Cassette or separation toilet?
A practical guide for motorhome owners
Choosing a toilet system for your motorhome sounds easy and simple but with all the new developments in the market, it can feel a bit daunting. While cassette toilets are still the most popular options for leisure vehicle owners, separation toilets are on the rise, and both systems have their own strengths.
In our previous article about choosing a toilet system, we explored a wide array of RV toilets. In this guide, we zoom in on cassette toilets and separation toilets and compare them in a practical, honest way, so that you can make the right decision.
How do cassette and separation toilets work?
Daily use on the road: what’s the difference?
When you’re travelling, it’s not the system itself that matters most, it’s how it fits your daily routine.
Most people are used to the cassette toilet and the daily routine of using and emptying it. Smell control is handled effectively by toilet additives and regular emptying, and cleaning is straightforward with dedicated cleaning and maintenance products as well. Most campsites and motorhome sites, as well as a lot of motorway service sites have facilities to empty the cassette, making it a good choice for a lot of RV enthusiasts.
The separation toilet works differently. There is no flush, and smell control depends on good ventilation and the use of optional consumables. Emptying routines are different for solids and liquids but not depending on dedicated disposal points. Many travellers are getting used to this new routine very fast, and appreciate the flexibility of the system.
Neither option is better, they simply suit different expectations of comfort, flexibility and involvement.
Cassette toilet vs separation toilet at a glance
Here is how the two systems compare at a glance:
Both the cassette toilet and separation toilet are reliable and practical systems. The right choice is what toilet lets you travel carefree without worrying about your daily routines.
Whatever you choose, we are here to help you make the most of it.
Frequently asked questions
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Our Separation Toilet builds on the trusted C220 and C260 cassette toilets, used in many motorhomes and caravans across Europe. That means you benefit from a proven platform, familiar installation and access to Thetford’s European service network.
If you already have a C220 or C260, you can install the Separation Kit and convert your existing toilet without replacing the full unit.
The system is fully integrated and serviced through the exterior service door, so you do not have to carry waste through your vehicle. The urine and solid containers, or waste bags made from recycled plastic, are removed directly from outside. The urine tank has a secure, leak free connection to help prevent spills.
The toilet works without water and any drying agents or cleaners are optional. The bowl and blade are designed to guide waste correctly and reduce splashing, while keeping cleaning simple.
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They are similar, but not the same. A separation toilet simply separates liquids from solids, and no composting happens in the toilet itself. A composting toilet is a more involved system that breaks down waste over time, usually with added materials and ventilation. Separation toilets are simpler and easier to use.
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Yes, the design is based on our popular C220 and C260 cassette toilets, so you can expect the same ergonomic comfort. It is built with both male and female anatomy in mind, ensuring ease of use for everyone.
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Using a separation toilet reduces water consumption and eliminates the need for additives. It also helps extend your off-grid time. Many see this as a more conscious way to travel.
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Urine can simply be poured into any regular toilet.
Solid waste can be disposed of with regular household waste (always check local regulations to be sure).
By adding a drying agent, liquids are absorbed and you’re left with much drier, easier-to-handle waste. The Separation Toilet Waste Bags are made from recycled plastic and produced using the strongest material available, so they safely contain the waste when closed correctly and prevent leaks or unpleasant odours.
Of course, local regulations decide what’s allowed. But thanks to the Separation Toilet Drying Agent and our extra-strong Waste Bags, disposing of your waste is a clean, simple and worry-free process.
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The kit can be used to transfer any C220 or C260 toilet into a separation toilet.
Only if you have a S220CW, and you want to install the optional ventilator kit, an extra wiring harness is needed. Spare number: 200963.
In case you have a C260CWE and you want to install the optional ventilator kit, we advice to get a full S260CS toilet, since this has the correct wiring harness inside. -
If you travel off-grid often or don’t want to use flush water or chemicals, this system offers comfort, hygiene, and flexibility. The system does not require water to operate and consumables are optional.
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A Thetford cassette toilet is a lightweight and compact toilet designed for use in caravans and motorhomes. The waste is stored in a removable cassette tank, which can be easily emptied into a designated waste disposal point. Watch the video for full instructions.
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Yes. In most situations it is possible to replace the toilet. Contact your dealer or Thetford Service Centre for the possibilities.
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To empty the waste holding tank of a cassette toilet, follow these steps:
- Locate a dedicated waste disposal facility
- Remove the waste-holding tank from the vehicle
- Keep the vent button pressed down during emptying to prevent unwanted splashing, and to allow the contents to drain into the designated waste disposal facility
- Close the valve and securely fasten the waste-holding tank back into place
- Rinse the waste-holding tank and toilet cassette with clean water until fully clean
- Watch the video below for full instructions.
