5 Best RV Toilet Chemicals for Breaking Down Waste in 2024

Last Updated on April 17, 2023

RV toilets can be a little tricky to deal with. Nobody wants to be stuck in an RV with a clogged toilet. It’s not a good idea to dump your waste anywhere, and you need something to break down the waste, so it doesn’t smell up your RV. You might end up causing more harm than good if you’re not careful.

To minimize environmental impact, you must use the best RV toilet chemicals to break down waste. These treatments will help to break down the solid waste and prevent odor. Their biodegradability and earth safety make them ideal for septic systems. But how do you know which one is right for you?

You can read this article to find out the top RV toilet chemicals and how to make an informed purchasing decision. Then we will discuss how to use them and some other tips to keep your RV smelling fresh.

5 Best RV Toilet Chemicals for Breaking Down Waste You Should Know

RV owners know the key to a happy camping trip is a clean and functioning RV toilet. Not only is it essential for the comfort of you and your family, but it’s also critical for the health of your septic system.

There are a lot of different RV toilet chemicals on the market, so it can be tricky to select one. Here are five of the best RV black tank treatment options:

1. Camco TST Max RV Toilet Treatment

For any RV owner, one of the most important considerations is finding a toilet treatment that will prevent odors and clogs while being gentle on septic systems. Camco TST max RV toilet treatment is one such product.

Key Features:

• Fresh citrus scent and controls unwanted odors
• It helps break down waste in the RV holding tank
• RV and Marine approved, safe for septic tanks
• Ultra-concentrated, no formaldehyde
• No harmful chemicals or fumes
• It prevents build-up and clogging
• Safe for RV plumbing and lasts a long time

No Harsh Chemicals

With Camco’s RV toilet treatment, you can keep your toilet clean and odor-free without using formaldehyde. No harmful chemicals or fumes are present in the ultra-concentrated formula. It’s much safer for both you and your RV. It prevents build-up and clogging, leaving your toilet smelling fresh and clean.

Citrus Scent

Camco TST max solution is a simple and effective way to keep your black-water tank clean. The citrus scent is refreshing, and the treatment helps break down waste and paper, making it easy to flush away. It is also gentle on the environment, so you can feel good about using it without harming the earth.

Cleans Sensors Well

RV and marine toilets are a necessary part of the camping experience but can be tricky to maintain. Camco 41183 treatment is designed to help keep sensors clean for accurate readings and can also be used to eliminate odors from gray water.

This product is safe for septic systems and will not harm plumbing, making it an excellent choice for campers who want to take care of their RV.

Easy to Use

This treatment comes in bags, and you simply add water to the tank when using them. As per the instructions, seal the bag tightly to keep them fresh. You can couple this treatment with a liquid black-tank treatment for increased effectiveness, especially in hot weather. The features of this product are that it is easy to use and very effective in preventing bad smells.

Last for a Long

Enjoy your next adventure with Camco RV toilet treatment. You can focus on enjoying the outdoors while the granules mask odors.

Because you only need a fraction of what’s in the pouch, it lasts much longer. It’s a great way to explore your outdoor passion. An adventure can lead to beautiful memories.

Limitations:

• Some users may have bad reactions to the pod fumes.
  • To avoid inhaling fumes, use the product in a well-ventilated area. Open the RV windows and doors before you use treatment in the toilet to let the RV air out.

• Due to improper maintenance, the outer plastic sheath may crumble after a few months.
  • Avoid deteriorating the plastic by storing it in a cool, dry place when not in use.

Verdict:

If you are looking for an RV toilet treatment that is safe to use and will not harm your septic system, Camco TST max 41183 treatment is a great choice. Citrus scents are refreshing, and the ultra-concentrated formula will help prevent clogs and build-up.

2. Unique RV Drop in Toilet Treatment

If you’re an RVer, then you know that one of the most important things to keep in mind is your toilet. After all, nobody wants to deal with a clogged or stinky RV toilet. This is where this unique RV drop in toilet treatment comes in.

Key Features:

• A trusted treatment developed by full-time RVers
• Breaks down sludge and eliminates odors
• It prevents clogs and waste buildup
• Dissolves solid waste and toilet paper
• Complies with all state dumping laws
• Biodegradable and safe for the environment
• Deodorizes with a natural bacteria

Trusted Treatment

Developed by full-time RVers, this trusted treatment helps to clean and remove solid waste, toilet paper, and other debris before it can cling to sensor probes and cause misreads. Not only does it keep your RV toilet clean and functioning correctly, but it’s also California compliant.

