The best RV toilet for a small bathroom is the SEAFLO SFRTPH-01-01, because it packs a 18.4 inch residential-style seat and an oversized bowl into a 9.5 inch rough-in footprint that fits the tight floor plans most trailers and Class C rigs were built with. Before you buy anything else, though, measure your bathroom. A toilet that misses on setback, height or bolt spacing will cost you a return trip or a cracked base.
Small RV bathrooms are a measurement problem far more than a shopping problem. A typical trailer bath gives you roughly 30 inches of depth, a wall cabinet within reach of the bowl, and a floor flange drilled at whatever rough-in the manufacturer picked years ago. Most toilet returns trace back to one of those three measurements being wrong.
We spent weeks going through the fixed and portable options with real dimensions, comparing seat heights, bowl footprints, tank capacities and mounting styles to find the ones that actually work when space is tight. This guide covers all twelve, plus the measurement checklist we wish every owner had before their first order.
One quick note if your bathroom is being rebuilt from scratch: the sizing logic behind compact RV fixtures is similar to what drives picks in our smart toilet roundup, where clearances around the bowl decide what fits too.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Best RV Toilets for Small Bathrooms (October 2026)
SEAFLO RV Toilet 18.4 in
- 18.4 in residential seat height
- Foot pedal gravity flush
- 9.5 in rough-in with 2-bolt mount
- Soft-close seat and lid
Camco Portable RV Toilet
- 5.3 gallon detachable tank
- 2.5 gallon flush tank with bellows pump
- Compact 14 in wide footprint
- Includes tank treatments
Porta Potti 365
- Piston flush system
- Airtight sealed valve
- Near-standard seat height
- Rotating pour-out spout
All 12 RV Toilets Compared in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| SEAFLO RV Toilet 18.4 in Height |
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Check Latest Price |
 Thetford Aqua Magic Style II Low Profile |
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 Thetford Aqua-Magic Residence High Profile |
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 Dometic 410 Round Porcelain Bowl |
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| Camco Portable RV Toilet 5.3 Gallon |
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 SereneLife Portable Toilet 5.3 Gallon |
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| Thetford Porta Potti 365 |
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 Kohree Camping Toilet 5.3 Gallon |
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 JAXPETY 2.6 Gallon Portable Toilet |
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 VINGLI Portable 5.3 Gallon Camping Toilet |
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Check Latest Price |
 Thetford Porta Potti 135 |
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Check Latest Price |
 Dometic 970 Series Portable 5.0 Gallon |
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Check Latest Price |
How to Measure Your RV Bathroom Before You Buy
Five measurements decide whether a toilet fits. Take all of them, in this order, before you compare models.
Measure the rough-in. Run a tape from the finished bathroom wall to the center of the existing floor flange, not to its edge. The SEAFLO fixed model needs 9.5 inch, and most RV floor flanges sit at 10 inch or 12 inch. This single number eliminates most mismatches.
Measure usable depth from the wall to the opposite obstruction. Cabinet, shower wall or sink will set your ceiling. Note the total depth available, then subtract the bowl depth of any model you are considering.
Measure setback, which is the gap from the wall to the front of the bowl. This is not the rough-in. A compact rear fit such as the 7.625 inch design on the Dometic 410 leaves noticeably more leg room in a shallow bath than an elongated bowl that needs roughly 11 inch of setback.
Check vertical clearance. Measure from the floor to the underside of any cabinet, shelf or overhead obstruction. Anything at or under 20 inch is low-profile territory. Anything over that opens up the high-profile and chair-height models.
Inspect the flange bolt pattern. Look down at the floor flange and note where the hold-down bolts sit. Most current toilets place them at 3 and 9 o’clock, while many older RVs still have them at 5 and 11 o’clock. Measure across the bolt centers too, because flange diameter varies.
If your bathroom is a wet bath with a raised floor, add the step-up height to every seat-height figure you read, because you will effectively be sitting higher than the published number suggests.
1. SEAFLO RV Toilet 18.4 Inch Height – Best Overall for Small Bathrooms
SEAFLO RV Toilet – 18.4″ Residential Height, Gravity Flush Foot Pedal, 4-Year Warranty, Fits Most RVs (9.5″ Rough-In), Soft Close Seat, 2-Bolt Mount, for Camper Travel Trailer Motorhome SFRTPH-01-01
18.4 in residential seat height
9.5 in rough-in
2-bolt floor mount
Polypropylene bowl
Soft-close seat
4-year warranty
Pros
- 18.4 in residential-style seat height is easy on the knees
- Oversized elongated bowl improves usability over compact RV bowls
- Soft-close seat and lid quiet the ride
- Foot pedal gravity flush gives hands-free water control
- 2-bolt mount on a standard 9.5 in rough-in
- 4-year limited warranty
Cons
- Floor flange is sold separately
- Plastic bowl feels lighter than a porcelain unit
- Needs an exact 9.5 in rough-in
This is the unit we keep coming back to for tight rigs. The 18.4 inch seat height puts it close to a residential toilet, which matters enormously when you are trying to sit down in a bath with 30 inches of depth and no room to swing your knees.
