From cassette to separation

As interest in alternative toilet systems continues to grow, Thetford presents its latest innovations: the separation toilet (S series) and the separation kit (SK series). Designed to offer motorhome owners greater flexibility, both products are the result of an in-depth, experience-based development process, refined through testing, and geared towards the highest standards of comfort and hygiene.

Thetford has noticed a growing trend within a specific group of recreational vehicle users who are looking for alternative sanitary systems. Although separation toilets were already gaining visibility, particularly thanks to (social) media and events such as the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf, many of these offerings lacked the reliability and performance that the travelling community expected. As market interest matured, so too did the opportunity for Thetford to provide a solution worthy of the quality standards for which it has always been known.

In order to better understand the reasons behind this shift towards alternative sanitary systems, Thetford commissioned independent research from MiiOS in 2024. The study revealed that recreational vehicle users are generally willing to change their

sanitary set-up, especially when certain alternative systems are perceived as more environmentally friendly and easier to empty.

However, although sustainability plays an important role, the decisive factors in product choice are hygiene and comfort. These key factors helped lay the foundations for the new Thetford S and SK series.

 

To translate these needs into real, high-quality products, Thetford formed a cross-functional development team, bringing together expertise in market research, engineering, product management, chemical development, quality management and more. This team contributed over 100 years of combined experience and followed the project through every stage: from market analysis to prototyping, testing, refinement and production. ƒLaunching.a.completely.new.product.in.less.than.two.years..from.initial.concept.to.production-ready.version..for.both.the.European.and.Australian.markets?.is.a.genuine.achievement.and.demonstrates.excellent.teamworkƒ, said Pascal Kuijten, Product Manager RV/OEM.

The first project meetings, competitor analysis and feasibility studies took place in January 2024. It quickly became clear that many existing separation toilets caused ergonomic issues - particularly for female anatomy - and were not sufficiently reliable, especially when it came to the urine tank. These were challenges that Thetford tackled head-on.

 

During development, a patented, watertight valve was implemented for the urine tank; the bowl was redesigned to suit both male and female anatomy; a blade system was integrated to hygienically cover solid waste, and various components were manufactured using recycled plastic, without compromising on durability or hygiene.

The first prototypes were unveiled at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf in August 2024. Over the following months, further prototypes were built, tested and fine-tuned, both in-house and inside real motorhomes. Every component was refined to meet users’ expectations in terms of hygiene, ease of use and reliability, all while staying within the dimensional constraints of the existing C220 and C260 toilets.

With each iteration, the system improved further. An optional active ventilation system was designed, and purpose-made consumables were developed to further enhance the practicality, hygiene and durability of the separation toilet systems. By May 2025, the production facility was ready to go into operation, and the first production tests were carried out.

 

To further enhance the user experience, the Chemical Department developed bespoke consumables for the separation toilets:

• Thetford Separation Toilet Urine Tank Fresh: prevents unpleasant odours and limescale build-up, keeping the urine tank clean and fresh.

• Thetford Separation Toilet Bowl Cleaner: a fast-acting spray that cleans and polishes the bowl in seconds.

• Thetford Separation Toilet Drying Agent: 100% biodegradable wood fibre that absorbs moisture and prevents unpleasant odours.

• Thetford Separation Toilet Waste Bags: sturdy bags made from recycled material, for clean and simple disposal of solid waste.

With the launch of the S and SK series, Thetford reinforces its commitment to practical innovation, the travelling community and the environment. Whether travellers opt for a classic portable toilet, a cassette toilet or a separation toilet, Thetford continues to champion freedom of choice, backed by decades of experience and a shared passion for motorhome life.

 

The S and SK series, along with their dedicated consumables, will be available from September 2025. For further information on Thetford’s sanitary solutions, visit thetford.com.