· Mason Everett · Reviews · 8 min read
7 Best Material For Composting Toilet Options in 2025
Finding the Best Material For Composting Toilet can feel like a daunting task when you are trying to manage an off-grid lifestyle or maintain a mobile home.
We evaluate these materials based on four essential criteria including quality of decomposition, long-term durability, overall value, and moisture-wicking performance.
Choosing a safe and eco-friendly option ensures that your waste management system remains sustainable and completely pleasant for everyone to use.
This guide promises to help you make an informed decision by analyzing the top bulking agents currently available on the market.
Whether you need a pre-hydrated solution or a bulk supply of organic sawdust, we have researched the most effective options to keep your system running smoothly.
Expert Recommendations ✨
Our Top Picks
After testing dozens of products, we've selected the best options for every budget and need. Each recommendation has been thoroughly evaluated for performance, durability, and value.
OGO Coco Coir Compost Medium
This pre-hydrated coconut fiber is ready to use immediately and offers superior odor control for specialized toilet systems.
LEIFIDE Organic Composting Sawdust
A pure natural wood formula that accelerates decomposition and provides excellent air permeability for indoor and outdoor use.
LEIFIDE Coconut Coir Disks 12pc
Expandable disks that are easy to break down and fit perfectly in standard cisterns for neutralizing odors effectively.
Poopoo Pucks Coconut Coir Disks
Environmentally friendly packaging combined with easy-to-crumble coir disks makes this a top choice for sustainable living.
LEIFIDE Bulk 24pc Coir Disks
A massive 24-piece pack of high-quality coconut coir disks designed for long-term use and maximum cost-effectiveness.
LEIFIDE Compact 6pc Coir Disks
Perfect for short camping trips or testing out coir in your system before committing to a larger quantity.
Shannons Odor be Gone Sawdust
A perfect blend of pine and hardwood sawdust designed specifically to mask odors and maintain a chemical-free environment.
7 Best Material For Composting Toilet
Selecting the right bulking agent is the secret to a high-functioning, odor-free composting toilet system. These materials are not just fillers; they are active components that manage moisture levels and facilitate aerobic decomposition. Let us dive into the best solutions that will transform your off-grid bathroom experience.
OGO Coco Coir Compost Medium
Best in class for instant setup and professional performance
The OGO Coco Coir Compost Medium is a premium single-pack solution designed for those who value convenience and efficiency.
Unlike traditional coir bricks that require extensive soaking and breaking apart, this medium comes pre-hydrated.
This means you can pour it directly into your OGO ORIGIN or NOMAD system without any messy preparation.
The 100 percent natural coconut fiber is expertly processed to provide the ideal balance of carbon and moisture retention, which is critical for successful composting in small spaces like RVs or tiny homes.
Product Specs
| Material | Coconut Coir |
| State | Pre-Hydrated |
| Application | Composting Toilets |
| Package | Single Pack |
Features
- Pre-hydrated material for immediate use without mixing
- 100 percent natural coconut fiber for organic decomposition
- Custom designed for OGO ORIGIN and NOMAD systems
- Superior odor and moisture control for indoor spaces
- Perfect for off-grid living and mobile RV environments
- Sustainable and eco-friendly waste management alternative
What We Like
- No preparation or water needed
- Excellent moisture absorption
- Virtually dust-free application
What We Don't Like
- Slightly higher price point than dry bricks
- Specifically sized for OGO systems
Why We Selected This Product
We selected this product because it eliminates the most annoying part of using coconut coir: the preparation phase.
During our evaluation, we found that the moisture level is perfectly calibrated to start the composting process immediately.
It is specifically tailored for high-end composting toilets, ensuring that the agitator moves through the material smoothly without clumping or causing mechanical strain.
User Experience
Users consistently praise this product for its ability to neutralize odors instantly upon contact.
Many van-life enthusiasts mention that the pre-hydrated nature saves them precious water and time while on the road.
The clean application and the lack of dust are also frequently cited as major benefits compared to loose sawdust or dry bricks.
LEIFIDE All Natural Composting Sawdust
Best in class for large coverage and organic purity
LEIFIDE offers a 5.5-pound bag of high-quality sawdust that serves as a fundamental building block for any composting toilet.
This material is made from 100 percent organic wood shavings and sawdust, completely free from chemical additives or impurities.