It is also factory-installed equipment on Forest River, Jayco, Grand Design and Winnebago rigs, so the 9.5 inch rough-in is not an unusual ask. That means in a lot of trailers the existing flange is already close to spec and the swap is straightforward.
The bowl is oversized for an RV toilet and the tri-directional gravity jets cover it well, which is where most plastic RV bowls fall short. The seat and lid close softly, so the bowl stops slamming while the trailer is moving.
Why it fits tight bathrooms
The unit is 15.27 inch wide and 11.71 inch deep, so it tucks against the wall without stealing depth from the walkway. In a bath where a cabinet already overhangs the bowl zone, that shallow depth matters more than any feature list.
Because it uses a standard 2-bolt mount at 9.5 inch, owners upgrading an existing plastic bowl frequently find the bolts line up without any flange work.
Where it falls short
The polypropylene bowl is lighter and less rigid than a porcelain china bowl, so it flexes slightly more when you sit down. It is also 18.4 inch tall, which will not clear a low cabinet or a pop-up with very shallow overhead space.
Budget for a separate floor flange if your rig does not already have a serviceable one, and confirm your rough-in before ordering.
2. Thetford Aqua Magic Style II – Best Low Profile Pick
Aqua Magic Style II RV Toilet / Low Profile / White – Thetford 42059
Porcelain china bowl
14 in low-profile height
20 in deep by 15 in wide
Single-pedal flush
15.42 kg
Pros
- Full porcelain china bowl is easy to keep sanitary
- Low-profile 14 in height suits tighter layouts
- Single-pedal flush is simple and hands-free
- Flush valve wipes the bowl clean each flush
- 20 percent lighter than Style Lite models
- Designed as a direct replacement for most permanently installed RV toilets
Cons
- Porcelain body is heavy to handle in a cramped bath
- Fixed install needs plumbing hookup
- 4.4 star average trails several plastic models
When the ceiling is the problem rather than the floor, low-profile is the only answer. The Style II tops out at 14 inch, and owners who could not fit anything else in an older trailer report it sliding into place without cabinet modification.
This is one of the few RV toilets here with a genuine china bowl, and reviewers consistently notice the difference in cleaning. Porcelain does not hold stains the way polypropylene does, and a wiped-clean bowl also means fewer odor complaints.
That does not make it the heaviest consideration in a small bath. At 15.42 kg this is a two-person lift in a space where you are likely kneeling on the floor, and that is worth planning for before the box arrives.
Why it works in a shallow bath
The 20 inch depth and 15 inch width sit inside the footprint most older trailers were built around, and the single-pedal flush means you are not balancing while you try to reach two controls.
Because it is designed as a drop-in replacement for most permanently installed RV toilets, the plumbing connections tend to match without an adapter.
Where it falls short
A 4.4 star average from a much smaller review base tells you less than the star figure alone suggests, and buyers most often cite weight rather than function as the drawback.
It is also permanently plumbed in, so unlike the portable options in this list you cannot remove it for storage or take it to a different campsite.
3. Thetford Aqua-Magic Residence – Best for a Higher Seat
Aqua-Magic Residence RV toilet / High Profile / White – Thetford 42169
High-profile residential seat
15.75 in overall height
11.8 lb body
Single-pedal half or full flush
Antimicrobial seat
Pros
- Accepts a standard bolt-on toilet seat for cheap replacement
- Half press adds water and full press flushes
- High-profile seat helps with sit and stand
- Antimicrobial seat inhibits odor-causing bacteria
- Lightweight 11.8 lb polypropylene body
- Optional hand sprayer for a rinse
Cons
- Pedal sits in a tight spot
- All-plastic base can feel slightly wobbly
- Pedal linkage pin can break after about a year
- Warranty service routed through a dealer
This is the pick for anyone whose real problem is getting off the floor. The high-profile residential seat is noticeably easier to use for anyone with knee or hip trouble, and multiple owners describe the change as the comfort difference they wish they had made sooner.
