Let’s be honest. Porta potties don’t always get the best rap. We’ve spent a fair amount of time busting porta potty myths and addressing common misconceptions. 

Portable restrooms offer convenience—often seen on construction and event sites where traditional restrooms are either inaccessible or don’t support the needs of the event. 

Still, many people hesitate when it comes to using or renting a porta potty. 

Knowledge is power. That’s why we’re answering some more commonly asked questions about porta potties in the hopes that it will deepen understanding of these sometimes misjudged units.

Surprisingly (or maybe not so), one of the most common questions we hear is about why the porta potty water is blue. So, we’ll start there. 

Why is Porta Potty Water Blue?

The blue water you see in a porta potty is not just for aesthetics. It serves a few important purposes:

1. Deodorization: The blue liquid contains deodorizing chemicals that help mask unpleasant odors. Porta potties are used by many people throughout the day, and without these chemicals, the smell would get pretty overwhelming.
2. Disinfection: The solution also contains disinfectants that kill bacteria and germs to make the environment more sanitary.
3. Visibility: The blue color helps to hide the waste, making the experience of using a porta potty a bit more pleasant. It also helps the maintenance staff see when the unit needs to be serviced.

The chemicals used in the blue water are specifically designed to be safe and effective for use in portable restrooms. 

How Often Are Porta Potties Serviced?

Porta potties are typically serviced on a regular schedule, which can vary based on usage. Servicing includes pumping out waste, refilling the blue water and toilet paper, and cleaning the interior. Frequency may also depend on the rental company.

With ZTERS, portable toilets for weekend events are serviced when they are picked up on Monday. Portable toilet rentals for construction sites or longer-term periods are serviced weekly and billed on a monthly basis. In general, 1 toilet serviced weekly is needed for every 8-10 workers working a normal 40 hour work week.

But we recognize that needs vary. That’s why we invite our customers to give us a call to customize their contracts so we can find a solution that meets their needs.

What Happens to the Waste from Porta Potties?

The waste from porta potties is collected by specialized trucks equipped with vacuum pumps. These trucks transport the waste to a sewage treatment facility, where it is processed and treated. The treatment process ensures that the waste is safely disposed of and does not harm the environment.

Check out our post on how porta potties work to learn more.

Are Porta Potties Full of Germs?

This is another extremely common question and we recognize that it’s an important one. As mentioned earlier, regular servicing helps stave off build-up of excessive germs or bacteria. One study found that our cell phones carry about ten times more bacteria than public toilet seats. Yikes! 

Naturally, anywhere where human waste is present, there will be germs. But when compared to other objects we interact with on a daily basis, porta potties are actually quite benign. Regardless, we’ll always preach the importance of proper handwashing.

Are Porta Potties Environmentally Friendly?

Modern porta potties are designed with environmental considerations in mind. The deodorizing and disinfecting chemicals are often biodegradable, and the waste treatment processes are regulated to minimize environmental impact. Additionally, using porta potties can save water compared to traditional flushing toilets, making them a more sustainable option in certain situations.

What Happens if a Porta Potty is Knocked Over?

There are a few concerns here. One being spillage of waste and deodorizing chemicals. Structural damage to the unit may also occur, making it unusable until repaired. This situation poses hygiene and health risks. 

To address a knocked-over porta potty, we encourage renters to contact us right away. We’ll dispatch someone to upright the unit, remove waste, conduct a thorough cleaning, and inspect for damage. In the meantime, ensure the area is safe, avoid direct contact, and contain the area to prevent further contamination.

Preventative measures such as secure placement, anchoring in high-wind areas, and regular monitoring can help minimize the risk of porta potties being knocked over in the future.We always encourage renters to call us immediately if their porta potty falls over or is damaged. 

Can Porta Potties Be Used in Winter?

Yes, porta potties can be used in winter. In colder climates, special antifreeze chemicals are added to the blue water to prevent it from freezing. Additionally, some units may be insulated or even heated to ensure they remain functional in freezing temperatures. Check out our blog post on how we winterize portable toilets for more on this.

How Many Porta Potties Should There Be at an Event?

As a general rule, we recommend 1 toilet per 25 people, but there is no one-size-fits-all solution. If alcohol is being served, people will likely be visiting the restroom more often so you should take that into account. ZTERS created a portable toilet calculator to help you determine how many toilets you might need for your event.

Not only should you consider the number of porta potties needed, but you should also consider the type of porta potties. This leads us to another common question about the different porta potty types.

Are There Different Types of Porta Potties?

Yes, there are various types of porta potties to meet different needs. Some common types include:

1. Standard Units: Basic porta potties with a toilet and urinal.
2. Flushable Units: Equipped with a flushing mechanism and a sink.
3. ADA-Compliant Porta Potties: Designed to be accessible for individuals with disabilities, offering more space and handrails.
4. Luxury Porta Potties: High-end porta potties with additional amenities such as mirrors, hand sanitizers, and better ventilation. A great option for weddings.

Check out our Porta Potty Size Guide to learn more about portable toilet dimensions.

How Can I Make Using a Porta Potty More Pleasant?

While using a porta potty is not usually anyone’s favorite experience, there are ways to make it more bearable:

1. Choose Well-Maintained Units: Look for units that are clean and well-stocked. Event organizers and rental companies often ensure their units are serviced regularly.
2. Bring Personal Supplies: Carry your own hand sanitizer and toilet paper as a backup.
3. Minimize Contact: Use a paper towel or tissue to touch surfaces when possible.
4. Wash your hands: This goes without saying. We often bundle portable handwashing stations (a.k.a. portable sinks) with our porta potty rentals, increasing sanitation.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Porta Potty?

Porta potty rental costs vary based on several factors, including the type of unit, location, duration of rental, and the frequency of service required. Long-term rentals might offer discounted rates. In some situations, like if you are in need of an after-hours delivery, you may be met with additional fees.

It’s best to get in touch with an account manager to get a zero-obligation quote.

Final Thoughts

Porta potties are a practical solution for providing relief when traditional bathrooms aren’t an option. Don’t let common myths deter you from renting a unit and making your event or jobsite a better one. Eager to learn more? Check out more porta potty blog posts here.

When you’re ready to rent portable toilets near you, give us a call!