How to set up Cuddy, your Portable Compost Toilet

Welcome to the world of sustainable sanitation! If you're reading this, chances are you've taken a step towards a greener lifestyle by investing in a Cuddy composting toilet. We're excited to guide you through the unboxing and setup process of your new 2024 Cuddy.

Let's dive in and get your Cuddy up and running! 

Step 1: Unboxing Your Cuddy

• Carefully remove your Cuddy from its box and remove all the tape and packaging.
• Open the lid to reveal the solids bin, the urine bottle, and the mystery bag of accessories.
• Check the solids bin for the carbon filter and the accessory bag.
• Make sure there's no tape on the plates securing them during transport.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools

Before proceeding with the setup, you'll need a few tools and materials:

• A 9-volt battery
• A Phillips #2 screwdriver
• A block of coco coir (or any substrate of your choice). Read more about which compost medium is the best.

Step 3: Check the Accessories

Inside the mystery accessory bag, you'll find:

• A vent plug for external venting (popular in Australia).
• A fly screen for insect protection (important if venting externally).
• A power cable that stretches for convenient installation.
• A solid bottle cap to secure your urine bottle during transport.
• And, of course, the fun googly eyes to personalize your Cuddy!

Step 4: Install the Vent Plug (Optional)

If you're planning to vent Cuddy externally, take the vent plug and attach it to the back of Cuddy. This plug can be used to seal the vent when you're on the move, ensuring no odors escape during travel.

Step 5: Connect the Power Cable

The power cable for the 2024 Cuddy has been upgraded to a stretchy version for easier installation. Simply wire the cable to your van’s battery, ensuring you use a low-amp fuse (around 1 amp). Cuddy requires just 0.1 Watts of power, making it energy-efficient.

Plug the cable into the designated spot at the back of Cuddy.

Step 6: Install the Flyscreen (Optional)

If you’re venting Cuddy externally, it’s crucial to install the fly screen to keep insects out of your compost loo. Discover different venting options here.

Step 7: Install the Battery

Cuddy’s urine sensor runs off a 9-volt battery. To get it up and running:

• Lift the seat to access the battery compartment.
• Use a Phillips #2 screwdriver to remove the screws.
• Connect the 9-volt battery in place.
• Replace the cover, ensuring the squishy side faces inward.

 Step 8: Test the Sensor

• Remove the urine bottle 
• Invert the bottle to hear the float mechanism clunk
• Hold the bottle beside the sensor, and the light should come on. 

Step 8: Prepare the Carbon Filter

Next, remove the carbon filter from its packaging. Be careful with the activated carbon, as it can be messy if spilled. Insert the filter beside the fan. The carbon filter is reusable. 

Step 9: Set Up the Solids Bin

Before you start using Cuddy, you’ll need to prepare the solids bin. To do this:

• Take the solids bin out and rotate it 180 degrees to unlock it from the transport position.
• Add your prepared coco coir or substrate. If you're using coco coir, hydrate it by placing the block in the hydration bag, adding 4 to 5 liters of water, and letting it expand.
• Once the coco coir is ready, pour it into the solids bin, covering the ends of the agitator legs by about an inch.
• Now, place the solids bin back inside Cuddy. The handle can either rest on top of the bottle or behind it, depending on your preference. Many users find it more convenient to have the handle behind, as you'll be emptying the urine bottle more frequently than the solids bin.

Click here to learn more about our small portable toilet, Cuddy!

If you’d like to vent your Cuddy externally, check out this venting guide, and if you want to wire your Cuddy into your van, check out this wiring guide.