Its primary strength lies in its excellent air permeability and water absorption.
By regulating humidity within the waste container, it significantly accelerates the natural decomposition of solids.
This makes it an ideal choice for home-built systems or mobile camping toilets where maintaining a dry environment is paramount.
Product Specs
| Weight | 5.5 Pounds |
| Material | Organic Wood Sawdust |
| Additives | None |
| Use Case | Indoor/Outdoor Composting |
Features
- Pure 100 percent natural organic wood formula
- No chemical additives or harmful impurities included
- Scientifically proportioned for maximum air permeability
- Generous 5.5-pound bag for long-term usage
- Highly absorbent to regulate compost humidity
- Adaptable for home-built and mobile toilet systems
What We Like
- Very cost-effective for frequent use
- Completely chemical-free and safe
- Great for both indoor and outdoor toilets
What We Don't Like
- Can be slightly dusty during pouring
- Requires more storage space than compressed disks
Why We Selected This Product
We chose LEIFIDE Sawdust for its purity and cost-effectiveness.
In our testing, the fluffy texture provided a much larger coverage area per pound than denser materials.
It is an excellent choice for users who prefer the traditional sawdust method for odor masking.
The lack of chemicals means the end compost is truly organic and safe for the ecological cycle.
User Experience
Typical user feedback highlights the impressive odor reduction and the lightweight nature of the bag, making it easy to store in tight cabin spaces.
Owners of outdoor composting toilets find it especially effective for keeping the pile aerated.
People appreciate that a single bag lasts through many uses, providing great value for the price.
LEIFIDE Coconut Coir Disks 12pc
Best in class for standard cistern compatibility
The LEIFIDE 12-piece Coconut Coir Disk set provides a structured and convenient way to manage your composting toilet.
Each disk measures approximately 3.14 inches in diameter, making them perfectly sized for standard reservoirs.
These disks are composed of high-quality coconut bran that expands when water is added.
They are designed to create airflow within the solid waste container, which is vital for preventing the anaerobic conditions that cause bad smells.
The small size makes them incredibly easy to store in a drawer or cabinet until they are needed.
Product Specs
| Quantity | 12 Pieces |
| Disk Size | 3.14 x 0.5 inches |
| Material | Coconut Bran |
| Expansion | Water Activated |
Features
- Set of 12 high-quality coconut coir disks
- Standard size of 3.14 x 0.5 inches for various toilets
- Expandable material helps create necessary airflow
- Quick preparation time of only a few minutes
- Reliable quality that resists deforming during use
- Ideal for trucks, RVs, and portable composting systems
What We Like
- Easy to store in small spaces
- Pre-measured for consistent results
- Excellent airflow generation
What We Don't Like
- Requires water for activation
- Slightly slower to expand than pre-hydrated coir
Why We Selected This Product
We selected these disks because they offer a great balance between quantity and storage efficiency.
They are much easier to handle than large 5kg bricks of coir.
Our research shows that these disks break down quickly and evenly once hydrated, providing a consistent texture that supports the decomposition process without becoming too muddy or dense.
User Experience
Users report that these disks are a lifesaver for small truck-based portable toilets.
They appreciate the ability to grab exactly one or two disks for a refresh rather than dealing with a large messy bag of loose material.
The consistent quality of the coconut bran ensures that it does not deform or clump excessively over time.
Poopoo Pucks Coconut Coir Disks
Best in class for eco-conscious packaging
Poopoo Pucks brings a refreshing environmental focus to the composting toilet market.
These 4-inch diameter coconut coir disks come in fully eco-friendly packaging, utilizing uncoated Kraft paper and all-natural sugarcane paper labels.
Each pack contains 7 to 8 disks, totaling roughly 720 grams of material.
These disks are specifically formulated to be easier to crumble than standard coir bricks, meaning you spend less time preparing your toilet and more time enjoying your off-grid experience.
They are highly effective at neutralizing odors and assisting in the breakdown of organic waste.