Powerful Chemical

This powerful chemical breaks down waste and eliminates odors, making it a safe and effective solution for all types of RV toilets. It is also biodegradable so that it won’t harm the environment. And because it is safe for black and grey water tanks, it is perfect for those who want to use their RV without worry.

Digests Residual Sludge

This rv black tank treatment liquefies human waste and all brands of toilet paper, so there’s no need to pre-treat your waste before flushing. It also digests residual sludge from years of build-up, so you don’t have to worry about it clogging up your tank. Plus, it works in all tanks, so you can use it regardless of your tank type.

95% Success Rate

Unique Digest-It toilet treatment is a convenient, easy-to-use product that comes in a pump top dispenser bottle. It is ideal for small to medium-sized RVs and has a 95% success rate. One bottle of the product should last for multiple uses. The product is also non-toxic and sustainable.

Can Deodorize

Using a natural bacteria culture, this RV toilet treatment breaks down waste and eliminates unwanted odors. It does not require a professional tank cleaner and is safe for septic systems.

Besides liquifying black tank solid waste, it also deodorizes. Unlike traditional RV toilet paper treatments, this product contains no harmful chemicals.

Limitations:

• It may take some time for the tank sensors to be restored.
  • Before flushing your RV toilet, add the recommended amount of the product and let it sit overnight. This will give the product time to break down the waste and restore the sensors.

• Unique RV toilet treatment may attract bugs if you do not follow the instructions on the bottle.
  • It is never a good idea to leave too much Digest-It RV toilet treatment in your black tank or gray tank. Just add the recommended amount and let it do its job.

Verdict:

This Unique drop-in treatment is a safe and effective solution whenever you need to break down waste in your RV toilet. It uses a powerful chemical to liquefy waste and eliminate odors and has a 95% success rate. Plus, it is biodegradable and California compliant.

3. Happy Campers RV Holding Tank Treatment

Having a toilet that is easy to use and maintain without any unpleasant surprises is crucial. RVers love the Happy Campers toilet treatment because it makes their toilets feel fresh and clean.

Key Features:

• The lemon scent is refreshing and pleasant
• Eliminates odors in the RV holding tank
• Works in extreme hot and cold temperatures
• Liquifies solid waste and most ordinary household toilet paper
• Reduces odors by up to 75%
• Just add one scoop per 40 gallons of capacity
• Easy-to-use powder formula for modern RVs

Lemon Scent

The Happy Campers RV holding tank treatment is a powerful and effective way to keep your tank clean and odor-free. Its lemon scent is refreshing and pleasant, and it helps to reduce odors by up to 75%.

This treatment is easy to use, leaving your tank smelling wonderful. You can enjoy your next camping trip without worrying about unpleasant odors.

Safe for All Tanks

In an RV, this treatment is designed to work with black and gray tanks. The product is a powder that must be diluted in water before use. It does not damage septic tanks or holding tanks.

To prevent odors and break down waste, it is designed in this way. The treatment is available in various sizes so that it can be used for RVs of all sizes.

Quick Solution

This powerful treatment is formulated to quickly digest waste and eliminate clogs, making it a valuable ally in the fight against RV plumbing problems. They also prevent unpleasant smells from developing in the RV’s black tank, helping to keep your rig smelling new.

Powder Formula for Easy Use

The easy-to-use powder can be added directly to your RV’s holding tank, and it only requires one scoop per 40 gallons of capacity. Unlike traditional tank treatments on the market, the Happy Campers ‎HC-64 does not need to be added regularly, making it a convenient choice for busy campers.

It also works in all temperatures, from below zero to 110+ degrees Fahrenheit, making it an ideal choice for any climate. Your RV will sewer smell crisp and pristine, whether camping in summer or braving a winter storm.

Suitable for Modern RVs

The Happy Campers organic RV treatment is ideal for modern RVs. There is a hose inlet so you can easily clean it and use more water, so you don’t have to go to the dump station as often.

It may take a few cycles before the sensors begin to read correctly, but it will happen. If you want to clean your RV easily and effectively, this treatment is exactly what you need.

Limitations:

• You may damage your black tank sensors if you overuse them at once
  • Before using the product, try using less or following the directions stated on the label. This way, you can still get all the benefits without damaging your sensors.

• If you don’t clean them properly, the chemicals can leave a residue.
  • Make sure to clean chemicals properly according to the instructions. This will help to prevent any residue from being left behind.

Verdict:

The Happy Campers HC-64 treatment is an effective and convenient way to keep your RV’s toilet clean and odor-free. It is easy to use and works in all temperatures, making it an excellent choice for any climate. The treatment is also suitable for modern RVs, with a hose inlet for easy cleaning.

