Choosing the Right Porta Potties: A Guide for Event Planners

Planning an event requires attention to every detail, including the often-overlooked aspect of restroom facilities. Whether you’re organizing a small outdoor gathering or a large-scale festival, selecting the right porta potties is crucial to ensure your guests' comfort and convenience. With various options available, understanding your specific needs can make the decision process much smoother. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing porta potty rentals, helping you make an informed decision that suits the nature and size of your event.

Event Size and Duration

The size of your event and its duration are critical factors in determining the number and type of porta potties you’ll need. Here’s how these elements influence your choices:

1. Number of Attendees

One portable toilet for every fifty to one hundred people is a good rule of thumb. For larger events, additional units may be required to prevent long lines and ensure that everyone has access when needed. If your event is spread out over a large area, consider placing porta potties in multiple locations to avoid overcrowding at any one station.

2. Event Duration

For events lasting longer than four hours, it’s wise to increase the number of porta potties available. Extended durations may also necessitate units with extra features, such as handwashing stations or flushing mechanisms, to maintain hygiene standards throughout the event. Additionally, if your event spans multiple days, you may need to arrange for regular cleaning and maintenance services to keep the facilities in top condition.

3. Type of Event

The nature of the event also plays a role in porta potty selection. For example, a formal wedding may require more upscale options, while a casual outdoor concert may suffice with standard models. Understanding the expectations of your guests will help you choose the right mix of porta potties.

Types of Porta Potties

Not all porta potties are created equal, and understanding the different types available at Next Day Potty can help you choose the right ones for your event. Here’s a breakdown of the main types and their features:

1. Standard Porta Potties

These are the most commonly used units, offering basic functionality with a toilet and a hand sanitizer dispenser. They are cost-effective and suitable for most outdoor events. However, they lack advanced features like flushing mechanisms and sinks, making them less ideal for events where a higher level of comfort is desired.

2. Handicap-Accessible Porta Potties

These units are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, featuring a wider door, spacious interior, and handrails for ease of use. Providing handicap-accessible units is not just a legal requirement in many areas, but also a gesture of inclusivity, ensuring that all guests can comfortably use the restroom facilities.

3. Luxury Porta Potties

For events that demand a touch of elegance, luxury porta potties offer amenities such as flushing toilets, sinks with running water, mirrors, and even air conditioning. These units are ideal for weddings, corporate events, or any occasion where you want to provide a high-end restroom experience. While they come at a higher price point, the added comfort and aesthetic appeal can be well worth the investment. Read “Types of Porta Potties And Their Features” to know more. 

Additional Amenities

Beyond the basic porta potty units, there are several additional amenities that can enhance the overall restroom experience at your event. 

• Handwashing Stations: These standalone units provide running water, soap, and paper towels, allowing guests to wash their hands thoroughly. They are particularly important for events involving food and can help prevent the spread of germs.
• Hand Sanitizers: While standard porta potties often include a small hand sanitizer dispenser, additional hand sanitizer stations placed around the event area can encourage frequent use, especially in high-traffic areas. This is a cost-effective way to maintain hygiene, especially in outdoor environments where water access may be limited.
• Baby-Changing Stations: If your event is family-friendly, providing porta potties with baby-changing stations can be a thoughtful touch. These stations are typically found in handicap-accessible or luxury units and provide a clean, safe space for parents to tend to their infants.
• Lighting: For events that extend into the evening, consider porta potties equipped with interior lighting or adding external lighting around the units. This ensures that the facilities remain usable and safe after dark.

Placement and Setup Tips

Strategic placement of porta potties is key to ensuring they are easily accessible and do not detract from the overall event experience. 

• Accessibility: Position porta potties in areas that are easy to find and access, especially for elderly guests or those with disabilities. Ensure that the ground is level and stable to prevent any tipping or shifting of the units.
• Proximity to High-Traffic Areas: Place porta potties near food and drink stations, as well as entertainment areas, where guests are likely to gather. This minimizes the distance people have to walk to find a restroom, enhancing convenience.
• Privacy Considerations: While accessibility is important, so is privacy. Avoid placing porta potties in highly visible areas, such as near the main entrance or close to seating areas. Instead, choose locations that offer some degree of seclusion without being too far removed from the main event space.
• Ventilation: If possible, position the units so that the doors face away from the wind direction. This helps to ventilate the units naturally and reduces the likelihood of odors drifting toward guests.
• Cluster Units for Large Events: For large events, it’s a good idea to cluster porta potties together in groups of three or more. This helps manage crowds more effectively and ensures that guests have multiple options nearby.

Conclusion

Choosing the right porta potty for your event is more than just a logistical necessity—it’s a vital component of your event's success. By considering factors like event size and duration, understanding the different types of porta potties available, and incorporating additional amenities, you can ensure that your guests have a comfortable and convenient experience. Make your event planning stress-free by securing the perfect porta potties today.