At 11.8 lb it is also the easiest fixed toilet here to handle, which matters when the install happens in a bath you can barely kneel in. Several reviewers report completing the whole swap in around 20 minutes.
Two design choices stand out for long-term ownership. It accepts a standard bolt-on seat, so replacing a cracked seat costs pocket change instead of a special-order part, and the straight tube under the flush valve is easy to scrub and resists collecting debris.
Why it works in a small bath
The body is 20.5 inch deep and 19.63 inch wide, which is wide for an RV toilet, so it suits baths with a wide wall and less well for the narrowest closets. Check width before you commit if a cabinet runs along the side.
The half-press and full-press pedal gives you a quick rinse or a full flush from one control, which is genuinely useful when fresh water is short.
Where it falls short
Because the pedal has to sit under your foot, in a very tight bath it is positioned where it is easy to trip over or kick. The plastic pin linking the pedal to the waste ball is also a recurring failure point after roughly a year of use.
Warranty claims run through a dealer rather than direct support, so expect an extra step if something goes wrong.
4. Dometic 410 Round Porcelain – Best Rear Clearance
Dometic Model 410 Complete RV Toilet – Round Porcelain Bowl, Universal Fit & 2-Bolt Mount, 18″ Chair Height Residential-Style, Gravity Flush Toilet with Soft-Close Seat, White (9610008259)
Round porcelain bowl
18 in chair-height seat
7.625 in rear fit
Universal 2-bolt mount
27 lb
Pros
- Porcelain bowl resists stains and odors and is tested to 10000 flushes
- 7.625 in rear fit is a real space saver
- Universal 2-bolt mount fits Dometic or competing bowls
- 18 in chair-height seat with soft-close lid
- Rimless 360 degree flush uses less water
- No-tool parts simplify roadside seal changes
Cons
- 27 lb is heavy to maneuver in a tight install space
- Fixed install needs existing RV plumbing
- Costs more than the plastic and portable models here
This is the model that solves the complaint we hear most from small-bathroom owners, which is that the bowl sits too close to the back wall. The 7.625 inch rear fit moves you forward and creates real leg room without needing a longer bathroom.
The round bowl is the reason it fits where an elongated bowl will not. Owners replacing a 320-series unit frequently point to the rear footprint as the feature that finally made the install work in their trailer.
Porcelain is the bigger story for anyone tired of odor. The bowl is tested for 10000 flushes, and reviewers upgrading from plastic describe the cleaning difference as the most noticeable change in the whole bathroom.
Why it works in a shallow bath
The universal 2-bolt mount means it will replace a Dometic or a competing fixed toilet, which removes the brand-matching guesswork. Seat height is 18 inch, so it is a comfortable chair-height position rather than a crouch.
Its overall depth of 17.63 inch keeps the front edge from crowding the doorway in a bath with a swing door.
Where it falls short
At 27 lb this is a genuinely heavy object to lift into a cramped corner, and you should plan a second pair of hands. It is permanently plumbed in, so it cannot be removed for storage.
It also sits at the higher end of the cost range among the fixed models in this guide, so pair the price check with a flange check before ordering.
5. Camco 5.3 Gallon Portable – Best Value
Camco Portable RV Toilet with Detachable Tank, Gray, 5.3 Gallon, 41541
5.3 gallon detachable tank
2.5 gallon flush tank with bellows pump
14 in wide
11.5 lb
Rated to 330 lb
Pros
- Detachable 5.3 gallon tank empties and rinses straightforwardly
- Sealing slide valve locks in odor when closed
- Bellows pump rinses the bowl cleanly
- Compact 14 in wide footprint suits tight floor plans
- Built-in carry handle at 11.5 lb
- Includes three drop-in tank treatments
Cons
- Cleaning after emptying takes several rinse cycles
- Not intended for toilet paper or wipes
- Bellows pump can wear if bumped in storage
- Can tip if not set on a level surface
With thousands of reviews behind it and the largest review base in this group, the Camco is the safest portable pick for anyone who does not want to cut a flange. You set it down, you use it, you carry it outside and you empty it.
The 14 inch width is narrow enough to sit in a corner of a small bath or a converted van without stealing usable floor, and at 11.5 lb with a built-in handle it moves easily between a bench and a shower.
Odor control is the reason most buyers stay with it. The sealing slide valve holds when the lid is down, and the three included drop-in treatments genuinely break down waste rather than only masking it. A 2.6 gallon version also exists if capacity is not the priority.
Why it works in a tight bath
Nothing needs to be plumbed, drilled or measured against a flange. That makes it the low-risk answer for a pop-up, a rental or a bathroom you are still rebuilding.