4. ‎Eco Strong Enzyme Cleaner for RV Black Tank

Would you like an eco-friendly and powerful enzyme cleaner for your RV’s black tank? Don’t miss out on Eco Strong. With their unique formula, waste is broken down, and odors are eliminated, all while being gentle on the environment.

Key Features:

• Solid waste digester for black & gray water using bio enzymes
• Cleans sensors, liquefies waste, and removes odors all in one bottle
• Environmentally friendly and biodegradable
• Compatible with all RV toilets and septic systems
• Easy to use with measuring built-in amount bottle
• Long lasting formula means fewer retreats
• Preventative odor control

Eliminates and Prevents odors

If you’re looking for an enzyme cleaner that will quickly and efficiently break down waste, ‎Eco Strong enzyme cleaner for RV black tank is the cleaner for you. 

Not only does it liquefy waste, but it also removes bad smells and cleans sensors. This cleaner works by preventing odors from forming in the first place. The pleasant fragrance also makes the chore less unpleasant.

All Septic Systems Safe

The Eco Strong RV toilet tank solution is an eco-friendly and biodegradable cleaner that is compatible with all RV toilets. This cleaner is safe for all septic systems.

This enzyme cleaner uses a unique blend of enzymes and bacteria to digest waste and prevent clogs. This cleaner is also safe for the planet and will not harm plants or animals.

Long-lasting

The long-lasting formula means you won’t have to retreat your tank as often, and the highly effective enzymes help to dissolve waste and prevent build-up. This product is excellent for long trips in a campervan where the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen are all in one room. It’s easy to use and helpful in keeping things hygienic.

Fast Solution

This product is unique in that it works great in black tanks and gray water tanks. It is simple to use, with a measuring amount built-in bottle, and only requires 1 oz per 40 gallons.

The most convenient part is that it is easy to flush down a regular toilet. As a result, this product is quickly becoming a must-have for any RV owner.

Limitation:

• During hot weather, this enzyme cleaner might not work as well. The bacteria that break down waste in the tank will become more active as the temperature rises so that the enzyme cleaner will go down faster.

• Use it at night or early in the morning when the temperature is cooler. In addition to keeping things clean, it also prevents any bad smells from invading your RV.

Verdict:

This eco-friendly and powerful enzyme cleaner is the right pick for people looking for an enzyme cleaner that is eco-friendly and powerful. As well as being safe for all septic systems, it comes with a measuring bottle for ease of use. Its long-lasting formula means fewer retreats are required.

5. Walex Porta Pak Holding Tank Deodorizer

Walex Porta Pak is a unique product that is designed to provide long-lasting odor control in a portable toilet and holding tank. By combining natural enzymes with bacteria, the product breaks down waste and eliminates odors.

Key Features:

• It contains enzymes and bacteria that break down waste
• The lavender scent is subtle and refreshing
• Pre-measured pouches are easy to use
• Safe for plumbing and septic systems
• It helps keep RV toilets functioning properly
• Biodegradable and environmentally friendly
• No messy liquids offer mess-free use

Lavender and Fresh Scent

The Walex Porta Pak holding tank deodorizer drop ins is an essential item for any RV owner. The lavender scent is subtle, so the RV does not smell like a porta-john when you use this product.

Porta Pak is easy to use, and it is very affordable. Simply drop a deodorizer pod into the RV holding tank, and you will not have to worry about bad smells.

Pre Measured

The Walex Porta-Pak RV toilet freshener is a great way to keep your RV or camper smelling fresh. These pre-measured pouches are easy to use and quickly break down waste without any unpleasant smells.

Porta Pak deodorizer also controls odors by trapping them inside the pouch. You won’t have to worry about unpleasant odors on your camping trip.

No Messy Liquid

The Walex PPRV10LAV comes in packets. This product is mess-free because you don’t have to measure liquid or worry about spilling it. The right combination of packets to use is two for the black tank and one for the gray tank.

This product works by breaking down waste solids and eliminating fumes. It is safe for your plumbing and septic system and is biodegradable.

Good for Toilet Function

Simply add the recommended amount of the solution to your RV holding tank and stir it before use. To ensure that the deodorizer is evenly distributed, flush your system with a minimum of 2 gallons of water. This product also helps to keep your RV toilet functioning properly.

Limitations:

• You may need to use two packets instead of one if the weather is very hot.
  • Clean the tank at night or in the morning when it’s cooler outside if you don’t want to use extra packets.

• Some users find that the scent is not as strong as they would like it to be.
  • Extra pouches can be used to make the fragrance more pungent.

