4 Types of Porta Potties | Which One Do You Need?

4 Types of Porta Potties | Which One Do You Need?

 

types of porta potties
Whether you’re organizing a music festival, a wedding, or managing a construction site, the right facilities are crucial. 

This guide will walk you through the four main types of porta potties—standard, flushable, with sinks, and ADA-accessible—so you can find the perfect fit.

 

Key Summary

  • Standard Porta Potties: Budget-friendly, ideal for large events, but may have odor issues.
  • Flushable Units: More sanitary, suitable for formal events, but require a water source.
  • Units with Sinks: Promote better hygiene, perfect for food festivals, but challenging in remote areas.
  • ADA-Accessible: Essential for compliance, more spacious, but costlier and heavier.

 

Standard Portable Toilet

The standard portable toilet is the most basic type of porta potty. It’s a simple, no-frills option designed to accommodate up to 125 users. Standard portable toilets are ideal for:

  • Outdoor Events: Festivals, concerts, and fairs where many restrooms are needed.
  • Construction Sites: Providing essential facilities for workers.
  • Public Parks and Beaches: Places with limited or no permanent restrooms.

Pros

Cons

  • Standard porta potties are budget-friendly, making them an economical choice for large events or construction sites.
  • Straightforward and easy to use for everyone.
  • Can have more noticeable odors due to no flushing mechanism, especially during hot weather or with high usage.
  • The basic appearance might not be suitable for upscale events or formal gatherings.

Standard Portable Toilet

Seat Ht: 19″Exterior Ht: 91″Width: 43.5″Depth: 47″Waste tank: 60 gal.

 

Flushable Portable Toilet

The flushable portable toilet is an upgrade from the standard model, featuring a flush mechanism that adds a touch of familiarity and comfort. Flushable portable toilets are suitable for:

  • Weddings and Formal Events: Where guests expect a higher level of comfort and cleanliness.
  • Corporate Functions: Professional gatherings where maintaining a clean environment is essential.
  • VIP Sections at Events: Providing an upgraded restroom experience.

Pros

Cons

  • Allows waste to be flushed into a separate holding tank, reducing odors.
  • More sanitary compared to non-flushing units.
  • The flushing mechanism can lead to mechanical issues or breakdowns if not properly maintained.
  • Flushable units require a water source, which can be challenging to manage at remote locations without easy access to water.

Flushable Portable Toilet

Seat Ht: 19″Exterior Ht: 91″Width: 43.5″Depth: 47″Waste tank: 60 gal.

 

Portable Toilet with Sink

These portable toilets come equipped with a built-in sink and soap dispenser, providing the convenience of handwashing within the unit itself. Portable toilets with sinks are perfect for:

  • Food Festivals: Where food safety and hygiene are critical.
  • Family Events: Ensuring kids and adults alike have easy access to handwashing.
  • Community Gatherings: Public events where hygiene is a priority.

Pros

Cons

  • Includes a sink and soap dispenser, promoting better hygiene.
  • Users can wash their hands immediately after using the toilet without needing separate handwashing stations.
  • Everything you need for basic sanitation is within one unit.
  • Managing the sink water supply and greywater drainage can be logistically challenging, especially in remote or temporary locations.
  • In colder climates, the water in the sink can freeze, rendering the handwashing facility unusable and potentially damaging the unit.

Portable Toilet with Sink

Seat Ht: 19″Exterior Ht: 91″Width: 43.5″Depth: 47″Waste tank: 60 gal.

 

ADA-Accessible Portable Toilet

Designed to be easily used by individuals with physical disabilities, ADA-accessible portable toilets ensure that everyone has access to restroom facilities. ADA-accessible portable toilets are essential for:

  • Public Events: Ensuring compliance with accessibility laws.
  • Community Festivals: Providing facilities for all attendees, including those with disabilities.
  • Long-term Sites: Construction or event sites where inclusivity is a priority.

 

TAKE NOTE: You need at least 1 ADA unit per cluster of 20 porta potties.
 

Pros

Cons

  • Larger interior space with grab bars and a wider door for wheelchair access.
  • Meets ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) regulations.
  • Features designed to assist those with mobility issues.
  • Due to their size and weight, transporting ADA units may require specialized equipment or vehicles.
  • Full compliance with ADA standards can increase the cost of rental or purchase, maintenance, and servicing to uphold accessibility features.

ADA Accessible Portable Toilet

Seat Ht: 18.5″Exterior Ht: 90.5″Width: 66″Depth: 86.5″Waste tank: 75 gal.

