Portable Sanitation
Portable Sanitation FAQs
I added the right amount of deodorizer. Why does it smell bad?
The most common reason your deodorizer isn’t performing as well is inadequate water, which leads to mounding. We recommend adding 5-8 gallons of water to ensure all waste and paper falls below the water line. Water is the vehicle that delivers the deodorizer to the waste.
Why is it that deodorizer looks more green than blue by the end of the week?
Urine changes the pH of the contents of your holding tank, which causes the dye to fade from dark blue to green. Heavy usage and hot weather makes this problem worse. When your customers see the green color, they believe the deodorizer has worn off, even though that’s not necessarily true. Walex recently created a new dye called DuraBlue, which better withstands these shifts in pH. DuraBlue retains its deep blue color through day seven. Like other Walex dye, it won’t stain or cause problems at waste treatment plants. Durablue is available in all Walex packets and liquids.
What’s better, liquid or packets?
It’s a matter of personal preference because there are pros and cons to each. Packets are easy to use because they’re mess-free and pre-portioned. Walex liquids are versatile because they’re available in more strengths and fragrances. Which product is more cost-effective also depends on usage. To learn more about which deodorizer best fits your needs, read our article about selecting a deodorizer.
My units have a bad odor even when they’re empty. How do I get rid of that?
Every time you empty the unit, a little bit of residual waste can remain on the tank walls. If you don’t scrub off this “sludge line,” over time, the waste will become caked to the tank walls and be very hard to remove. Walex makes a product called Commando that deep cleans these troublesome units. To use Commando, drop one packet in per 100 gallons of tank capacity and add enough water to fill the tank completely. The enzymes target and liquefy any solids so when you empty the tank 12 to 24 hours later, it’s good as new.
What fragrance should I get?
Walex offers a wide variety of fragrances, so it’s a matter of personal preference. We do recommend switching fragrances every few months because your brain can acclimate to smells. If you’re interested in trying different fragrances, call your account manager and ask for samples.
Do I need to mix the water and deodorizer in a bucket before emptying it into the tank?
No, you can add the packet or liquid directly into the holding tank. We recommend adding deodorizer before water so everything is better mixed together.
I use packs. Can I add two if I need extra odor control?
Many drivers who use regular Porta-Pak add two packs if extra odor control is needed. However, we recommend switching to Porta-Pak MAX, which is a more powerful packet designed for extreme conditions. Porta-Pak MAX is a super-concentrated formula with 50% more color, 50% more odor control, and double the fragrance of original Porta-Pak.
Is waste treated with Walex products accepted at all waste treatment plants?
Yes. Standards for accepted waste at treatment plants vary across the country, but we are not aware of any waste treatment plant that does not accept waste treated by Walex products. If you encounter any issues from waste treatment plants, please contact us.
Walex offers 5 different cleaners. Which one should I get?
Each Walex cleaner is designed for a specific purpose, so most PROs invest in at least 4 of the 5. Green Hornet lifts grease and dirt from equipment surfaces, making it easy to wipe away. Banish Graffiti Remover melts away graffiti and leaves a protective coating on equipment surfaces. Fragrance Spray Washdown Cleaner is a 2-in-1 product with soap and fragrance. You can dilute it as needed to clean the inside of a restroom or spritz a few sprays into the restroom to leave a long-lasting, elegant fragrance. The alkalinity of Urinal Cleaner targets scale and calcium build-up, a major source of urinal odor. Fab Lav is a lavender-scented all-purpose cleaner ideal for cleaning a variety of surfaces.
I’m thinking about adding restroom trailers to my portable restroom business. Are there any extra cleaning or deodorizing products I should invest in?
Yes. To offer a premium restroom trailer rental, we recommend ingesting in P-Trapper Waterless Urinal Odor Control, Commando Holding Tank Cleaner, and Ovation Air Freshener, if you don’t already have these products. For a full list of products to keep your restroom trailer fresh and clean, read our blog.
Definitions
Super-concentrate
Super-concentrate refers to a liquid deodorizer, such as PT-50 Supreme, that is extremely potent and should be diluted with water.
Biocides
Biocides are an odor-controlling ingredient in deodorizers. They control smells by killing the odor-causing bacteria.
Surfactants
Surfactants are a category of compounds that are, quite simply, plain old soap. In the presence of water, air, and microbes, materials that biodegrade are converted into elements typically found in nature.
Biodegradable
A material that can biodegrade is one that will break down in the environment. In the presence of water, air, and microbes, materials that biodegrade are converted into elements typically found in nature.
How to Keep Portable Restrooms from Smelling During Summer
Make these five changes to prevent odors when the weather heats up
Switch to a Hot-Weather Deodorizer Like Porta-Pak Max or PT-50 Supreme
Bacteria thrive in the summer heat, making odor control more challenging. To combat this, switch to a more concentrated deodorizer like Porta-Pak Max or PT-50 Supreme. Porta-Pak Max is the strongest drop-in deodorizer on the market, with 50% more color, 50% more odor control, and double the fragrance of the original Porta-Pak. PT-50 Supreme is the industry's most potent super-concentrate liquid deodorizer, requiring 1-2 ounces per service for weeklong odor control.
