Types Of Porta Potties (Explained)

When renting portable toilets, also known as porta potties, for an event or worksite, there are many options to consider.

Not all portable restrooms are created equal. Choosing the right type and features for your needs is key to keeping guests happy and costs under control.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the most common varieties of portable toilets available and what situations they are best suited for.

Different Types of Porta Potties

1. Standard Portable Toilets

The standard portable toilet is a simple, single user plastic stall containing a toilet and toilet paper holder.

It has a door that locks for privacy and venting for airflow. These basic units provide the minimum necessary functionality for a portable bathroom.

Standard porta potties are best for smaller outdoor gatherings where bathroom needs will be minimal, such as:

  • Small backyard parties
  • Weddings with under 75 guests
  • Sporting events with few spectators
  • Construction sites with 5-10 workers

Because they lack sinks and other amenities, standard units are recommended only for very short term use. Rental rates are lowest for basic portable toilets.

2. ADA Compliant Portable Toilets

ADA compliant porta potties are designed specifically for wheelchair accessibility. The stall space and door are wider to accommodate wheelchairs.

The toilet height is taller and handrails are installed for support and transferring. ADA units also have ramps for entry from ground level.

These accessible portable toilets should be rented for any event where disabled individuals 

may be present. They are required by law for public accommodations. ADA units incur marginally higher rental fees over standard units, but provide necessary facilities.

3. VIP Portable Toilets

VIP portable restrooms have upscale features and designs to provide luxury bathroom services for guests at posh events like celebrity weddings, awards shows, or VIP hospitality at major sports events. They deliver privacy and elegance.

VIP portable toilet features include:

  • Spacious stalls with wood or composite exterior
  • Granite countertops and vanities
  • Flushing porcelain or ceramic toilets
  • Decorative lighting and music
  • Full length mirror
  • Air conditioning

For pampered portable potty provisions, VIP units are the top choice despite higher rental rates.

4. Deluxe Portable Toilets

For a step above standard porta potties but below luxury VIP units, deluxe portable toilets offer upgraded amenities at moderate rental rates. Typical deluxe features include:

  • Flushing porcelain toilet
  • Sink with running water
  • Mirror and vanity kit
  • Lighting
  • Soap dispenser
  • Paper towel dispenser

Deluxe portable restrooms comfortably serve guests for longer events like all day festivals or weeks-long construction projects. The sink allows hand washing for better sanitation. Added creature comforts enhance the rental experience.

5. Shower Trailers

Where temporary living facilities are needed, such as disaster relief sites or campgrounds, mobile shower trailers provide full bathroom amenities including toilets, sinks, and showers.

These large trailers can house 4-6 separate bathroom stalls with complete plumbing.

Mobile shower trailers have high capacity fresh water tanks and gray water storage for waste.

Their versatility makes them useful at many types of events from back country weddings to community outreach projects. But higher rental rates reflect the equipment and servicing required.

6. Restroom Trailers

Step up from multiple portable toilet stalls to an entire restroom trailer containing all facilities in one wheeled space. Restroom trailers typically offer:

  • Women’s and men’s sections with 3-4 toilets and sinks in each
  • Urinals in men’s area
  • Baby changing station
  • Air conditioning/heating
  • Tile or wood interior finish
  • Plentiful lighting
  • Door for privacy

These mobile bathroom trailers are self contained and can serve higher capacity events of a few hundred people. Rental costs are on par with luxury VIP units for premium amenities and convenience.

7. Hand Wash Stations

One final portable sanitation option is simply a hand wash station.

This is a portable cart or stand with a water tank, soap dispenser, paper towels, and trash bin so guests can wash up without a full restroom.

Hand wash stations placed near porta potties or food service areas help maintain cleanliness and prevent spread of contagions. They are an affordable supplement to add sanitizing services almost anywhere.

Key Considerations When Renting Porta Potties

Several factors go into determining the right type and number of porta potties for an event or job site:

  • Number of attendees: More people means more units needed. A good rule of thumb is 1 toilet per 40 attendees for a 5-8 hour event.
  • Type of event: Formal gatherings may require upscale trailers, while backyard BBQs can use standard single stalls. Construction sites need durable and private stalls.
  • Length of event: For multi-day events, trailers with luxury fixtures and hot water are ideal to withstand heavy usage.
  • Accessibility: Assess whether handicapped accessible stalls are required to comply with ADA mandates.
  • Location: If the terrain is rough, tankless composting toilets may be the best option. Trailers work well on pavement.
  • Waste management: Ensure waste will be pumped out and dealt with properly. Remote areas are better suited for composting toilets.
  • Budget: Luxury trailers cost considerably more than basic porta potties. Select amenities based on what you can afford.

Take the time to evaluate your unique situation and toilet needs. This ensures the best porta potty rental experience for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How far in advance should I reserve porta potties?

Ans: Reserve units as early as possible, ideally 2-4 weeks in advance. Popular weekends book up quickly, so get your rental order in early. Last minute rentals often come with an added delivery fee.

Q2: How are porta potties cleaned?

Ans: Reputable companies pump out waste tanks and thoroughly clean and sanitize the units between each rental. Only use suppliers who provide excellent servicing.

Q3: How much do porta potties cost to rent?

Ans: Rental costs range widely from $50 – $300 per unit depending on type, features, and length of rental. Basic units cost around $50-75 per day, while luxurious trailers cost up to $300 per day.

Q4: Can I rent handicap accessible porta potties?

Ans: Yes, ADA-compliant wheelchair accessible units are available to rent. They have wider doors, handrails, elevated toilets, and increased interior space.

Q5: Do porta potties come with toilet paper and supplies?

Ans: Basic units do not, but higher tier units come supplied with TP, hand sanitizer, and other necessities. You can request to have these items stocked for an extra fee if renting basic units.

Conclusion

Portable toilets provide a flexible, sanitary bathroom solution for events and worksites.

They come in a variety of styles, from basic units to luxury trailer restrooms. Important factors in selecting porta potties include number of guests, type of event, rental duration, location, accessibility needs, waste management, and budget.

With proper planning, portable toilets can effectively serve bathroom needs for nearly any occasion.