 

How to Pick the Right Porta Potty

Selecting the right porta potty for your event or construction site involves more than just picking the first option. Several important factors should influence your decision to ensure that the facilities meet the needs of your guests or workers. Here’s a detailed look at what to keep in mind:

FactorStandard Porta PottyFlushable Porta PottyPortable Toilet with SinkADA-Accessible Porta Potty
Affordability✔️
Weather Resistance✔️✔️✔️✔️
Ease of Use✔️✔️✔️✔️
Handwashing Facilities✔️
Self-Contained✔️✔️✔️✔️
Improved Hygiene✔️✔️
Comfort✔️✔️✔️
Flushing Mechanism✔️

 

Don’t Know Which Porta Potty To Choose?

Our experts will help you decide

CONTACT US NOW

 

Cost Comparison

Porta Potty TypeDaily Rental Price RangeMonthly Rental Price Range
Standard Porta Potty$194.63$276.99
ADA-Compliant Porta Potty$243.90$348.48
Deluxe Portable Restroom with Interior Sink$271.28$377.41

 

Additional Considerations:

Holding Tank Size

The holding tank size is crucial because it determines how much waste the porta potty can handle before it needs to be emptied.

  • Event Duration: A smaller holding tank might be sufficient for short events. However, you’ll need a larger tank or more frequent servicing for multi-day events or long-term projects.
  • Number of Users: Consider the expected number of people who will use the porta potty. Higher usage demands a larger tank to prevent overflows and unpleasant odors.
  • Servicing Frequency: If your site or event can accommodate frequent servicing by a waste management company, a smaller tank might work. Otherwise, opt for a larger tank to minimize service interruptions.

 

Seat Height and Bowl Size

Comfort is key when it comes to restroom facilities, especially for those with mobility issues or for taller individuals.

  • User Comfort: A comfortable seat height (usually around 17 to 19 from the ground) makes it easier for users to sit and stand, particularly elderly users or those with disabilities.
  • Bowl Size: A larger bowl can provide more comfort and ease of use, especially for bigger individuals.

 

Durability and Quality

Porta potties are often subjected to rough use and harsh weather conditions.

  • Construction Material: Look for porta potties made from high-density polyethylene or other sturdy materials that can withstand wear and tear.
  • Weather Resistance: Units should be able to handle various weather conditions, including heavy rain, strong winds, and extreme temperatures.
  • Maintenance: Durable porta potties are easier to clean and maintain, which can be particularly important for long-term use.

 

Lighting and Security

Safety and convenience are critical, especially for events that take place at night or in remote locations. Proper lighting and secure locking mechanisms can make a big difference.

  • Internal Lighting: Internal lighting is essential for nighttime events or dark locations. Some porta potties have built-in battery-powered lights, while others require external lighting.
  • Security Locks: Ensure that the units have secure locks to protect users’ privacy and prevent unauthorized access. 

 

Environmental Impact

Considering the environmental impact of your porta potty choice is important, especially for eco-conscious events or organizations. Reducing the ecological footprint can be a significant selling point and align with sustainability goals.

  • Chemical Use: Traditional porta potties use chemicals to break down waste and control odors. Look for eco-friendly options that use biodegradable chemicals.
  • Water Consumption: Some units are designed to minimize water usage, which can be beneficial in drought-prone areas or for reducing overall water consumption.
  • Disposal: Choose providers who follow environmentally responsible waste disposal practices. Some companies offer recycling programs for porta potty components and use green cleaning products.

 

Porta Potty Alternatives

If traditional porta potties don’t meet your needs, consider these alternatives:
 

Restroom Trailers

Mobile units with multiple stalls, running water, and other amenities for a more luxurious experience.
 

Looking to Give Your Porta Potty Users a Luxury Experience?

Our VIP restroom trailers are exactly what you need

RENT NOW

 

Indoor Portable Toilets

Designed for indoor use, these units are ideal for temporary installations in buildings or homes under renovation.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Porta Potties Have Urinals?

Yes, many standard porta potties include a urinal in addition to the toilet seat to accommodate more users.
 

What is the difference between a Porta John and a porta potty?

“Porta John” and “porta potty” are essentially different names for the same thing – a portable toilet. The choice of term often comes down to regional preferences or brand-specific naming.
 

What is the difference between a porta-potty and an outhouse?

A porta-potty is a modern, lightweight plastic toilet that can be moved from one location to another and is equipped with a holding tank for waste.

An outhouse is a more permanent, often wooden structure built over a hole in the ground, where waste is disposed of directly into the ground, making it less mobile and more traditional.
 

Conclusion

Picking the right portable toilet isn’t as difficult as you may have thought. It comes down to your specific requirements, whether it’s for a large public event, a formal gathering, or a construction site.

By understanding the features and benefits of each type, you can ensure that your guests or workers have access to clean, convenient, and comfortable restroom facilities.

Think about the various considerations and select the porta potty that best fits your needs for a seamless and satisfactory experience. If you don’t know where to find the best porta potty rentals, All Site Rental has your back. Contact us today for more information.