How to Use a Portable Camping Toilet

Let's be honest, nobody *loves* talking about toilets. But if you camp with young kids or you just hate that 2 AM dash across a dark, wet field to the toilet block, a portable camping toilet is a massive comfort boost.

People worry they will be complicated or, well, gross. But modern cassette toilets are brilliant. They are self contained, hygienic, and genuinely do not smell if you use them correctly. I was hesitant at first, but now I consider one essential for family trips. This is my no nonsense guide to the what, where, and how.

If you are just starting out, a simple 20L starter model like this one is all you need to get going.

The Chemicals: Pink vs. Blue

This is the most important part. You need two types of chemical, and they must not be mixed up.

• Pink Fluid (Top Tank): This is for the *flush* tank. Its job is to keep the fresh water flush smelling nice, prevent limescale, and to coat the bowl with a protective layer to make flushing more effective. You add a small dose of Thetford Aqua Rinse (Pink) into the top tank before filling it with water.
• Blue or Green Fluid (Bottom Tank): This is for the *waste* tank. This is the essential one. It breaks down waste and toilet paper and, most importantly, neutralises all odours. Aqua Kem Blue is the most powerful and popular.

My Step by Step Setup Guide

It looks complex, but it takes less than five minutes. Here is my process:

1. First, separate the top and bottom halves. There is usually a large clip or lever at the back.
2. Take the bottom (waste) tank. Find the large cap (usually at the end of a rotating spout) and add the correct dose of Blue chemical. The bottle will tell you how much, but it is usually about 150ml. I also add about a litre of water to cover the bottom.
3. Take the top (flush) tank. Find its cap and add the correct dose of Pink chemical (usually about 100ml). Then, fill this tank to the top with fresh water.
4. Clip the top half back onto the bottom half. Find the "blade" handle (a pull out handle) and make sure it is pushed all the way in. Your toilet is now ready to use.

How to Use It (Without Making a Mess)

This is the bit people worry about, but it is simple.

• Before you go: Pump a small amount of the pink flush water into the bowl. This helps everything... slide.
• The "Blade": This is the most important part. The blade is the sliding trap door between the bowl and the waste tank. You must pull this handle *open* before use.
• The Paper: You must use quick dissolving toilet paper. Regular paper is designed not to break down and it *will* clog your toilet. This stuff is designed to turn to mush, which is what you want.
• After: Flush with the pump, then firmly push the blade handle closed. This seals the waste tank and stops any odours from escaping.

How to Empty It (It's Not That Bad, I Promise)

This is everyone's biggest fear, but the chemicals do such a good job that it is a clean and simple process.

1. Make sure the blade is firmly closed. Detach the top tank and put it to one side.
2. Carry the bottom (waste) tank to the campsite's designated "Elsan Point" or "Chemical Disposal Point". Do not use a regular toilet.
3. Rotate the emptying spout outwards. Unscrew the cap.
4. Most toilets have an air release button. Hold this button down with your thumb while you tip the tank. This lets air in and stops the dreaded "glug glug" splashback.
5. Once empty, use the disposal point's hose to rinse the inside of the tank a couple of times.
6. That is it. Just add your new dose of blue chemical and water, and it is ready to be reconnected.

See? It is a simple process that makes any family camping trip much more comfortable. If you are ready to get one, you can see my full guide to the best portable toilets here.