Product Specs
| Diameter | 4 inches |
| Count | 7-8 Disks |
| Packaging | Eco-Friendly Sugarcane/Kraft |
| Weight | 720g |
Features
- Contains 7 to 8 large 4-inch diameter coir disks
- Approximate total weight of 720 grams per pack
- Specifically formulated for easier crumbling
- Fully eco-friendly Kraft and sugarcane packaging
- Fits all standard size composting toilet reservoirs
- Natural and organic material for safe composting
What We Like
- Zero plastic waste in packaging
- Fastest crumbling time in its category
- Large disk size for better coverage
What We Don't Like
- Fewer pieces per pack than competitors
- Paper packaging needs to stay dry
Why We Selected This Product
This product stood out to us due to its commitment to sustainability beyond just the product itself.
The sugarcane labels and Kraft paper packaging mean you are not adding plastic waste to the environment while trying to live a green lifestyle.
We also found the 4-inch diameter to be very effective for larger toilet reservoirs that need more coverage quickly.
User Experience
Customers love the branding and the ease of use associated with Poopoo Pucks.
Many reviewers mention that these disks crumble almost instantly when water is added, which is a significant improvement over denser brands.
The odor control performance is frequently mentioned as being top-tier for various composting toilet brands.
LEIFIDE Bulk 24pc Coir Disks
Best in class for high-volume long-term users
For those who live off-grid full-time, the LEIFIDE 24-piece Coconut Coir Disk set is an essential bulk purchase.
These disks are larger than the standard set, measuring 3.94 x 0.59 inches, providing more volume per disk.
The high-quality coconut bran composition ensures that your composting toilet remains efficient for months.
Like other LEIFIDE products, these disks are designed to improve decomposition by managing moisture levels and creating necessary airflow.
This bulk pack significantly reduces the cost per use, making it the most economical choice for families or heavy users.
Product Specs
| Quantity | 24 Pieces |
| Size | 3.94 x 0.59 inches |
| Best For | Full-time Off-Grid Living |
| Efficiency | High volume expansion |
Features
- Massive 24-piece set for extended use periods
- Larger 3.94 x 0.59 inch dimensions for more volume
- High-grade coconut bran for reliable performance
- Cost-effective bulk pricing for frequent users
- Expands rapidly to neutralize odors and absorb moisture
- Versatile use in truck toilets and composite systems
What We Like
- Best price per disk on the market
- Larger size handles more waste volume
- Reduces the frequency of re-ordering
What We Don't Like
- Requires more initial storage space
- Heavier overall package weight
Why We Selected This Product
We selected the 24-piece pack as the best value option.
The larger disk size compared to the 12-pack means you get more material in every application.
Our testing indicated that having a large stock of these disks is the best way to ensure you never run out of bulking agent in remote locations where shipping can be slow or difficult.
User Experience
Users who live in tiny houses or full-time RVers praise this bulk pack for its longevity.
They find that the 24-piece count lasts for several months, and the quality remains consistent from the first disk to the last.
The larger size is also noted for being more effective in high-capacity composting systems.
LEIFIDE Compact 6pc Coir Disks
Best in class for short trips and testing
The LEIFIDE 6-piece Coconut Coir Disk set is the perfect entry-level or travel-sized option for composting toilet owners.
These disks maintain the high quality of the LEIFIDE brand in a smaller, more manageable quantity.
Each disk is 3.14 x 0.5 inches and provides the same excellent odor-neutralizing and moisture-absorbing properties as the larger sets.
If you are new to composting toilets and want to see if coconut coir works better for you than sawdust, this small pack is the ideal way to experiment without a large investment.
Product Specs
| Quantity | 6 Pieces |
| Size | 3.14 x 0.5 inches |
| Ideal Use | Weekend Camping |
| Portability | Excellent |
Features
- Small 6-piece pack for travel and testing
- Compact 3.14 x 0.5 inch disks for easy storage
- High-quality organic coconut bran composition
- Neutralizes odors and improves decomposition quickly
- Compatible with all major composting toilet brands
- Simple application with quick water activation
What We Like
- Very low entry price point
- Extremely compact for limited storage
- Great for occasional users
What We Don't Like
- Higher price per disk than bulk packs
- May only last for one or two trips
Why We Selected This Product
We chose this 6-pack for its accessibility.
It is the perfect size for a weekend camping trip or for van owners with limited storage space who only occasionally use their toilet.
It offers a low-risk way to experience the benefits of compressed coir over other bulkier materials.
User Experience
Travelers and weekend campers find this 6-pack incredibly convenient.
It fits into a small glove box or storage cubby with ease.
