Is this the Best Toilet for Your RV Life: Review of the Laveo Dry Flush Toilet

There’s an unspoken truth among autocaravan enthusiasts: managing the onboard toilet system can be a less-than-glamorous aspect of life on the road. Traditional RV toilets often come with their fair share of challenges—regular maintenance, unpleasant odors, and the dreaded task of emptying black water tanks. Enter the Laveo Dry Flush Toilet, a revolutionary product promising to redefine convenience and comfort for travelers everywhere.

Having recently tested the full autocaravan life with the Laveo Dry Flush, we were eager to put this innovative system to the test. Below is our comprehensive review, highlighting its features, benefits, and areas where it could improve.

Overview of the Laveo Dry Flush Toilet

The Laveo Dry Flush is a portable, waterless toilet system that uses a patented double-bagging process to encapsulate waste after each use. Designed to be self-contained and odorless, it operates without the need for water, chemicals, or external power sources. Its sleek design and ease of use make it an attractive option for autocaravans, boats, cabins, and even home emergencies.

Key Features

• Waterless Operation: Eliminates the need for water, conserving resources and reducing weight in your vehicle.
• Battery-Powered: Runs on a rechargeable battery capable of handling hundreds of flushes, making it ideal for off-grid adventures.
• Double-Bagging System: Uses a unique, patented system that seals waste in airtight bags after each flush, preventing odors.
• Easy Installation: Requires no plumbing or venting; simply place it where you need it.
• Portability: Lightweight and easy to move, allowing flexibility in placement and use.

Pros of the Laveo Dry Flush

1. Exceptional Convenience

The most significant advantage is the sheer convenience it offers. Setting up the Laveo Dry Flush was straightforward—no need to connect to water lines or install vent pipes. It’s essentially a plug-and-play solution, which is a breath of fresh air compared to the complexities of traditional RV toilet systems.

2. Zero Odor Experience

Thanks to the double-bagging system and the use of a magic powder (more on that later), the Laveo Dry Flush effectively neutralizes odors. Even after multiple uses, there was no detectable smell in the autocaravan, enhancing overall comfort during the journey.

3. No Black Water Tanks

By encapsulating waste in individual bags, the need for black water tanks is eliminated. This means no more dealing with messy hoses or scheduling trips around the availability of dump stations. Waste disposal becomes as simple as removing the used cartridge and disposing of it responsibly.

4. Water Conservation

For travelers who frequent remote areas or prefer boondocking, conserving water is crucial. The Laveo Dry Flush uses no water for flushing, significantly reducing water consumption and allowing you to extend your trips without worrying about refilling water tanks.

5. Environmental Considerations

With no need for harsh chemicals typically used in traditional RV toilets, the Laveo Dry Flush is a more environmentally friendly option. Additionally, the cartridges are designed to be landfill-safe, and the magic powder used is often biodegradable.

6. Versatility and Portability

Its lightweight design allows for easy relocation. Whether you want to set it up inside your autocaravan or move it to a privacy tent outside, the choice is yours. This flexibility can be particularly beneficial when traveling with larger groups or when space inside the vehicle is limited.

See the full features of the Laveo Dry Flush here.

Cons to Keep in Mind

1. Cartridge Replacement Costs

Each cartridge provides approximately 15 flushes before needing replacement. Over time, the cost of purchasing new cartridges can add up, especially on extended trips or for larger families. It’s important to factor this ongoing expense into your travel budget.

2. Waste Disposal Logistics

While disposing of the used cartridges is relatively simple, it does require you to have access to appropriate waste disposal facilities. In some remote areas, this could pose a challenge. Additionally, some may have concerns about adding sealed waste bags to landfills, despite them being designed to be landfill-safe.

3. Initial Investment

The upfront cost of the Laveo Dry Flush is higher compared to traditional RV toilets. For travelers on a tight budget, this may be a significant consideration. However, when weighing the initial investment against long-term convenience and savings on water and chemicals, the cost may be justified.

4. Limited Capacity

With a fixed number of flushes per cartridge, users need to be mindful of usage to avoid running out of capacity at inconvenient times. This requires a bit of planning, especially on longer trips.

Enhancing the Experience: The Role of the Dry-Flush Pee Powder

To maximize the efficiency and hygiene of the Laveo Dry Flush, using a magic powder can be a game-changer.

What is Magic Powder?

Magic powder is a biodegradable substance that solidifies liquid waste and neutralizes odors. It’s sprinkled into the toilet bowl after each use, working in tandem with the dry flush system to enhance its performance.

Laveo by Dry-Flush Pee Powder (aka magic powder) is a non-toxic, biodegradable powder that turns liquids into a gel. It not only solidifies urine but it also deodorizes the urine which allows you to receive
multiple uses before needing to “Flush”.

