Testing the Laveo Dry Flush vs. Traditional Autocaravan Toilets

There’s a certain thrill that comes with preparing for a new adventure—plotting routes on the map, stocking up the autocaravan, and anticipating the open road’s endless possibilities. This time, though, there’s an extra layer of excitement. I’m about to set off with a new gadget on board: the Laveo Dry Flush toilet. It’s my initial test run with this innovative system, and I can’t wait to see how it stacks up against the traditional toilet setup I’ve been using all these years.

If you’re like me, always on the lookout for ways to make road life smoother and more enjoyable, join me as I delve into the pros and cons of the Laveo Dry Flush. Spoiler alert: I have a good feeling about this one.

First Impressions: The Appeal of Laveo Dry Flush

Unpacking the Laveo Dry Flush, I was immediately struck by its sleek, compact design. It promises a hassle-free experience—no water, no chemicals, and no complicated plumbing. For someone who’s spent more time than they’d like wrestling with black water tanks and searching for dump stations, this sounded like a dream come true.

The idea is simple yet ingenious. After each use, the toilet wraps the waste in a double-lined bag, sealing it away without the need for water or chemicals. It’s a self-contained unit that operates on battery power, making it incredibly versatile for off-grid adventures.

Learn more about the Dry Flush system for autocaravans here.

Pros of the Laveo Dry Flush

1. Ease of Use and Installation Setting up the Laveo Dry Flush was a breeze. No need to reroute plumbing or set up elaborate systems—just find a suitable spot, secure it, and it’s ready to go. This simplicity is a significant advantage, especially for those who aren’t particularly handy with tools.
2. Water Conservation One of the biggest perks is the complete elimination of water usage for flushing. Traditional autocaravan toilets can guzzle a surprising amount of water, which is precious when you’re miles away from the nearest refill station. With the Dry Flush, that’s one less resource to worry about.
3. Odor Control The double-lined bagging system effectively seals away waste and odors. In my initial tests at home, I was impressed by how well it contained smells—even after multiple uses. This feature alone could revolutionize comfort levels inside the autocaravan.
4. No Black Water Tanks Perhaps the most liberating aspect is saying goodbye to black water tanks. No more dealing with messy hoses or scheduling trips around dump station locations. Disposal is as simple as removing the used cartridge and tossing it in the trash.
5. PortabilityThe unit’s portability means it can be moved outside the autocaravan if needed. Setting it up in a privacy tent at a campsite is entirely feasible, freeing up space inside and keeping the interior fresh.

Cons to Consider

1. Cartridge Replacement Each cartridge lasts for about 15 flushes (these can be expanded to about 25-28 with the use of the magic powder). On longer trips, this means carrying extra cartridges and being mindful of usage. It’s an adjustment from the more extended intervals between servicing a traditional toilet.
2. Waste Disposal Disposing of used cartridges in the trash can raise environmental concerns. Although the bags are designed to be landfill-safe, it’s essential to consider local regulations and personal environmental impact.
3. Initial and Ongoing Costs The upfront cost of the Laveo Dry Flush is higher than sticking with the traditional system. Additionally, purchasing replacement cartridges adds to ongoing expenses. It’s crucial to weigh these costs against the benefits and savings in other areas.

Learn more about the Dry Flush system for autocaravans here.

The Traditional Autocaravan Toilet system

The biggest difference between the two systems is the convenience the Laveo offers. A traditional autocaravan has its own toilet system or more popularly known as the cassette toilet porta potti. This operates with the vehicle’s water system. And while it resembles a regular toilet at first look, you begin to realize how bothersome it can be once you actually have to start to maintain it.

Main issues of the traditional autocaravan toilet system:

1. Hygiene and cleaning – depending on your vehicle’s setup with ventilation and the cleaning materials you have, you actually need to clean every use if you want to maintain the cleanliness of your toilet. These toilets can get smelly and dirty easily.
2. The evacuation of wastes from the waste compartment (the autocaravan gray water) is extremely bothersome. You have to make sure you know the rules of your city when it comes to throwing this gray water as it cannot be thrown just anywhere and you can get fined if you are seen doing this in illegal places.
3. Throwing the waste will involve so much time management and planning, apart from additional cleaning work (a lot of cleaning!) It’s easily our least favorite task when it comes to managing the autocaravan life and it can be a big timesuck apart from not really liking this task!

