Caravan & RV Cassette Toilets Explained
If you're heading off on a caravan or RV adventure, there’s one not-so-glamorous topic that’s worth getting sorted: the toilet. Whether you’re new to life on the road or just need a refresher, understanding your caravan or RV cassette toilet will make your trip cleaner, easier, and a lot more comfortable.
In this guide, we’ll break down what cassette toilets are, how they work, and how to use and maintain them properly—without the confusion or the mess.
What Is a Cassette Toilet?
A cassette toilet is the type of toilet you’ll usually find built into a caravan or motorhome. It’s a fixed toilet that looks and feels a bit like a home loo, but instead of being plumbed into a sewer, it stores waste in a removable tank (called a cassette).
You can empty the waste tank manually at a designated point, like a campsite’s Chemical Disposal Point (CDP).
Explore Thetford cassette toilets and accessories at Caravan & Camping Aus.
How Does a Caravan Cassette Toilet Work?
A caravan cassette toilet is made up of two main parts:
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Top Section: This includes the toilet seat, lid, and flush water tank.
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Bottom Section: This is the cassette, or waste-holding tank, which you can slide out and empty when full.
Some models are basic, while others include features like an electric flush, swivel bowls to save space, and even wheels on the waste tank to make it easier to transport.
Check out the Thetford Porta Potti range for top-tier options that are popular across Australia.
Using a Cassette Toilet in Your Caravan or RV
Using a cassette toilet is simple once you get the hang of it:
Step 1: Add Chemicals
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Use pink toilet chemicals in the flush water tank to keep things clean and smelling fresh.
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Use blue or green chemicals in the waste tank to break down waste and control odours.
Tip: Green chemicals are more environmentally friendly and are often preferred by caravan parks.
Step 2: Go as Usual
Just use the toilet like you would at home. Try not to flush anything except toilet paper - ideally quick-dissolve toilet paper, which breaks down easily in the tank.
Step 3: Empty When Full
Most cassettes hold around 20 litres. For a couple, that’s about three days of use without using campsite facilities.
Always empty your toilet at a Chemical Disposal Point (CDP) or Elsan Point, never into a stormwater drain or standard grey water point.
How to Empty a Caravan Cassette Toilet
Emptying a cassette toilet sounds gross, but it’s easy if done right:
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Remove the cassette from the external hatch on your van.
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Take it to the disposal point.
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Twist the spout, unscrew the cap, and press the air valve button as you pour—this prevents splashing.
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Rinse it out and add fresh toilet chemicals before reinstalling.
Keeping Your Toilet in Good Shape
Proper maintenance helps avoid bad smells and costly repairs.
Cleaning Tips:
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Use regular cleaning products on the outside of the toilet.
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Use designated toilet chemicals only inside the waste tank and flush tank.
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Don’t overuse chemicals—it won’t make things cleaner and can harm the environment.
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Store chemicals safely and check the label for dosage instructions. You can also try Thetford toilet tablets for convenient, pre-measured use.
What Can You Flush in a Caravan Cassette Toilet?
Stick to:
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Human waste
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Toilet paper (preferably quick-dissolve)
Avoid flushing:
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Wet wipes
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Nappies
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Sanitary items
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Tissues or paper towel
These items don’t break down and can clog the system fast.
FAQs About Caravan Toilets
❓How often should you empty a caravan toilet?
Usually every 2–3 days, depending on how many people are using it. Most cassettes hold around 20L.
❓Can I use normal toilet paper in a caravan toilet?
Yes, but quick-dissolve toilet paper is better. It breaks down faster and helps avoid blockages.
❓What’s the difference between blue and green toilet chemicals?
Blue chemicals break down waste and mask smells but often contain formaldehyde. Green chemicals do the same but are formaldehyde-free and better for the environment.
❓Where do you empty caravan toilet waste?
Always at a Chemical Disposal Point (CDP) at a caravan park or campground. Never into storm drains, greywater drains, or near fresh water.
❓Do I need toilet chemicals in a cassette toilet?
Yes. They help break down waste, control odour, and keep the system working properly. Find a full range of Thetford toilet chemicals at Caravan & Camping Aus.
Need Help Choosing a Caravan Toilet or Supplies?
At Caravan & Camping Aus, we’re here to help you get the most out of your adventure. Whether you’re shopping for cassette toilets, eco-friendly toilet chemicals, or just need a hand understanding how it all works, we’ve got the gear—and the know-how—to get you sorted.
Visit us online or in-store to browse our full range of caravan and RV essentials.
Final Tip: Read your toilet’s instruction manual before your first trip. Knowing how it works can make the difference between a smooth ride and a smelly situation.