The detachable tank separates from the bowl, so the whole thing collapses for storage between trips.
Where it falls short
Cleaning is the honest drawback. Owners consistently report needing two or more rinse cycles after emptying, and toilet paper must be bagged and disposed of separately rather than going down the bowl.
It also tips if the surface is not level, and the bellows pump can be damaged if the unit is knocked while stowed under a bench.
6. SereneLife 5.3 Gallon – Best for Multi-Day Trips
SereneLife Portable Toilet 5.3 Gal Camping Travel Outdoor Flush Toilet Seat
5.3 gallon waste tank
3.2 gallon water tank with 80 plus flushes
Full-size seat
Push-button flush
Carry bag included
Pros
- Full-size seat is more comfortable than bucket-style camp toilets
- 3.2 gallon water tank gives 80 plus flushes
- Double-sealed drain valve contains odor reliably
- Rotating no-splash pour spout makes emptying clean
- Push-button flush needs no power or plumbing
- Seat and upper tank separate from the tote for cleaning
Cons
- Residual water is hard to fully drain from the tank
- Seat can feel flimsy for heavier users
- Hand flush pump retaining clip can break if pulled hard
- Tank deodorizer drops needed for multi-day odor control
- Tank gets noticeably heavy when full
The differentiator here is flush count. A 3.2 gallon water tank delivers 80 or more flushes before a refill, which in practical terms means you fill the fresh side once at the start of a normal weekend rather than topping it up constantly.
The full-size seat is also far more comfortable than the squat-height designs that dominate the portable category, and many owners use this as a second bathroom at home rather than only in a vehicle.
Emptying is cleaner than most rivals thanks to the rotating no-splash pour spout, and the included carry bag makes packing it away simple. The double-sealed drain valve is the part that keeps a portable toilet from announcing itself.
Why it works in a small bath
At 16.3 inch deep by 14.4 inch wide it clears a narrow corner without taking over the space, and there is no plumbing or electrical hookup to arrange. That makes it easy to test whether a portable approach works for you before committing.
The upper assembly separates from the tote, so washing happens at a sink rather than in the shower stall.
Where it falls short
The most repeated complaint is leftover water. The gasket rim and non-flat pour tube make it hard to get every last drop out, which makes cleanup slower than it should be.
For longer trips you will need holding tank deodorizer drops, and the tank itself becomes heavy to carry once it is near full.
7. Thetford Porta Potti 365 – Best Rated Portable
Porta Potti Thetford Porta Potti 365 Portable Toilet (for RV, Marine, Camping, Vans, Trucks, Healthcare) 92820, White
Piston flush system
Airtight sealed valve
16.8 in deep by 15 in wide
8.8 lb
Removable seat and cover
Pros
- Highest average rating in this group at 4.7 stars
- Seat height close to a standard toilet is easier on the knees
- Sealed valve holds odor over multi-day trips and long drives
- Piston flush gives a strong bowl rinse
- Removable seat and cover clean thoroughly
- Rotating pour-out spout empties into any regular toilet
- Deeper bowl leaves less residual water
Cons
- Heavy to lift when the cassette is at capacity
- Vigorous pumping can push water under the seat
- Fresh water capacity gives fewer flushes than some newer rivals
- Needs tank treatment to fully control smell
This carries the highest average rating in the group and the reasons are concrete rather than marketing. The seat height is close to a standard toilet, the piston flush is stronger than the bellows pumps most competitors use, and the bowl is deeper so less water is left behind.
Van and truck owners rate it well over long stretches, and the sealed valve continues to hold odor through long drives home, which is where most portable toilets give themselves away.
The removable seat and cover mean you can clean the upper assembly properly rather than swishing water around a fixed bowl. Emptying goes into any regular toilet through the rotating pour-out spout, so it works at campground hookups and rest stops alike.
Why it works in a small bath
At 16.8 inch deep by 15 inch wide and 16.3 inch tall, it reads like a real toilet rather than a bucket, which changes how usable a small bathroom feels. At 8.8 lb empty it is light enough to move with one hand.
It suits a bathroom where a wet bath is not an option, or a small space you want to keep clear for storage.
Where it falls short
Lifting the full cassette is the real drawback, and it gets heavier the longer you go between empties. Pumping too vigorously can push water under the seat area.
The fixed fresh water capacity means fewer flushes than newer rivals with larger top tanks, so budget for treatment drops if you are away for more than a few days.