Learn more about the Dry Flush system for autocaravans here.

Why Laveo Dry Flush Comes Out on Top

Despite the cons, the Laveo Dry Flush addresses many pain points associated with traditional autocaravan toilets. The convenience of not dealing with black water tanks and the freedom from water dependency significantly enhance the travel experience. The initial costs are offset by savings in water, chemicals, and time—not to mention the added comfort and peace of mind.

Making It Worth It: Environmental Impact and Costs

As someone who cherishes our planet’s natural beauty, the environmental aspect was a critical factor in my decision. Here’s how I’m making the Laveo Dry Flush work in an eco-conscious and cost-effective way:

1. Using Biodegradable Magic PowderI’ll be incorporating a biodegradable “magic powder” with each use. This powder helps solidify waste and neutralize odors further, making the sealed bags even safer for disposal. Knowing that the waste is treated responsibly eases any guilt about adding to landfills.
2. Responsible DisposalI’m committing to disposing of the used cartridges at facilities equipped to handle such waste. While the bags are landfill-safe, taking this extra step ensures minimal environmental impact.
3. Calculating Long-Term SavingsBy analyzing water savings and reduced need for chemicals, I’ve calculated that over time, the costs balance out. Less frequent stops for water refills and eliminating dump station fees contribute to overall savings.
4. Bulk Purchasing CartridgesBuying replacement cartridges in bulk reduces the per-unit cost and ensures I always have a supply on hand. It’s a small investment upfront for long-term convenience.

The Magic Powder: Enhancing the Dry Flush Experience with the Laveo Pee Powder

Learn more about the Dry Flush system for autocaravans here.

Let me dive deeper and tell you a bit more about the magic powder, as it’s an essential part of maximizing the Laveo Dry Flush’s effectiveness.

• What Is It? The magic powder is a special blend of biodegradable materials that absorb liquids and solidify waste. It often contains natural deodorizers like activated charcoal or essential oils.
• How Does It Work?After each use, you sprinkle a small amount of the powder into the bowl. It quickly absorbs moisture, reduces odors, and makes the waste easier to handle during cartridge changes.
• Benefits
  • Enhanced Odor Control: Even though the Dry Flush is already effective at sealing in smells, the magic powder adds an extra layer of freshness.
  • Environmental Friendliness: Most magic powders are eco-friendly, breaking down naturally without releasing harmful chemicals.
  • Ease of Disposal: Solidified waste is less prone to leakage or puncturing the bags, ensuring a cleaner disposal process.

Final Thoughts Before Hitting the Road

As we load up the autocaravan, we feel a mix of excitement and anticipation. The Laveo Dry Flush represents a step towards more sustainable and hassle-free travel. While it’s not without its adjustments—like managing cartridge supplies and being mindful of waste disposal—I’m optimistic that the benefits will far outweigh the inconveniences.

The freedom from water dependency, the elimination of black water tanks, and the peace of mind knowing I’m reducing my environmental footprint make it a worthy upgrade. Plus, the thought of not wrestling with hoses at cramped dump stations brings a smile to my face.

Stay Tuned for the Journey Ahead

I’ll be documenting my experiences with the Laveo Dry Flush throughout this trip. From boondocking in remote locales to staying at well-equipped campsites, it will be interesting to see how it performs in various settings.

If you’re considering making a switch or just curious about alternative toilet solutions for your autocaravan, I invite you to follow along. I’ll share honest feedback, tips, and maybe a few anecdotes about the highs and lows of embracing this new system.

Here’s to new adventures, fewer worries, and embracing innovations that make life on the road even more rewarding!

Happy travels, and may your journeys be flush with comfort and joy!