Using a portable toilet should be a quick and straightforward experience, but the dreaded toilet splashback can sometimes throw a wrench in the works. Splashback occurs when the impact of waste hitting the water causes it to splash back upwards—a less-than-pleasant surprise for any user. Let’s explore what causes splashback and, more importantly, how to avoid it.
What Causes Toilet Splashback?
Toilet splashback happens when waste displaces water in the bowl, creating air pockets that force water upwards in a small eruption. Surprisingly, smaller waste can cause more splashback than larger deposits due to the pressure created and the size of the cavity formed in the water. Additionally, urinating before a bowel movement can increase the chance of splashback by altering the water’s surface tension.
While this phenomenon might seem like an unfixable nuisance, there are a few simple hacks to minimise or completely avoid splashback, whether you’re using a portable toilet or a standard one.
How to Prevent Toilet Splashback
- Use Toilet Paper as a Splash Barrier
- Before using the toilet, place a strip or two of toilet paper onto the water’s surface. This breaks the water’s surface tension, reducing the chances of splashback. It’s a quick, easy fix that works in most situations.
- Flush Before You Go
- Flushing immediately before a bowel movement can reduce splashback by creating a swirling effect in the water. While it might seem unconventional, many people find this method effective.
- Adjust Your Diet
- Harder stools are more likely to cause intense splashback due to their weight and impact. Eating foods rich in water and fibre, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help soften stools and reduce splashback. Slow-cooked meals and other fibre-packed dishes are a great addition to your diet for this purpose.
- Lower Your Sitting Position
- By lowering your body closer to the seat, you reduce the distance your waste falls, which weakens the force of the impact. This simple trick takes some practice but can significantly reduce splashback.
- Try a Squatting Position
- Squatting over the toilet rather than sitting can also minimise splashback. While it won’t prevent it entirely, the change in angle reduces the force of the impact, making splashback less intense. Portable toilets often have enough space for you to adopt this position comfortably.
Why It’s Important to Avoid Splashback
Splashback isn’t just unpleasant—it can also raise hygiene concerns, particularly in portable toilets or public restrooms. Preventing it not only ensures a cleaner experience for you but also helps maintain the overall cleanliness of the facility for others.
By using these simple tips, you can make your portable toilet experience more comfortable and hygienic, no matter where you are.
A Final Thought
While splashback can be annoying, it’s easily preventable with the right techniques. Whether you’re placing a strip of toilet paper, adjusting your sitting position, or tweaking your diet, small changes can make a big difference. Next time you use a portable toilet, you’ll be armed with these tips to keep things clean and hassle-free.
Portable toilets don’t have to be a source of worry. At WC Portables, we prioritise hygiene and user comfort in every unit we provide. If you’re planning an event or managing a construction site, get in touch to learn how we can supply top-quality facilities for your needs.
These simple tips will help prevent or reduce the intensity of toilet splashback in a portable toilet.
