Keeping clean in times following a disaster is extremely important. Not only does it provide comfort in stressful situations, but it helps keep away disease and infection. Make sure your environment is bacteria free by having the appropriate sanitation supplies stored with your emergency supplies. You never know how long you may be without basic water and sanitation services so be prepared for the worse.
Find answers to the most common questions about emergency sanitation, from what's included in a portable toilet system and how many uses you'll get to waste disposal, odor control, and options for kids and those with mobility needs — because dignity and hygiene matter, even in an emergency.
Varies by kit. Most emergency toilet kits include 10 to 50 waste bags, each rated for one use (solid waste) or multiple uses (liquid-only). A 50-bag supply covers a family of 4 for 12 to 14 days at 1 use per person per day. Check the bag count on each product page.
Use Cleanwaste WAG Bag or equivalent gelling waste bags (typically included) that solidify liquid waste for safe disposal. Tie off used bags and store in a sealed outer container until municipal waste service resumes. Follow local health department guidance for extended outages. Never flush a gelling waste back down a toilet.'
No, not when used correctly. Quality emergency toilets with gelling powder and sealed bags are largely odor-free. Store sealed bags in a covered outer container to prevent pest attraction.
Yes. Emergency toilets work with standard toilet paper. Some kits include compressed toilet paper tablets to save space. For faster breakdown (septic or RV-style systems), RV-rated toilet paper is a good choice but not required.
Yes with the right kit. Seat-style portable toilets support most adults and are more accessible than bucket-only kits. For bariatric or limited-mobility users, select heavy-duty models rated to higher weights.
Yes. Kids can use adult-sized emergency toilets with a booster seat or ring. For very young children, a smaller kid-sized training toilet can be added to the family emergency kit. Supervise use and help with waste bag changes.
A typical emergency sanitation kit includes a portable toilet seat (or bucket with seat), 25 to 50 waste bags, gelling powder, deodorant packets, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, wipes, and a privacy shelter. Size depends on intended duration and household size.