Sanitation & Hygiene

Deeply Rooted Church is fully off-grid. That means no running water, no flush toilets, and no showers on site. We want visitors, especially those coming from urban or suburban environments, to know exactly what to expect so you can prepare and stay comfortable.

This land is sacred, however it is also a working, rustic environment. Good sanitation is part of our responsibility to each other and to the earth.

Toilets: Outhouses, Not Flush Toilets

We use outhouses (privies) instead of indoor plumbing.

  • Outhouses are simple, ventilated toilet structures over a contained pit or system.

  • They are regularly maintained by caretakers and volunteers.

  • Toilet paper is provided.

  • Please throw only human waste into the pit — no toilet paper, pads, tampons, wipes, trash, or other items.

If you have never used an outhouse before, here is the basic idea: You go in, close the door, do what you need to do, wipe, toss the toilet paper in the bucket provided, and leave the space as clean as you found it.

No Showers on Site

There are no showers at Deeply Rooted.

Plan for:

  • Sponge baths with a washcloth and a small basin of water

  • Biodegradable wipes for basic cleaning

  • Wearing layers and changing into clean, dry clothes as needed

If you need a full shower during a multi-day event, you may choose to:

  • Book a nearby hotel for one night during the weekend

  • Head into town for a shower between days, if that works for you

We recommend thinking of this as “camp hygiene” rather than everyday home hygiene. Clean enough to be healthy and comfortable is the goal.

Water: What We Have and What You Should Bring

We do not have running tap water in buildings. We do have:

  • A well on site used to fill large jugs and containers

You should still plan to bring:

  • Your own drinking water or refillable water containers

  • Extra water for washing hands, brushing teeth, and basic cleaning

Please do not assume unlimited water is available. Off-grid means we are careful and intentional with every gallon.

Handwashing & General Hygiene

Good hand hygiene is essential in a communal setting.

We recommend you bring:

  • Hand sanitizer

  • A small basin, collapsible bowl, or similar container

  • Biodegradable soap

Use hand sanitizer or wash your hands:

  • Before eating

  • After using the outhouse

  • After handling trash, animals, or dirty items

Healthy community starts with clean hands.

Menstrual & Personal Care

If you menstruate or use incontinence products, please prepare for off-grid disposal realities.

  • Bring extra pads, tampons, cups, or other supplies you rely on.

  • Used pads, tampons, liners, wipes, and diapers must be bagged and packed out with your trash.

  • Do not dispose of these items in the outhouses or leave them in the woods.

If you are new to doing this kind of care in a rustic setting and feel unsure, ask a trusted community member or clergy for tips. You are not alone in figuring this out.

Trash & Greywater

To protect the land and wildlife:

  • Pack out all personal trash, including hygiene products, wrappers, and wipes.

  • Do not leave food scraps, scented items, or open trash bags around camp or in the lodge.

  • Dish and hand-washing water (greywater) should be disposed of in designated areas, not dumped randomly around shrines, paths, or camps.

When in doubt, ask a caretaker where to pour water or place trash.

Adjusting from City Life to Off-Grid Life

If you are used to:

  • Hot showers on demand

  • Flush toilets

  • Running water at every sink

Deeply Rooted may feel different at first. Many people adapt quickly when they know what to expect and come prepared with:

  • Wipes

  • Extra underwear, socks, and layers

  • A washcloth and small basin

  • A plan for hair and body care that does not require long showers

You do not need to be “perfectly clean” to be welcome here. You only need to be sanitary, respectful, and mindful of shared space.