The modern porta potty you see today at outdoor events is far different from the first portable toilet ever made. Thanks to innovations in technology, many of today’s models include convenient features, such as hand sanitizers and handicap accessibility. Here, Baldwin Portable Toilets in Seminole, AL, takes us through a brief history of portable restrooms.

The Porta Potty: Where Did It All Begin?

When Was the First Model Developed?

Portable bathrooms first began popping up during World War II. The shipyard in Long Beach, CA, was the original birthplace, as laborers were losing time climbing on and off ships to use the restroom. Thus, makeshift facilities were developed on ships in the 1940s to drive efficiency. Unlike today’s sleek designs, these restrooms were built solely with functionality in mind and featured a wooden cabana with a small holding tank.

How Did It Advance Through the 1900s?

By the mid-1900s, the construction industry caught on to the benefits provided by portable facilities. The 1950s and ‘60s saw a boom. A handful of companies began to mass produce the toilets, though they were still cumbersome and had minimal features to support hygiene. In the ‘70s, the porta potty got a makeover when fiberglass became the leading material used for production. Then, in the 1980s, manufacturers replaced fiberglass with plastic, which is simple to clean, easy to construct, and lightweight.

What Does the Modern Porta Potty Have?

Today, portable bathrooms include features such as mirrors, hand sanitizer, and light fixtures. There are even upgraded restroom trailers available, which boast added comfort and privacy, as well as portable sink stations. Today’s portable facilities are highly efficient and use 90% less water than conventional bathrooms. They save 125 million gallons of fresh water daily, making them an environmentally conscious solution for accommodating the needs of individuals in outdoor settings.

With more than 45 years’ experience, Baldwin Portable Toilets has been a part of the portable toilet industry for most of its history. If you’re planning an event or project in Baldwin County, AL, or Escambia or Santa Rosa Counties in Florida, their dedicated team will provide porta potties catered to your needs. Call (251) 946-3000 or visit their website to learn more.