What Not to Put in a Porta Potty
A porta potty tank is designed for human waste and toilet paper only. Everything else makes the unit harder to pump and can lead to a cleaning or damage charge.
What should never go in a porta potty?
Never put trash, diapers, wipes, feminine products, food, cans, paint, concrete washout, chemicals, motor oil, cigarette butts or hot ashes in a porta potty. These items clog the pump hose, damage the tank or react with the deodorizer, and some are illegal to dispose of this way.
- Trash, cans, bottles and food
- Diapers, wipes and feminine products
- Paint, solvents, concrete washout and chemicals
- Cigarette butts and hot ashes
- Clothing, rags and gloves
Why does it matter what goes in the tank?
It matters because the service truck pumps the tank through a hose about 2 inches wide. Bulky items jam the hose and must be pulled out by hand, which takes time and can add a cleaning charge. Chemicals can also damage the plastic tank and make the waste harder to treat.
How do I stop people misusing the porta potty?
Put a trash can right outside the door, add a small sign, and give job site crews a separate washout area for paint and concrete. At events, a hand-washing station next to the unit keeps guests from rinsing things inside it.
What should I do if the porta potty gets full?
If a porta potty gets full before its service day, close it and call us for an extra visit. Weekday extra service visits cost $55 per unit and are added to that day's route when possible. If it fills every week, add a unit or move to twice-weekly service.