8. Kohree 5.3 Gallon – Best for Heavier Users
Kohree Camping Toilet Portable 5.3 Gallon, 20L Porta Potty for Adults
5.3 gallon waste tank
2.64 gallon water tank
13 in elongated diagonal seat
Rated to 440 lb
13 lb
Pros
- 13 in elongated diagonal bowl feels close to a standard home seat
- Completely sealed tank with no odor reported when closed
- 2.64 gallon water tank gives roughly 40 to 90 flushes
- Rated to 440 lb and feels sturdy in use
- Swiveling dump pipe empties at a hookup or toilet
- Level indicator shows fill
- Operates from -4F to 122F
Cons
- Bellows pump handle is stiff and takes effort to pull
- Top lid could be more rigid
- Included water gun sprayer has weak suction
- Vent the tank before flushing or it splashes back
- Heavy when full so many empty at half capacity
Most portable camping toilets are built for a smaller user. This one is rated to 440 lb, and reviewers at higher weights describe it as genuinely sturdy rather than borderline, which is the single reason it earns a place in a roundup about bathrooms.
The diagonal elongated seat is the other differentiator. At 13 inch it is the closest thing in this list to a home toilet seat, and it removes the squat sensation that makes people avoid portable units.
The swiveling dump pipe and the level indicator are small touches that make week-long trips far easier to manage, because you know how full the tank is and you can empty it without wrestling with a fixed spout.
Why it works in a small bath
It assembles and disassembles quickly and carries a handle, so it can live in a cabinet or under a bench in a van conversion and come out only when needed. No plumbing or power connection is required.
The stated -4F to 122F operating range makes it a reasonable four-season option for campers who do not want to winterize a bowl.
Where it falls short
The stiff bellows handle takes real effort, and the included water gun sprayer has weak suction, so do not plan on it for cleaning. The top lid could also be more rigid than it is.
Vent the cassette before flushing or water will splash back, and remember that a full tank is heavy enough that many owners empty at half capacity.
9. JAXPETY 2.6 Gallon – Budget Pick for Backup Use
JAXPETY 2.6 Gallon Outdoor Portable Toilet for RV Travel, Camping, Boating & Car, Leak-Proof Cassette Toilet, Grey
2.6 gallon waste tank
3.2 gallon fresh water tank
12 in tall for storage
9.9 lb
220 lb load limit
Pros
- Smallest footprint in this group at 12 in tall
- Pin-release cassette empties quickly and disassembles simply
- 13.7 in by 13.3 in seat is larger than most compact portables
- Light at 9.9 lb and easy to load into a car
- Battery-free pressurized circular flush nozzle
- Fast and responsive seller support
Cons
- 4.3 star average with repeated leak reports
- Bowl-to-cassette seal can leak at the valve neck
- Pump section has been reported to leak when overfilled
- Flush nozzle only rinses part of the basin
- 12 in seat height is low for taller adults
- 220 lb load limit is the lowest here
At 12 inch tall this is the smallest unit we looked at, and that is the whole point. It disappears under a bench, in a closet or behind a seat in a small pop-up, which means a bathroom you barely use can still have a toilet in it.
The pin-release cassette empties faster than most designs of this size, and at 9.9 lb it is easy to move between a car and a campsite, which suits the emergency-backup role most owners buy it for.
The 2.6 gallon waste capacity is small, so this is a short-trip and backup tool rather than a full-time arrangement. The 13.7 inch by 13.3 inch seat is larger than most units in its class, which helps for longer than the height would suggest.
Why it works in a small bath
Storage footprint is the deciding factor. If your bathroom is 30 inches deep with a fixed toilet removed or supplemented, a 12 inch tall unit can live behind the shower surround without taking floor space.
It needs no power, no plumbing and no chemicals to flush, so it works as a backup in a rental or a rig you do not own outright.
Where it falls short
Leak reports at the bowl-to-cassette seal are the reason the average sits at 4.3 rather than 4.6, and the pump section has also been reported leaking when overfilled in transit. Treat the tank as full at two-thirds.
The circular nozzle only rinses part of the basin, the 220 lb load limit is the lowest here, and the 12 inch seat height is genuinely uncomfortable for a taller adult.
