Portable toilets first came into use in the 1940s. Since then, they’ve constantly improved.
There are different types that have different capabilities. They can also be customized to fit your event perfectly.
When it comes to choosing a restroom trailer or porta-potty, you should know all the dirty details. What you’ll learn is that these two options are actually both very sanitary.
Ready to dig into the world of outdoor bathrooms? By the end of this article, you’ll know which one to choose for your needs.
Restroom Trailer vs. Porta-Potty: What’s the Difference?
Both outdoor bathrooms are there for the same reason, but they have many differences.
A porta-potty is the most basic of the two options. They are singular stalls that accommodate only one person. Inside, you’ll typically find one toilet and not much room for anything else.
Most of the time, the porta-potty lacks many features of a true bathroom. This includes the ability to flush, the lack of a sink for handwashing and lights.
However, it is possible to add these features if needed. It’s also possible to upgrade to other porta-potty units that offer these features too.
A restroom trailer is often more advanced and gives the feel of an indoor public bathroom. Rather than only having one stall, this type of restroom usually has two or more.
These restrooms can be unisex or divided however you like.
They also come standard with many features that a porta-potty doesn’t. Mirrors, sinks, and lights are just a few of the features that this type of bathroom has to offer. They’re usually climate controlled as well.
If comfort is your main priority, a restroom trailer will provide all this and more.
What Should I Consider When Choosing?
Before picking a type of portable restroom for your event, you should carefully consider your needs. Depending on where you’ll be using the restroom and what event it is for, your needs may change.
Think about all these questions before settling on one to be sure that you made the right choice.
Who Will be Using the Unit?
You may have different needs depending on who the unit is for.
Are you looking for a portable restroom for your employees on a job site? If so, they may not need all the bells and whistles that come with a restroom trailer. A toilet and a sink may be all that’s needed in this case.
In the case that you’re looking for a portable restroom for an event such as a wedding, you might need more features. Guests may need to touch up their makeup or fix their tie in the mirror. It can feel a bit more luxurious than a porta-potty.
On the job site, it may be more practical to use a porta-potty. For special events, a restroom trailer might be in order.
Where Will the Portable Restroom Be Located?
Space can play a large part in which option is right for you.
If you’re having a gathering like a backyard barbeque, you may not have much space for a bathroom trailer. A porta-potty may fit perfectly in your backyard.
On a job site or at a festival, you might have the room for a bathroom trailer. Usually, these areas allow for much more space to be used.
It’s a good idea to have a look at the space that you have before determining which type is best for your needs.
How Many People Will Be Using the Unit?
Both types of bathrooms offer advantages here. You can have multiple porta-potty units installed, or a restroom trailer or two if needed. In this case, you would be able to accommodate everyone who might need to use them.
We also have a tool that can help you determine how many portable restrooms you need for your crowd size.
You can also think about having many locations on-site for the restrooms. Porta-potty units can be placed in different areas around the site easily. Portable restroom units could be too, but keep in mind that there are multiple stalls within them.
How Comfortable Should the Restroom Be?
If you’re having an event, comfort should be one of your top priorities. For other uses, you might put more importance on function.
When looking at a restroom trailer vs. porta-potty, it’s easy to see that a restroom trailer provides more comfort. However, a porta-potty is all about function.
If your guests or workers aren’t going to be spending much time in the restroom, a porta-potty might work for you. If they are, then you might need the comfort of a restroom trailer.
What is Your Budget?
Another important thing to consider when looking into portable bathrooms is your budget. This might differ depending on the type of event or purpose you need them for.
Porta-potty units are usually cheaper than restroom trailers, but it can be pricy if you need many of them. Porta-potty units with more features will also cost you more.
The restroom trailers have more toilets in them, but they are more expensive. The price also depends on the size of the model. They also come with many more features than your average porta-potty.
Which One Is Right for Me?
If you’ve answered all the questions above, then you’ll have a good idea of which type of portable bathroom is right for you. Both the restroom trailer and the porta-potty have their advantages and disadvantages. The trick is to find the one that will satisfy your guests or employees.
At Plummers Disposal Service, we have restroom trailers and porta-potty units available. We have basic porta-potty units and units equipped with extra features as well. Our restroom trailers also offer luxury on wheels in many different sizes.
If you’re looking for portable restroom solutions in Michigan, we can help you. Get a free quote for your event today!