Verdict:

While the Walex Porta Pak PPRV10LAV deodorizer is an excellent product for preventing odors in your RV, it is also beneficial for the overall function of your toilet. This deodorizer is easy to use and affordable and keeps your RV smelling fresh.

These are our picks about the best RV toilet chemicals for treating holding tanks and other waste plumbing systems in RVs. They are all highly effective at breaking down waste and controlling odors. Each of these products will be a great choice if you’re looking for an eco-friendly and robust solution.

Best RV Holding Tank Treatment Comparison Chart:

Product	Treatment Forms	Amount of Treatment	Weight	DimensionsLxWxH
Camco 41183	Pod (powder)	30 Times	1 Pound	4.42 x 5.87 x 4.76 inches
Unique ‎413-AZ	Liquid	16 Times	‎2.31 Pounds	‎3.15 x 3.15 x 9 inches
Happy Campers ‎HC-64	Powder	64  Times	‎3.65 Pounds	7.8 x 5.75 x 5.2 inches
‎Eco Strong Holding Tank Treatment	Liquid	33 Times 1 Oz/40 gal)	‎2.25 Pounds	‎9.13 x 5.24 x 2.4 inches
Walex PPRV10LAV	Pod (powder)	10  Times	‎12 Ounces	2.48 x 7.99 x 9.02 inches

How to Choose the Best RV Toilet Chemicals for Solid Waste?

An RV owner knows how important it is to have a reliable toilet. Keeping your RV toilet clean and odorless can be tough. Various products exist that claim to solve this problem, but deciding which is right for you can be challenging. You should consider the following factors when choosing RV toilet chemicals:

Type of RV Toilet

The most common types of RV toilets are gravity toilets and cassette toilets. Gravity toilets rely on gravity to flush waste away, while cassette toilets use a small holding tank that must be emptied periodically.

Depending on your toilet type, you may need different chemicals. For example, cassette toilets require RV holding tank deodorizers to prevent odors, while gravity toilets may not.

Size of Holding Tank

The size of your tank will directly impact the type and amount of chemicals you need to use. For example, if you have a small tank, you may only need to use a small amount of chemical to achieve the desired results.

You may need to use more chemicals if you have a large tank to break down all of the waste effectively. The type of waste you will be disposing of in your tank should also be considered. You will probably need to use a different chemical to dispose of human waste than animal waste.

No Harsh Chemicals

The most important factor is choosing the right toilet chemicals. Not all products are created equal. Some can damage your plumbing or leave behind toxic residue. These products will break down waste without harming your RV toilet bowl or causing long-term damage to your plumbing.

Be sure to read the labels carefully before making your purchase. Some products may be advertised as “no harmful chemicals” but still contain ingredients that can harm your septic system.

Number of Treatments

The number of tank treatments needed when using RV toilet chemicals depends on several factors, including the amount of waste to be treated, the type of waste, and the temperature.

It is recommended to start with two treatments and increase as needed. This will help to ensure that all the waste is broken down and that there is no material build-up in the tank. It is also important to read the chemical instructions before use and follow all safety precautions.

Suitable for Modern RVs

Some RV toilet chemicals are not compatible with all types of toilets. If you have a modern RV, you may need to use a different type of chemical than someone with an older model. For example, some chemicals may not be compatible with holding tanks with sensors.

These sensors are designed to measure the level of waste in the tank and can be damaged by certain chemicals. If you’re also using formaldehyde-based products in your RV, read the labels carefully to ensure the two products are compatible.

Eliminates and Prevents odors

There are a few key things to look for when determining which RV toilet chemicals will be most effective in breaking down waste and eliminating odors. A powerful enzyme formula will help break down waste quickly and thoroughly. Over time, this will prevent odors from building up.

A good RV toilet chemical should also contain bacteria cultures. These bacteria will consume waste and help to prevent odors from developing in the first place.

Environmental Friendliness

A chemical’s long-term impact should be considered when considering environmental friendliness. For example, some RV toilet chemicals contain bleach or other harmful chemicals that can harm the environment.

Other RV toilet chemicals may use enzymes or other natural ingredients that are more biodegradable and therefore less harmful to the environment.

Safe for All Tanks

When determining if a particular chemical is safe for all tanks, the best place to start is by reading the label. The label should list all the ingredients in the product and any precautions that need to be taken.

If you have any questions about a particular product, it is always best to err on the side of caution and consult with a qualified septic professional before making your purchase.