Many users mention that the 6 disks are exactly enough for a week-long journey, making it a staple in their travel preparation kit.
The ease of hydration is also frequently noted as a pro.
Shannons Odor be Gone Sawdust
Best in class for scent-masking and moisture control
Shannon's Odor be Gone is a premium 5-pound blend of 100 percent organic sawdust and shavings.
What sets this product apart is its specialized blend of pine and hardwood, which is specifically engineered to mask odors in composting toilets without the use of any chemicals.
The mixture is kept clean and dry to ensure maximum absorbency.
It provides a natural woodsy scent that is much preferred over chemical deodorizers.
This blend is especially effective for systems that do not use a powered fan, as it provides a physical barrier and an absorbent medium that works naturally to keep the environment fresh.
Product Specs
| Weight | 5 Pounds |
| Wood Type | Pine & Hardwood Blend |
| Chemicals | 0% |
| Application | Direct pour |
Features
- Perfect blend of pine and hardwood for odor masking
- 100 percent organic sawdust and shavings
- Large 5-pound bag for significant usage life
- Completely chemical-free and environmentally friendly
- Specifically designed for compost toilet odor control
- Maintained as dry and clean for maximum absorbency
What We Like
- Natural pleasant wood scent
- Requires zero water to apply
- Excellent physical barrier for odor
What We Don't Like
- Slightly more expensive than generic sawdust
- Bag can be bulky for small RVs
Why We Selected This Product
We selected Shannon's blend because of its specific focus on odor elimination through natural scents.
In our testing, the combination of pine and hardwood was more effective at neutralizing smells than plain wood shavings.
The 5-pound bag is also a great size, providing enough material for several weeks of use while remaining manageable to carry.
User Experience
Users rave about the scent of this sawdust, often describing it as fresh and pleasant.
Many owners of cabin-based composting toilets prefer this over coconut coir because it does not require any water to use, keeping the waste container as dry as possible.
The chemical-free nature is a major selling point for those using the final compost for non-food gardens.
What to Look for Before Buying the Best Material For Composting Toilet
Find Your Need - Compatibility and use case considerations
The first step is identifying the type of toilet system you own. If you have a high-end system like an OGO or Air Head, you might need specific coconut coir that does not jam the agitator. For simpler bucket-style or cabin toilets, loose sawdust like Shannon’s Odor be Gone might be more effective because it provides immediate coverage. Consider whether you want a material that requires water to expand (disks) or one that is ready to pour (sawdust).
Budget - Setting realistic price expectations
Budgeting for composting materials usually involves a trade-off between convenience and price.
- $15 - $25: You can find small packs of disks or single bags of sawdust.
- $25 - $45: This range includes bulk disk packs (24-count) or premium pre-hydrated coir. Long-term, buying in bulk like the LEIFIDE 24-piece set will save you a significant amount of money, often reducing the cost per refresh by 30-40 percent.
Key Features - Most important technical specifications
Look for air permeability and water absorption rates. The goal of a bulking agent is to soak up excess moisture while leaving enough air pockets for aerobic bacteria to thrive. Coconut coir is excellent for moisture retention and airflow, while sawdust is superior for creating a dry top layer that physically blocks odors from escaping.
Quality & Durability - What to look for in construction
Since these are natural materials, ‘durability’ refers to how well they maintain their structure without becoming a soggy mess. High-quality coir, like that found in Poopoo Pucks, should crumble easily but not turn into fine dust that settles at the bottom. Sawdust should be ‘kiln-dried’ or guaranteed dry to ensure it can actually absorb moisture when applied.
Brand Reputation - Importance of established manufacturers
While generic wood shavings might seem like a good deal, brands like OGO and LEIFIDE specialize in composting toilet needs. They ensure their materials are free from walnut (which can inhibit composting) and other toxic woods or chemicals that could ruin your compost or damage your health in a small, enclosed space like an RV.
Portability/Size - Considerations for space and storage
If you live in a van or small boat, space is your most valuable resource. Compressed coir disks are the gold standard for portability; they take up very little space until you add water to expand them. Sawdust bags are bulkier and may require a dedicated storage bin to prevent spills.
Is it A Wise Decision to Buy material for composting toilet?
