bags.

Vault toilets require no water or plumbing infrastructure and are a sustainable option for remote areas, national parks, and other settings where traditional plumbing systems are not practical.

Outhouses, on the other hand, are a type of outdoor restroom that dates back to the early 1800s. Outhouses consist of a small building with a hole in the ground, covered by a toilet seat. Outhouses typically have a ventilation system but are not designed for waste decomposition. Instead, waste collects in the pit beneath the hole and must be regularly emptied and transported to a treatment facility.

One significant advantage of vault toilets over outhouses is that there is no need for waste transport or treatment. Since the waste in vault toilets is decomposed within the receptacle, it is a sustainable and more environmentally friendly option. In contrast, the waste in outhouses collects in the pit, which must be emptied regularly, exposing workers to harmful pathogens and potentially contaminating groundwater.

Another significant difference between vault toilets and outhouses is maintenance. Outhouses require more frequent maintenance than vault toilets, as the pit must be emptied and transported to a treatment facility. Vault toilets require less maintenance since the waste remains in the receptacle where it decomposes over time.

Finally, outhouses may present user comfort issues, as waste is directly exposed beneath the toilet seat. In contrast, vault toilets are designed to provide more user comfort and minimal exposure to waste.

Alternatives to Vault Toilets

While vault toilets are an incredible solution for remote sanitation needs, there are alternative options that may better suit certain situations. Here are a few of the most common alternatives to vault toilets:

Portable toilets

Portable toilets are self-contained toilets that are designed to be movable. They are typically used at outdoor events, construction sites, and in disaster relief settings. They function similarly to vault toilets, containing waste in a receptacle that is treated with chemicals for odor control and decomposition.

Bag Toilets

Bag Toilets are a type of portable toilet that is designed to be lightweight and easy to transport. They are commonly used in outdoor settings, particularly in areas where traditional plumbing systems are not available or environmentally appropriate. Unlike vault toilets, Bag Toilets use a disposable bag to collect waste, making them a more hygienic solution.

Bag Toilets consist of a plastic toilet seat that is attached to a foldable frame and a removable bag that collects the waste. The bags are typically made of thick, durable plastic and feature a sealable top that prevents odors from escaping. Once the bag is full, it can be disposed of in a trash can.

One of the benefits of Bag Toilets is their versatility. They can be used in a variety of settings, from camping trips to disaster relief situations. They are also affordable and easy to use, making them a popular solution for those seeking a portable toilet alternative.

However, there are some downsides to using Bag Toilets. The bags themselves are not biodegradable, meaning they will continue to take up space in landfills for years to come. Additionally, the collection and disposal of waste can be a messy process, requiring careful handling to prevent spills or contamination. Overall, Bag Toilets are a practical and portable solution for sanitation needs in outdoor settings, but they may not be the most sustainable or environmentally friendly option.

Composting toilets

Composting toilets are non-flush toilets that utilize a composting system to process waste. They are commonly used in off-grid living situations and eco-friendly homes. These toilets feature a composting chamber that uses natural processes to break down and decompose waste, producing usable compost material.

Chemical toilets

Chemical toilets are self-contained toilets that utilize chemical treatments to manage waste. They are typically found in recreational settings, such as outdoor festivals or camping areas. They function similarly to portable toilets, but use chemicals to break down waste and control odor.

Solar-powered toilets

Solar-powered toilets are an innovative solution that uses solar energy to power the toilet’s ventilation and waste management systems. These toilets are entirely self-contained and require no external infrastructure. They utilize solar power to run fans that circulate air and promote aerobic decomposition of waste.

When choosing between these alternative options, factors to consider include the level of use, environmental impact, and cost. Each of these options has its benefits and drawbacks, so choosing the right one will depend on the specific situation. Regardless of the choice, proper maintenance and use etiquette are essential for maintaining cleanliness, hygiene, and environmental conservation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Vault Toilets are an incredible solution for remote sanitation needs in areas where traditional plumbing systems are not viable or environmentally appropriate.

Whether you’re visiting a national park or living off-grid, vault toilets provide a cost-effective and sustainable option for human waste disposal.

While they may require some user adjustments at first, proper use and etiquette can help ensure that vault toilets remain clean, safe, and respectful of the environment.

With this guide in hand, you now have the information you need to make an informed decision about using a vault toilet for your outdoor needs. Thank you for reading!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Vault Toilets