See the full features of the Laveo Dry Flush here.

Benefits of Using Magic Powder

• Odor Neutralization: Further reduces any potential odors, ensuring a fresh-smelling environment.
• Waste Solidification: Transforms liquid waste into a gel-like substance, preventing leaks and making disposal cleaner.
• Eco-Friendly: Typically made from natural, biodegradable materials that are safe for the environment.

How do I use it?
After urinating simply shake a small amount of powder onto the urine and walk away. One
teaspoon is enough to gel 10 ounces of liquid. Because we pee much more than we poop, you
can easily get three uses before flushing. We recommend that you flush and not use the powder
if you poop, and we also recommend that you not extend more than three Pees without flushing.
Why should I use it?
Our Pee Powder saves you money! Instead of getting 15 flushes per cartridge, you can now get
approximately 25 uses! This means your cost per cartridge is reduced by nearly 40%!

Making It Environmentally and Economically Worthwhile

Environmental Impact

While the Laveo Dry Flush reduces water usage and eliminates the need for chemicals, responsible disposal of the waste cartridges is essential. Here are some tips to minimize environmental impact:

• Use Biodegradable Cartridges: Opt for cartridges made from biodegradable materials whenever possible.
• Proper Disposal: Dispose of used cartridges at designated waste facilities or in accordance with local regulations to ensure they are processed correctly.
• Limit Usage: Be mindful of your usage to reduce the number of cartridges used over time.

Cost Considerations

To make the most of your investment:

• Bulk Purchases: Buy cartridges and magic powder in bulk to take advantage of discounts.
• Monitor Usage: Keep track of flushes to maximize each cartridge’s capacity.
• Compare Long-Term Costs: Calculate the savings from reduced water usage, eliminated dump station fees, and absence of chemical purchases to see how they offset cartridge costs over time.

See the full features of the Laveo Dry Flush here.

Personal Experience and Performance

During our tests with the Laveo Dry Flush, we found it to be a reliable and convenient addition to my autocaravan. The installation was quick, and the learning curve was minimal. Here’s how it performed in key areas:

Installation and Setup

The toilet arrived ready to use right out of the box. I simply placed it in the existing bathroom space, secured it according to the instructions, and it was operational within minutes.

Daily Use

Using the Laveo Dry Flush felt no different than a regular toilet in terms of comfort. The flushing mechanism is straightforward—a simple press of a button activates the sealing process. The magic powder was easy to apply and made a noticeable difference in odor control.

Maintenance

Cartridge replacement was uncomplicated. When the indicator signaled it was time for a new cartridge, I followed the steps provided:

1. Open the Unit: Lift the top section to access the cartridge.
2. Remove the Used Cartridge: Carefully lift out the full cartridge, which remains sealed to prevent contact with waste.
3. Insert New Cartridge: Place a new cartridge into the unit, ensuring it’s properly seated.
4. Close and Resume Use: Lower the top section, and the toilet is ready for the next use.

Battery Life

The built-in battery held up well, requiring minimal recharging. Even on extended off-grid trips, it provided consistent performance without draining my vehicle’s power supply.

Customer Support and Warranty

Laveo offers responsive customer support, which is reassuring for users who may have questions or encounter issues. The unit typically comes with a one-year warranty, covering manufacturing defects and providing peace of mind.

Who Should Consider the Laveo Dry Flush?

• Frequent Travelers: Those who spend considerable time on the road and desire a low-maintenance toilet solution.
• Off-Grid Adventurers: Ideal for boondocking or traveling in remote areas where water and dump stations are scarce.
• Eco-Conscious Individuals: Travelers looking to reduce their environmental impact by conserving water and avoiding chemicals.
• Families and Groups: The ease of use and hygiene features make it suitable for groups who prioritize comfort and cleanliness.

Final Verdict

The Laveo Dry Flush Toilet offers a compelling alternative to traditional autocaravan toilet systems. Its convenience, portability, and eco-friendly design make it a strong contender for travelers seeking to simplify their on-road lifestyle.

While there are costs associated with cartridge replacements and an initial investment to consider, the benefits—such as water conservation, odor elimination, and the elimination of black water tanks—provide significant value.

We’re going to use it – Will you?

The Laveo Dry Flush Toilet has the potential to transform your travel experience, making one of the most dreaded chores of autocaravan life a thing of the past. Its innovative design addresses common pain points associated with traditional systems, offering a hygienic, convenient, and eco-friendly solution.

If you’re ready to invest in a product that enhances comfort and simplifies waste management on the road, the Laveo Dry Flush is well worth considering. As with any significant purchase, weigh the pros and cons based on your specific needs and travel habits.

Safe travels, and may your journeys be as comfortable as they are adventurous!