If you’ve ever attended an outdoor event, you probably noticed a port-a-potty or two placed in discreet locations. These portable bathrooms come in handy for a variety of occasions—such as festivals, concerts, and marathons—when a large number of people will be in attendance, as well as instances when conventional restrooms are not available. To give you a bit more insight into these helpful devices, consider the frequently asked questions listed below.

4 FAQ About Port-a-Potties

When Was the First Portable Toilet Created?

During WWII, shipyard workers had to make long hikes from the work sites back to the docks just to use the restroom. Once the business owners realized how much productivity was being lost, they decided to build small wooden or metal cubicles that contained a holding tank and could be transported from site to site. Unfortunately, these early models were incredibly heavy, difficult to move, and hard to keep clean.

How Much Water Does a Port-a-Potty Use?

Since portable toilets are not flushed, they actually use almost no water. This makes them much more environmentally friendly than a conventional toilet and more economical to use for large events.

What Is a Port-a-Potty Made Of?

Generally, the majority of a portable toilet consists of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic and aluminum materials, but it will probably also contain smaller springs and other components made out of steel. This heavy HDPE use means the restroom can come in a variety of color options and is also easy to transport.

Where Should a Port-a-Potty Be Placed?

While you can place a portable toilet almost anywhere, some locations are better than others. For best use, find a well-lit area away from where people tend to gather. Also, ensure the ground is stable, level, and will provide easy access for the waste removal service trucks. 

If you are planning an event and want to make sure everyone has a sanitary place to go, contact the professionals at Econ-O-Johns for help. They provide port-a-potty rentals to the Waterloo, Belleville, and Columbia, IL, area. Each restroom comes complete with hand sanitizer, paper towels, toilet tissue, appropriate dispensers, and trash receptacles. Call them today at (618) 939-3001 to receive a quote and learn about their special rates. You can also visit their website for more information about their services.