10. VINGLI 5.3 Gallon – Best for Boondocking
VINGLI Portable 5.3 Gallon Camping Toilet w/Carrying Bag,Large Capacity Tank for Camping,Boat/Truck
5.3 gallon detachable tank
Piston flush pump
Rotating pour-out spout
8 lb
Free-standing
Pros
- Piston flush cleans the bowl in one firm push
- Rotating pour-out spout makes emptying clean and less messy
- Air-tight flush gate seal gives strong odor control
- Detachable tank carries like a suitcase when full
- Included carry bag simplifies packing
- Comfortable for a taller heavier user despite the compact size
- Works as a boondocking replacement for a built-in black tank
Cons
- Design does not look like a standard toilet
- 16.5 in assembled height is low for taller users
- Drain spout is not a standard 3 in hose size and has no tabs
- Needs tank treatment to control odor as it fills
- Empty the tank near three-quarters full or the spout may drip
Boondockers tend to hate hauling a fixed black tank around, and this unit is built for that. The 5.3 gallon detachable tank lifts out and carries like a suitcase, so you can dump at a station or a flush toilet instead of driving your waste home.
The piston flush is the detail that separates it from most of the portable field. One firm push rinses the bowl, where bellows designs often take three or four strokes and still leave residue.
The air-tight flush gate seal holds odor well with the gate closed, which is what makes it viable as a longer-term boondocking arrangement rather than a weekend accessory. Owners report it stays comfortable for a taller, heavier user despite the compact size.
Why it works away from hookups
It is free-standing, so no plumbing or power is involved and you can place it wherever the bathroom has room, including a wet bath corner or a converted van.
At 8 lb empty it is one of the lightest 5.3 gallon tanks here, which matters when the tank is full.
Where it falls short
The 16.5 inch assembled height is low, and the shape reads more like a camping fixture than a household toilet, which some buyers find off-putting in a finished bathroom.
The drain spout is not a standard 3 inch black water hose size and has no tabs to hold a hose, so plan your dumping method. Empty around three-quarters full or expect drips, and add tank treatment to control odor between dumps.
11. Thetford Porta Potti 135 – Smallest Footprint
Porta Potti Thetford 92860 Porta Potti 135 , White
2.6 gallon waste tank
2.6 gallon fresh water tank
12.13 in tall
Only 8 lb
3-year warranty
Pros
- One of the smallest footprints here at 12 in tall
- Stows under a dinette bench or shelf
- Only 8 lb so it can be carried to a public restroom
- Removable seat and cover clean easily
- Sealed valve and snapping lid contain odor
- Under 3 gallons so one person can lift it
- 3-year warranty is the longest covered here
Cons
- Low seat height is awkward for taller adults and mobility limits
- Bellows flush is weak and needs a water bottle
- No visible fresh water level indicator
- Instructions and parts descriptions are unclear
- Cleaning the chamber means flushing the system
This is the pick when the only real requirement is that the bathroom still has a toilet in it. At 12.13 inch tall and 8 lb, owners store it under a dinette bench or a shelf and bring it out when needed, which keeps a small bath free of a permanent fixture.
The 8 lb weight is the underrated benefit. You can carry it into a normal restroom to empty it rather than hauling a waste tank around, which removes the awkward part of portable toilet ownership for many people.
It is also reported to stay leak-free even when flipped upside down on rough roads, which is reassuring if it lives in the back of a truck bed. The 3-year warranty is the longest of any model in this guide.
Why it works in the tightest bath
Where the bigger portables measure 16 to 17 inch tall, this one is 12 inch. That is the difference between a toilet that occupies your bathroom and one that disappears into it.
Both tanks are under 3 gallons, so the whole assembly stays light enough for one person to lift even when it needs emptying.
Where it falls short
The bellows flush is weak and several buyers keep a water bottle for a manual rinse. There is no fresh water level indicator, so you are guessing what is left in the top tank.
The 12 inch seat height is uncomfortable for taller adults and for anyone with limited mobility, and cleaning the collection chamber means running the flush system, which is awkward on the road. Instructions are also poorly translated.
12. Dometic 970 Series Portable 5.0 Gallon – Best for Pop-Ups
Dometic 301097606 Portable Toilet 5.0 Gallon, Gray
5.0 gallon holding tank
13 in deep by 15.25 in wide
Prismatic level indicator
Push-button flush
2-year warranty
Pros
- Compact 13 in by 15.25 in footprint fits pop-ups and vans
- Push-button flush clears the bowl instantly
- Prismatic level indicator shows how full the tank is
- Spout emptying is fast and mess-free
- Sealed unit stays odor free when closed
- Lighter and less costly than a permanent on-board toilet
Cons
- Seat is smaller than heavier buyers expect
- Loud groaning sound from the hand pump
- Rubber bowl seal can fail and is not sold as a spare
- Some units ship without the floor mounting brackets
- Top tank can leak if tipped in a vehicle
Pop-up campers are the hardest bathrooms to fit anything into, and the 13 inch depth on this unit is one of the reasons it works there. It is also a sensible add-on for a van conversion where a permanent cut-out in the floor is not worth the effort.
