Understanding how urine breaks down and how to manage it while traveling If you're using an OGO™ compost toilet in a van, RV, boat, or off-grid cabin, you’ve likely wondered: why does urine start to smell and what can I do about it.
What’s in Human Urine
Fresh urine is about 95% water and 5% solutes, including:
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Urea – a nitrogen-rich compound that breaks down into ammonia
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Salts like sodium and potassium
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Trace organic compounds and waste byproducts
It’s sterile when fresh, but once exposed to air and warmth, urea converts to ammonia, which is what creates that sharp smell.
In Hot or Humid Conditions:
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Urine decomposes faster
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Ammonia builds up quickly
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Bottles may fog or condense internally
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Odor becomes noticeable within hours
OGO™ Tips:
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Empty urine bottles every 12–24 hours
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Use a high-CFM fan for better airflow
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Rinse with Lemi Shine or white vinegar every few days
In Cold or Dry Climates:
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Slower decomposition
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Less odor, but more chance of mineral buildup
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Risk of cap clogging or salt crusting
OGO™ Tips:
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Rinse bottle thoroughly to prevent crystallization
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Keep ventilation running year-round
The Raw Sugar Tip
Some off-grid users swear by this low-tech hack: adding raw sugar to the urine bottle.
Why It Works:
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Feeds neutral bacteria, which outcompete odor-producing microbes
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Slightly lowers pH, slowing ammonia conversion
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Helps “sweeten” the odor profile naturally
How to Use It:
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Add 1–2 teaspoons of raw sugar to an empty urine bottle
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Optional: dilute with a small amount of water
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Shake gently before reinstalling the bottle
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Reapply every few cleanouts
Note: Use raw sugar or molasses, not artificial sweeteners or heavily processed sugar.
Is It Safe for Composting
Yes. Urine treated with raw sugar is:
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Safe for landfill disposal
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Still compostable (especially when diluted)
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Friendly to microbial life in compost systems
Just like vinegar or Lemi Shine, it’s a natural additive that won’t harm your toilet or downstream disposal.
Final Word
Odor control doesn’t have to involve harsh chemicals or constant frustration. By understanding how urine reacts—and trying safe, simple solutions like raw sugar—you can stay odor-free and off-grid without compromise.
OGO™ toilets are built to make waste simple. That includes the smelly stuff.
