How to Choose the Right RV Toilet (and Which Models Fit Your Needs)

Posted by Dave on Jan 15th 2026

How to Choose the Right RV Toilet (and Which Models Fit Your Needs)

Choosing the right RV toilet isn’t just about brand loyalty — it’s about answering a few key questions most RVers ask before they buy. Does it fit? Is it comfortable? Will it flush well? How about odor control? With so many models on the market, knowing what’s best for your rig and lifestyle makes all the difference.

When considering which brand and model to purchase, it is best to consider which of these categories is most important to you:

  • Fit and Compatibility
  • Comfort
  • Flush Type and Water Efficiency
  • Odor Control and Cleanliness
  • DIY Installation and Maintenance
  • Durability and Long-Term Value
  • Brand Overview

Below is a decision-focused guide with top RV toilet models from Dometic, Thetford, and Lippert tailored to each customer priority.


1. Fit & Compatibility

“Will this toilet fit my RV without complicated modifications?”

The most important measurements are:

  • Rough-in distance (commonly 7-5/8″ or greater)
  • Toilet footprint
  • Clearance in your bathroom

Recommended Models

 

Tip: Always measure rough-in before buying to avoid returns.


2. Comfort & Everyday Use

“Is this comfortable for daily use?”

Seat height, bowl shape, and overall feel matter, especially if you spend a lot of time on the road.

Recommended Models


3. Flush Type & Water Efficiency

“Should I choose gravity or macerator flush?”

  • Gravity flush — simpler, fewer parts, easier repairs
  • Macerator (electric) — powerful flushing, flexible discharge

Gravity (Reliable + Simple):

Macerator / Electric (Power + Flexibility):


4. Odor Control & Cleanliness

“Will this keep smells out of my RV?”

Odor control depends on reliable seals, bowl design, and discharge isolation.

Models With Good Odor Protection:


5. DIY Installation & Maintenance

“Can I fix this myself on the road?”

If you want easy parts access and a simple service path, choose models with widely available replacement parts.

Best DIY-Friendly Models:


6. Durability & Long-Term Value

“Is this toilet built to last?”

Rugged construction, tested weight capacity, and fewer failure points equal long life.

Tough & Reliable Models:


7. Brand Overview (Which to Choose?)

  • Dometic: Innovation with comfort, efficient flush options, strong durability

  • Thetford: Industry-standard parts ecosystem — easiest to repair and maintain

  • Lippert: OEM compatibility and practical designs for everyday use


Final Tips Before You Buy

Measure first — rough-in, width, depth, and clearance
Decide flush type early (gravity vs macerator)
Consider maintenance access — ease of replacing seals and water valves
Pair with compatible parts — seals, gaskets, valves, flush pedals, hoses