The prismatic tank level indicator is genuinely useful in a portable, because you cannot see through the tank. Owners say it removes the guesswork from knowing when to empty.
The push-button flush clears the bowl quickly for a unit in this class, and many buyers report theirs working reliably for years. When closed, the sealed unit does not smell, which is what makes it viable inside a living space.
Why it works in a pop-up
Pop-up bathrooms are usually wet baths with a shower surround and very little floor area. This unit measures 13 inch deep by 15.25 inch wide and needs no drain hookup, so it fits where a fixed toilet physically cannot be plumbed.
The latching lid keeps it secure when the trailer is folded, and the 2-year warranty covers a normal season of use.
Where it falls short
The seat is smaller than expected, and several heavier buyers found it tight. The hand pump is also loud, which is more noticeable in a small enclosed bath.
The main long-term issue is the rubber bowl seal, which can fail over time and let odor escape, and Dometic reportedly does not sell it as a replacement part. Check the box for mounting brackets, since some units arrive without them.
RV Toilet Types Explained: Gravity, Cassette, Dry and Portable
Understanding which type you are buying makes every other spec easier to read.
Gravity flush (marine style). A pedal adds water to the bowl, then opens a waste valve and gravity moves waste into a black tank below. It uses more water but needs no electricity, which is why most fixed RV toilets work in dry campsites.
Macerator. A small macerator pump grinds waste and pumps it into the tank, so the bowl can sit almost anywhere. It is common on Class C and motorhome rigs with raised floors, but it adds a pump that can fail.
Vacuum flush. Uses a vacuum line to pull waste into a central tank, shared across the vehicle. More plumbing, but the largest holding capacity.
Cassette portable. A removable tank with its own water supply, used both inside an RV and as a standalone unit. Everything in the portable section of this guide is a cassette design.
Composting. Separates liquid and solids into containers, freeing fresh water tank space for boondocking. It requires discipline about what goes in the bowl, and bagged waste disposal rules vary by location.
Dry flush and bucket. Uses no water at all, which maximises boondocking days, and is the smallest option in any bathroom.
If your rebuild is more about layout than hardware, our guide to bathroom exhaust fans for small rooms covers the other half of keeping a cramped bath usable.
RV Toilet Buying Guide: What Actually Matters in a Small Bath
What low profile versus high profile really means
Low profile units top out around 14 to 15 inch and exist for a specific reason: cabinets, overhead lockers and raised floors in older trailers. High-profile and chair-height models run 18 inch and above, and they are far easier on the knees but need vertical clearance you may not have.
Measure the obstruction height before choosing. If you have under 20 inch of clearance, the low-profile options in this list are your realistic candidates.
Porcelain or plastic bowl
Porcelain china is heavier and easier to keep sanitary, and it resists the stains and odors that drive most replacement decisions. Plastic is lighter, which matters when you are installing in a confined space, but it flexes more and holds odor longer. If you can lift the unit with two people, porcelain is the better long-term choice.
Dometic versus Thetford compatibility
You can move between the two major brands in most cases. Both use a 2-bolt floor flange, and universal mounts on newer models accept either. The complication is bolt position: current flanges put hold-downs at 3 and 9 o’clock, while many older RVs still have them at 5 and 11 o’clock, so measure before assuming the bolts will line up.
For the other end of the bathroom, our picks on towel warmers for small bathrooms solve the same space-versus-comfort trade-off.
How much water does an RV toilet use?
Fixed gravity flush models use noticeably more water per flush than a portable cassette, which matters when boondocking. Portables advertise flush counts instead: the SereneLife here delivers 80 or more flushes from a 3.2 gallon tank, and the Kohree claims up to 90 from 2.64 gallons. Bigger numbers mean fewer refill stops.
Can you install a regular residential toilet in an RV?
Usually not, and the reasons are structural. Residential bowls sit at 30 to 32 inch depth with a 12 inch rough-in, an RV flange pattern that rarely matches, and no holding tank or gate valve to move waste. The exceptions are a van conversion with a purpose-built black tank and enough space, or a tiny house on a normal sewer or septic line.
If you are chasing a residential feel rather than a residential fixture, the fixed options in this list are the practical route, and reading about smart toilet features can help you understand which modern touches are worth copying into a remodel.
Installation difficulty
Plastic fixed toilets on an existing 2-bolt flange are the easiest swap and are often reported at around 20 minutes. Universal mounts such as the Dometic 410 add a little more because the rear clearance has to be checked. A porcelain bowl at 27 lb or more is a two-person job in a confined bath. Macerator installs are the most involved because the pump and discharge line have to be routed.
