Outhouse Oddities explores outhouse lore, myths, questionable fixes, and practical, better ways to care for your outhouse.
Some outhouse questions come up again and again. One of them is whether toilet paper belongs in the outhouse pit at all.
Toilet Paper Belongs in the Pit
Yes. Toilet paper should go into the outhouse pit.
First, toilet paper is sanitary waste. Once it has been used, the most appropriate place for it is in the pit, not in a garbage can or separate container.
Second, toilet paper can actually support the conditions needed for decomposition. Outhouse waste is naturally rich in nitrogen and phosphorus, but it contains very little carbon. Toilet paper adds a small amount of carbon to the pit, which helps balance the material.
Toilet paper can also create small air spaces within the waste mass. That added structure can support better conditions for composting and breakdown.
The important distinction is this: toilet paper is fine. Wipes, feminine hygiene products, diapers, paper towel, garbage, and other non-toilet paper items should stay out of the pit.
For best results, keep the system simple. Use toilet paper as intended, avoid adding harsh chemicals or unnecessary materials, and use EcoEthic BioSurge to eliminate odour and break down solids.
The bottom line
Toilet paper belongs in the outhouse pit. Everything else does not.