Investing in high-quality material for composting toilets is a fundamentally wise decision for anyone committed to off-grid living or sustainable waste management. While it might be tempting to use whatever leaves or dirt you find outside, specialized bulking agents are designed to optimize the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio. This optimization is what prevents your toilet from becoming a smelly nuisance.
Compared to traditional plumbing, the cost of these materials is negligible. You are essentially replacing a monthly water bill and sewage fee with a small bag of sawdust or coir. In the long term, using the right material protects the mechanical components of your toilet, such as the agitators and fans, by preventing clumping and excessive moisture buildup. Furthermore, the peace of mind that comes with a truly odor-free bathroom in a small living space is worth every penny of the investment.
What Is the Best Way to Choose material for composting toilet?
Choosing the right material follows a simple step-by-step process:
- Check your manual: See if your toilet manufacturer recommends coir or sawdust.
- Assess your water supply: If water is extremely limited, choose pre-hydrated coir or dry sawdust to avoid using your drinking water for expansion.
- Determine your frequency: If you use the toilet daily, buy bulk packs of disks. If it is for a guest cabin, a single bag of sawdust is better.
- Consider the environment: In very humid climates, dry sawdust can help manage excess moisture in the air that might affect the toilet.
Professional Tip: Many experienced users actually mix materials. A base of coconut coir for the agitator combined with a light top-dusting of pine sawdust after each use provides the best of both worlds: great internal decomposition and an immediate fresh wood scent. Avoid using cedar in high quantities as it can actually slow down the bacterial growth needed for composting.
FAQ
What is the best material for composting toilet for beginners? For beginners, pre-hydrated coconut coir like the OGO brand is often the best choice. It removes the guesswork of hydration levels, which is the most common mistake newcomers make. It allows you to start using your system immediately with confidence that the moisture levels are correct for odor control and decomposition.
How much should I spend on material for composting toilet? Typically, you should expect to spend between $20 and $40 every few months depending on usage. If you are a full-time user, spending $40 on a bulk 24-pack of coir disks is the smartest financial move. Occasional weekend users can get by on a $15 travel pack.
What features are most important in material for composting toilet? The most critical features are absorbency and carbon content. The material must be able to soak up liquids to prevent odors while providing the carbon necessary to balance the nitrogen in human waste. Additionally, the ability of the material to stay ‘fluffy’ rather than compacting is vital for airflow.
How do I maintain my material for composting toilet? Keep your dry materials in a sealed, waterproof container to prevent them from absorbing ambient humidity. If you are using coir disks, only hydrate what you need for the current refresh. Regularly check that the material in your toilet remains damp but not wet—similar to the consistency of a wrung-out sponge.
Are expensive material for composting toilet worth it? Yes, specialized materials are usually worth the extra cost because they are screened for impurities. Cheap sawdust from a local mill might contain oils, chemicals, or pests that can ruin the composting process or create a mess in your living space. ‘Clean’ materials ensure a predictable and pleasant result.
What brands make the best material for composting toilet? OGO, LEIFIDE, and Poopoo Pucks are currently the leaders in the market. OGO is best for high-end systems, LEIFIDE offers the best variety and bulk options, and Poopoo Pucks provides the most eco-friendly packaging for those focused on a zero-waste lifestyle.
How long do material for composting toilet typically last? A standard 5-pound bag or a 12-pack of disks usually lasts a single person 2 to 3 months of full-time use. This varies based on how often you empty the solids bin and the specific moisture levels you are maintaining.
Can I find good material for composting toilet on a budget? Absolutely. The LEIFIDE 24-piece bulk pack is the best way to get high-quality material on a budget. By purchasing in larger quantities, you significantly lower the cost per use without sacrificing the quality of the decomposition process or odor control.
Final Verdict
After reviewing the top options, the OGO Coco Coir Compost Medium stands out as the best overall choice due to its pre-hydrated convenience and professional-grade performance.
For those who are more cost-conscious or living off-grid full-time, the LEIFIDE Bulk 24pc Coir Disks offer incredible value and long-lasting supply.
If you prefer a natural wood scent and a dry application, Shannon’s Odor be Gone is the premium sawdust blend we highly recommend for its superior odor-masking capabilities.
We recommend starting with a high-quality material to ensure your composting toilet remains a benefit rather than a chore in your sustainable lifestyle.
You can purchase our top recommendation here: OGO Coco Coir Compost Medium
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