Prevents Clogs and Success Rate

Consider the success rate and the rating for preventing clogs when choosing which chemical to use. The success rate is the percentage of times the chemical successfully breaks down waste and cleans tank walls. Look for independent testing results or customer reviews to determine the success rate.

The RV toilet chemicals with a high success rate and a high prevent clogs rating are generally more effective at breaking down waste and preventing clogs. The cost of the chemical and the instructions for use must also be considered.

Easy to Use

Some chemicals require that you add a certain amount of water to a tank before adding the chemical, while others come in pre-measured packets that you simply drop into the tank. Some come in liquid form and can be added directly to the tank.

In terms of ease of use, pre-measured packets are generally the easiest to use. Liquids are also easy to use, but you’ll need to be careful to add the correct amount of water to the tank before adding the liquid chemical.

How to Use the RV Holding Tank Treatment?

If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about your RV’s holding tank until it’s time to empty it. And even then, knowing how to go about the process is not always easy. This can be especially true if you’ve never dealt with a black water tank before.

You can follow some simple steps to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible. Here’s a quick guide on how to use an RV holding tank treatment:

1. Add Water to the Tank: The first thing you’ll need to do is add water to the tank. This can be done by attaching a hose to the water spigot at your campsite and running it into the tank. Alternatively, you can fill up a bucket of water and pour it into the tank.

2. Add the RV Holding Tank Treatment: Once the tank is full of water, it’s time to apply the RV holding tank treatment. Most tank treatments are packaged in pre measured packets that you simply drop into the tank. Others come in liquid form and require you to add a certain quantity of water before adding the chemical.

3. Allow the Treatment to Work: Once the treatment has been added to the tank, it’s essential to allow it to work its magic. This means not using the RV for at least six hours. This will give the chemicals time to break down the waste in the tank.

4. Empty the Tank: When the treatment is finalized, it’s time to empty the tank. A hose can be attached to your RV’s dump valve and run it into a sewer connection at your campsite. If there isn’t a sewer connection available, you can empty the tank into an approved dump station.

5. Repeat as Necessary: It’s essential to treat your RV’s holding tank regularly, even if you’re not using it frequently. This will help prevent odors and ensure the tank is functioning correctly.

How to Get Rid of Toilet Paper in an RV Tank?

While it’s essential to use toilet paper when camping, it’s also important to know how to get rid of it properly. This is because toilet paper can clog your RV’s holding tank if it’s not disposed of correctly. There are two common ways you can get rid of toilet paper in an RV tank:

1. Use a Treatment: One of the easiest ways to eliminate RV toilet paper is to use an RV holding tank treatment that contains enzymes. These enzymes break down the toilet paper and prevent it from clogging the tank.

2. Use a Boiling Water Method: If you don’t have an RV  holding tank treatment with enzymes, you can use a boiling water method to break down the toilet paper. Simply bring a pot of water to a boil and pour it into the tank. Allow the water to sit for an hour before draining it out.

How to Clear a Clogged Camper Toilet?

If everything were just right, your camper toilet would never get clogged. But sometimes things happen, and toilets get blocked. If this happens to you, don’t panic. You can follow a few simple steps to clear a clogged camper toilet.

1. Shut Off the Water Supply: First, you’ll need to shut off the water supply to your RV. This will prevent more water from entering the tank and worsen the clog. Plus, it’ll give you time to work on fixing the issue without having to worry about making a mess.

2. Add a Clearing Agent: Once the water supply is shut off, you can add a clearing agent to the toilet. This will help break down the clog and make removing it easier. In most cases, you can simply pour a cup of toilet cleaning solutions into the toilet and let it sit for an hour.

3. Use a Plunger: After the clearing agent has had time to work, it’s time to use a plunger. Plunging the toilet will help to dislodge the clog and get things moving again.

4. Use a Drain Snake: If the plunger doesn’t do the trick, you may need to use a drain snake. This is a long, flexible piece of metal that you insert into the toilet to break up the clog.

5. Call a Professional: If you’ve tried all of the above methods and still can’t get the toilet unclogged, it’s time to call a professional. A plumber can clear the clog and get your toilet working quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are a few questions that are commonly asked about RV holding tanks. Here are some of the most one:

Conclusion

For a comfortable RV experience, you need to maintain your RV toilet properly. Keeping one of those chemicals from our list of the best RV toilet chemicals for breaking down waste will make your life much easier.

They all offer different features that can make your life easier, including odor control and extended RV holding tank life. You’ll be glad you invested in keeping your RV toilet clean and functional, regardless of which one you choose.

Be sure to follow each step we’ve outlined for you, and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask a professional. If you think anyone else might benefit from reading this article, please share it with them.