The History of the Porta Potty

When you think of a porta potty, you probably picture a bright blue plastic box at a concert or construction site. But this unassuming invention has a surprisingly rich history that stretches way back to the 1940s. 

From its practical beginnings during wartime, to today's high tech trailers and ADA-compliant options, the porta potty has come a long way.

Let's explore the history of the porta potty, including who invented it, how it's changed over the decades, and why it remains essential to our modern life.

Who Invented the Porta Potty?

While there's no single inventor officially credited with the porta potty, the idea is widely believed to have originated in the 1940s during World War II. The shipbuilders working in Long Beach, CA noticed their employees were losing valuable time walking back and forth from the ships to the dockside restrooms.

To solve this problem, they had the idea to build a portable toilet that was enclosed in wood, that could be moved onto ships during the ship’s construction. The early units were essentially wooden boxes fitted with holding tanks. They weren't glamorous or comfortable, but they served a clear and practical purpose to reduce lost productivity and increase their workers efficiency.

We may not know the exact name of the person who came up with the idea, but their innovation laid the groundwork for the entire portable sanitation industry that we know today.

The Early Days of Porta Potties

The very first porta potties were heavy wooden or metal structures that were often bulky and difficult to transport. They typically featured a simple seat over a waste tank and were cleaned out manually. The holding tanks were sealed, but unpleasant odors were a major issue due to poor ventilation and the use of absorbent materials like wood.

They were far from perfect, but these early versions were an important step in job site hygiene. This is especially true during a time when indoor plumbing wasn't available in temporary or outdoor work environments.

Plastic Revolution of the 1960s

In the 1960s and 70s, technological improvements ushered in a new era for the porta potty. One of the most important innovations was the use of fibreglass and polyethylene plastic, which made the units much lighter, easier to clean and more durable.

These new materials help to address one of the biggest early complaints, the smell. The non porous nature of plastic made the units far more sanitary and improved ventilation systems helped to reduce the sewage smell dramatically. Over time, waste disposal methods also were improved. Rather than cleaning tanks manually, sanitation workers could use vacuum powered trucks to remove waste quickly and efficiently.

Porta Potties Evolution in the 80s & 90s

By the 1980s and the 1990s, the porta potty had become a staple at large events, festivals, construction sites and even disaster relief zones. Manufacturers began standardizing unit sizes and improving interior design for user comfort and safety. Features such as translucent roofs for a natural light, secure door locks, urinal attachments and improved ventilation systems all became common. 

This reflected increasing expectations for hygiene and convenience. This era also saw the development of portable hand-washing stations and restroom trailers, offering upgraded options for users who wanted more comfort or amenities.

ADA-Compliant Porta Potties Begin

With the pulsing of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990, accessibility became a legal requirement in public spaces, including temporary restroom facilities. This led to the development of ADA-compliant porta potties. These are larger than the standard units and include things like ground level or ramped entry, spacious interiors for wheelchair turning radius, grab bars and hand rails, and user-friendly door handles and locks. 

These units ensure that everyone has access to clean, safe and dignified restroom options and are now a standard requirement at public events and job sites.

History of Porta Potties Conclusion

The history of the porta potty is a story of necessity, innovation and adaptability. From the shipyards in the 1940s to the high end trailers at luxury events today, the porta potty has become an indispensable part of modern life.

Rent Your Porta Potty With Go Potties!

Whether you're choosing to rent a standard unit, a wheelchair accessible porta potty or an ADA restroom trailer, today's options are cleaner, safer and more user friendly than they ever have been. So the next time you step into a porta potty at a concert or on a job site, take a moment to contact us at Go Potties! to learn all about renting a porta potty today!