When replacing seals is the smarter repair
If the only complaint is odor and the bowl still flushes, seals are the cheaper and less disruptive fix. Long-time owners consistently recommend resealing before replacing a whole toilet, because a swap means new plumbing connections, a possible flange problem and a heavier object in a space you cannot enlarge.
Winterization and Odor Checklist
Odor is the number one complaint that drives a replacement, and most of it is preventable.
Add holding tank treatment after every trip and before every storage period.
Run the flush valve fully open and leave the bowl dry before closing up a rig for the season.
Winterize the toilet, including the flush valve and water supply line, since freeze damage to the valve is a common and expensive failure.
Check the bowl-to-tank seal and the floor seal annually, and replace them while the unit is still accessible.
On portables, wash the bowl and drain the tank fully before storage so nothing sits sealed and wet.
Humidity drives odor as much as waste does, so keeping air moving through a small bath helps too. Our guide to dehumidifiers for RV living covers that side, and if a blockage does develop, drain augers for clogged toilets handle the black tank side.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best toilet for a small RV bathroom?
The SEAFLO SFRTPH-01-01 is the strongest all-round choice because it pairs a 18.4 inch residential-style seat with a 9.5 inch rough-in and a shallow 11.71 inch depth, so it fits shallow baths without a crouch-height seat. The Thetford Aqua Magic Style II is the pick when vertical clearance, not floor space, is the problem.
What is the best small camper toilet?
For a pop-up or a van conversion, the Dometic 970 Series portable is a strong fit at 13 inch deep by 15.25 inch wide with no plumbing required. For a bathroom that needs a toilet to disappear between trips, the Thetford Porta Potti 135 stows at 12 inch tall and weighs only 8 lb.
Can I replace my RV toilet with a regular toilet?
Rarely. Residential bowls need a 12 inch rough-in, a standard bolt pattern and a full-depth waste connection that an RV floor flange does not provide, and they sit 30 inch or deeper. The exceptions are a van conversion with a purpose-built black tank and a tiny house on a sewer or septic line.
Which RV toilet is better, Dometic or Thetford?
Both brands fit the common 2-bolt floor flange, and newer models use universal mounts, so either can replace the other. Dometic leads on compact rear footprints and porcelain models, while Thetford offers a wider range of portable and low-profile options. Match the bolt position at 3 and 9 o’clock versus the older 5 and 11 o’clock layout before ordering.
Which RV toilet is the most reliable?
Reliability usually tracks brand support and the size of the installed base. Fixed models from Thetford and Dometic have deep parts availability, while among portables the Camco 5.3 gallon and Porta Potti 365 stand out for sealed valves and long-lived seals. For most owners the deciding factor is whether replacement seals are sold separately.
How much water does an RV toilet use?
Fixed gravity flush models use more per flush than a portable cassette, which matters when boondocking. Portables are usually rated by flush count instead: the SereneLife here delivers 80 or more flushes from a 3.2 gallon tank and the Kohree claims up to 90 from 2.64 gallons. A dry or composting unit uses no flush water at all.
How do I measure my RV toilet rough-in?
Measure from the finished bathroom wall to the center of the floor flange, not to its edge. Then check the setback you need from the wall to the front of the bowl, the vertical clearance under any cabinet, and the position of the hold-down bolts, which sit at 3 and 9 o’clock on most current flanges and 5 and 11 o’clock on many older RVs.
Why does my RV toilet smell?
The usual causes are a dried or failed bowl-to-tank seal, a leaking flush valve, an empty black tank with no treatment in it, or a loose floor seal at the flange. Add tank treatment, run the valve fully open and dry the bowl before storage. If a portable unit smells, check that the drain valve is fully closed and that the deodorizer has been used between trips.
Conclusion
After measuring every option against real bathroom constraints, the SEAFLO RV Toilet at 18.4 inch remains the best RV toilet for small bathrooms because it gives residential comfort inside a marine-style footprint that most trailer floor plans can accept. If your ceiling clearance is the real constraint, the Thetford Aqua Magic Style II low profile solves it with a genuine china bowl.
If you would rather not cut a flange at all, the portable half of this list is a complete answer: the Camco for value and dependability, the Porta Potti 365 for the highest rating and best flushing, and the Porta Potti 135 when storage footprint beats everything.
Measure first, buy second. Five minutes with a tape measure will save you the single most common RV toilet mistake, and it costs nothing.