Let the light in: 5 ways Cottage Life readers brightened their outhouses

Crescent cut-out: It’s the classic outhouse signature. This simple cut-out is a relatively easy thing to implement if you have a wooden door. Trace your design in chalk or pencil, and then grab a jigsaw to cut out your design. If you’re wondering why a crescent seems to be the design of choice for an outhouse, we’ve got the answer. Watch the video to find out.

If you’re not precious about your privacy, and you don’t mind risking a visit from a squirrel while your pants are down, then you might consider installing a glass door with a screen. I encountered one of these during a visit to a cottage this summer (above). Pros: it’ll let a lot of light in, and the window can be raised to allow a breeze in through the screen, which is helpful for airing the place out. Cons: it’s not ideal if your privy is located in a highly trafficked area.

This won’t solve the lack of light in there, but at the very least whitewashing the interior will help brighten it up. Not to mention, the white walls will provide a much-needed contrast to insects that may be lurking in corners, on the toilet seat, or in other areas you don’t want to find them while you’re in a prone position.

Unless you’ve got hydro hooked up to your outhouse, battery-operated LED lights are likely your best option in all outhouse situations for seeing in the dark. Some are motion-activated, however, consider that they may turn off while you’re sitting pretty. Under-cabinet LED lights that you turnon by pressing a button would be your best bet. You can find these and similar lighting options at most hardware stores. They are likely the most cost-effective option if you are upgrading an existing outhouse.

A window placed high enough up on a wall will ensure that you don’t wind up in a peep show. One with a screen will allow for air to circulate.

One way to bring in natural light while maintaining privacy is to install a skylight in the roof. You’ll want to install it correctly though, or you could wind up with some serious issues down the road. (Check out our skylights story in the Sept/Oct ’23 issue of Cottage Life magazine.)