Cassette toilets aren't something you really want to talk about, or clean. But unfortunately, this is as much a part of motorhome travel as the fun parts. So we've made it easier than ever to clean your cassette toilet in 3 steps.
We recommend cleaning your cassette toilet every 2 days to ensure there aren't any lingering smells. Keep it fresh using these tips, so you never have to even think about it!
Step 1: Before departure
First, whenever your campervan has just left the storage facility or not been used in a while, give the toilet a good clean. This can be done by completely dismantling the toilet so that you can easily reach everything. Be sure to keep track of which part belongs where - we recommend taking a photo first! You can find example videos on YouTube. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to determine which detergent to use. You can find various products for cleaning the toilet bowl and the cassette. Or if you'd prefer a DIY product, try citric acid, chlorine and cleaning vinegar.
After cleaning, spray silicone spray on the rubber parts to prevent the rubber from drying and tearing.
Step 2: On the road
By regularly cleaning the toilet while you’re on the road, you get to spend less time cleaning it afterwards. This will also extend the life of the cassette toilet.
Cleaning during your trip is quick and easy. Simply pour some cleaning detergent into the toilet bowl and let it do its job. Don’t scrub with a (hard) brush, as this may cause scratches that then collect dirt. Wipe the outside regularly with a damp cloth. Regularly top up the water tank and discard the old water. Add rinse water solution to keep the tank and water clean.
Does the toilet use water from the clean water tank? If yes, then check out how to keep this water tank clean.
How to empty a cassette toilet
A light should signal when the cassette is full, but it’s better to empty the cassette whenever you have the chance. You can usually see on a campsite's website whether they have a designated spot for this.
After emptying, rinse the cassette with water (and possibly a little citric acid). Then pour cleaning liquid into the cassette to prevent unpleasant odours and make emptying easier. Only add the liquid with water through the filler hole of the cassette. How much water has to be added depends on the brand. So you should stick to the dosage recommended by the manufacturer. Some toilets have a water tank. Fill this up after you’ve filled the cassette.
Step 3: Upon returning home
Your trips over, but before you head back to real life, there's one unpleasant task to handle first. For this, simply follow step 1 again. Clean the hatch that contains the cassette and water tank and check that there are no leaks.
Be sure to full empty your cassette toilet and water tank, and keep them dry when not in use. Leave the shut-off valve open and spray the rubbers with silicone spray to prevent them from drying out.
There you have it! Everything you need to know to empty your toilet cassette successfully. It's not the most enjoyable task, but you'll be glad once it is handled. Looking to upgrade your motorhome toilet? Or check out tips for cleaning a motorhome chemical toilet!
