Urine diverter kits

How urine diverter kits work in mobile and off grid spaces

Urine diverter kits separate liquids from solids the instant waste enters the toilet bowl. A shaped funnel or split bowl routes urine into a front channel that drains to a bottle or tank, while solids drop into a rear bin. This simple separation changes the chemistry inside the toilet. By removing moisture and urea rich liquid, you limit ammonia formation, slow bacterial activity, and keep the solids bin drier. The result is less odor, fewer flies, and easier handling.

Why does separation matter so much in a van or tiny space. Odor mostly rides on moisture. When the solids chamber stays dry, aerobic processes dominate and smells remain faint. Meanwhile, urine can be contained in a sealed bottle or directed to a dedicated reservoir, where dilution or timely emptying prevents strong ammonia buildup. Many setups also add a small 12 volt fan that pulls air through the solids bin and out a vent, further controlling vapor and humidity.

Common components include the splitter insert, a drain fitting, hose, cap or quick connect, a receptacle for liquids, and a solids container or liner. Some kits add a gasketed seat, splash screen, and mounting brackets. Materials vary from molded plastic to stainless hardware and silicone seals. Good design focuses on smooth surfaces that resist buildup and make cleaning simple.

Choosing a urine diversion system for vans, cabins, and tiny homes

Selecting the right system starts with how you use the space. A weekend rig with a small crew can work fine with a bottle based approach, while full time travelers may prefer a fixed tank and quick dump point. Think through the following factors before you buy.

• Fit and geometry. Check bowl size, seat height, and the angle of the diverter. Movement in a vehicle magnifies poor fit. A bowl that keeps liquid in the forward channel under braking and cornering is worth it.
• Drain routing. Look at hose diameter, kink resistance, and access for cleaning. Short, smooth runs with gentle curves are ideal.
• Venting. A low draw fan and a direct vent path from solids to outside air can be the difference between acceptable and great.
• Winter performance. In cold regions, route the urine line inside insulated spaces, add gentle slope, and avoid traps that can freeze.
• Cleaning and service. Choose surfaces that rinse clean and resist odor absorption. The fewer seams the better.
• Disposal plan. If you will empty into toilets or approved dump points, ensure fittings and containers match your routine.

For materials, polypropylene and ABS are common for the diverter body, with silicone gaskets and vinyl or EVA tubing. Look for UV stable plastics if any part sits near a window. For stainless fasteners, use marine grade to resist corrosion.

Installation and maintenance tips for reliable results

A steady install begins with layout. Set seat height for comfort, confirm knee room, and ensure the diverter pitch consistently favors the liquid channel. Secure the unit so it cannot shift on rough roads. Use a clamp or bracket system that spreads load and prevents stress on the bowl or drain fitting. Seal penetrations with butyl or appropriate sealant and keep the vent run short and straight.

Drain management is next. If you use a bottle, choose one with a broad base, clear volume markings, and a positive seal. A quick disconnect with a shutoff valve limits spills during removal. If you plumb to a tank, add a service loop for movement, install a trap or check valve to control vapor, and label the deck fitting clearly to prevent mistakes.

Day to day care is simple with a few habits. Rinse the diverter channel regularly with a mild citric or vinegar solution to keep scale in check. Avoid bleach, which can damage seals and vent fans. For the solids bin, a carbon rich cover material like fine wood shavings or coco coir helps keep the chamber dry. Empty liquids before the bottle is full to reduce ammonia odor. In many regions, urine can be poured into a flush toilet or a designated dump point. Always follow local regulations.

Odor control fundamentals

• Keep liquids and solids separate.
• Maintain steady airflow through the solids bin.
• Clean the diverter channel before mineral deposits form.

Waste handling and disposal basics

• Empty urine frequently and responsibly.
• Tie your workflow to places you already stop, such as fuel stations with restrooms.
• Know regional rules for disposal so you stay compliant.

Hygiene practices that work in tight spaces

• Use gloves for service tasks and store them near the toilet.
• Keep a spray bottle of mild acid cleaner for the diverter.
• Wipe sealing surfaces before reassembly to protect gaskets.

Bringing it together in a purpose built van bathroom

A urine diversion toilet performs best when the rest of the system supports it. That means a rigid mount, smart storage for service items, vent routing that does not fight airflow, and plumbing that respects movement, cold, and maintenance access. If you want a bathroom that feels straightforward on the road, build the enclosure, fan wiring, and tank or bottle access around the diverter from day one.

OZK Customs designs van bathrooms as a complete system so urine diverter kits work smoothly with ventilation, cabinetry, and water storage. See what a refined interior looks like on our Explore recreational vans page, or dive into tailored interiors on Custom build a van. Shopping for a finance friendly platform. Browse Explore mainstream vans to match a base vehicle with the bathroom you want.

Strong execution turns a simple diverter into a clean, low odor, easy to live with solution. When you are ready to map the bathroom into your floor plan, we are here to help.

Ready to plan your build

Tell us how you travel, how often you use the toilet, and where you plan to empty. We will spec venting, routing, and storage around your urine diversion setup so it functions without fuss on day one.

Share your trip profile and must haves, and we will translate that into a complete bathroom design that fits your van and your routines.