Add Extra Water to the Holding Tank
Often, the cause of holding tank odors is not a lack of deodorizer but insufficient water, and adding adequate water is even more crucial when it's hot due to increased evaporation. We always recommend adding 5 to 8 gallons of water per service, but PROs should add closer to 8 gallons during the summer. Water is critical for odor control because deodorizer can only treat the waste it can touch, and mounding—waste that rises above the water line—cannot be treated.
Supplement Deodorizer with a Fragrance Enhancer—Your One-Two Punch Against Odors!
A premium Walex deodorizer effectively prevents foul holding tank odors—a significant job for a single product! While controlling odors at their source is essential, adding a fragrance enhancer like Deo-Disc, Fragrance Spray Washdown Cleaner, or BRAVO Urinal Screen enhances the user experience even more. Adding an extra scent-boosting product ensures a noticeable, long-lasting fragrance and contributes to the overall perception of cleanliness and care. Furthermore, a urinal screen has the added benefit of reducing urinal splashing, another common odor source.
Use a Deodorizer with Dura-Blue
Dura-Blue is Walex's new, improved, non-staining dye that lasts longer in heavily used units. While the primary function of a dye like Dura-Blue is not odor control, it is a visual indication of the presence of a powerful deodorizer. The deep blue color that withstands the high traffic of the busy summer months not only gives the impression of a clean and odor-free unit but also helps mask visual signs of waste, which can be psychologically reassuring to both users and your customers.
Offer an Extra Service or an Extra Unit
During peak season, portable restroom usage can significantly increase, which might require more frequent servicing to maintain cleanliness and odor control. Providing an additional service or even adding extra units can be a proactive approach to managing increased demand. Offering these additional services can enhance customer satisfaction and contribute to a positive brand image, encouraging repeat business and referrals from happy customers.
By implementing these strategies, you can ensure your units remain fresh, functional, and customer-friendly throughout the challenging summer months.
Walex manufacturing is now 100% solar-powered
Walex is proud to announce that our manufacturing is now 100% solar-powered following a groundbreaking solar array installation. This initiative highlights our commitment to green energy and sets a new standard in the portable sanitation industry for sustainable business practices.
Director of Sales and Business Development, Corey Morton, said the project underscores two of Walex’s key values: constant innovation and a commitment to do what’s right.
“We’re a family-run business,” he said, “and our motto has always been to do the right thing—whether that’s for our staff, our customers, or the environment. We’re proud to lead the way in implementing sustainable practices and we see it as an investment in not only our future, but the future of our planet."
Comprehensive Environmental Initiative
Walex’s other ongoing sustainability initiatives include transitioning more of its products to recycle-ready packaging, switching to electric forklifts, and continuing to develop innovative product formulas that utilize environmentally-friendly ingredients without sacrificing performance.
Community and Environmental Benefit
By investing in solar energy, Walex not only advances its own sustainability goals but also supports broader community efforts toward energy conservation and environmental protection, reinforcing the company's role as a responsible and forward-thinking industry leader.
Sustainability Leadership
This project positions Walex as a leader in sustainability within the portable sanitation industry, underlining the company's dedication to environmental stewardship and its proactive approach to incorporating renewable energy solutions into its operations.
Limited-Time Spring Cleaning Bundle
Get your units ready for the busy season. Save when you bundle our most popular cleaning products.
Bundle includes:
One bottle of Chlorine Tabs
One 5gal Urinal Cleaner
One 5gal Green Hornet Cleaner/Degreaser
One 5gal Fab Lav Cleaner
One 5gal Banish Graffiti Remover
1 tub of Commando Holding Tank Cleaner
$675 value NOW $472.50!
Call 800-338-3155 to order
Freight not included in price. Offer available through May 31. Customer can purchase multiple bundles but no substitutions.
The 5 Essential Products New Portable Restroom Operators Need
Starting a portable restroom business is a venture that promises growth and opportunities, particularly in today's dynamic event and construction landscapes. However, newcomers to this industry often face the initial challenge of optimizing their startup budget, focusing on acquiring only the most essential products to ensure operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Understanding this, Walex presents a tailored selection of five products designed to meet the core needs of new PROs, ensuring a smooth kickstart to your business with cost-effective solutions.
Premium Deodorizer
Central to any portable restroom operation is deodorizer, which ensures an odor-free and hygienic environment for users. Walex offers both liquid and packet options, catering to various operator preferences. New PROs can benefit from the versatility of liquid deodorizers, which come in multiple strengths and fragrances, or the convenience of pre-portioned packets for ease of use and consistent dosing. Many factors play into deodorizer selection, but all Walex deodorizers use advanced odor control technology and the longest-lasting dye on the market.
Powerful Graffiti Remover
Combating graffiti is an inevitable battle for PROs. Banish Graffiti Remover is your best defense against unwanted scribbles and marks. This powerful cleaner effortlessly removes paint, markers, and other substances, restoring the restroom's appearance without damaging surfaces. Banish also helps prevent future graffiti by leaving a protective coating on treated surfaces. Its easy application and effectiveness make it a must-have for maintaining the visual appeal of your portable restrooms and keeping them inviting for users.
Versatile Cleaner
Cleanliness in portable restrooms extends beyond odor control. Walex offers five cleaners: Banish Graffiti Remover, Green Hornet Cleaner/Degreaser, Fragrance Spray Washdown Cleaner, Urinal Cleaner, and Fab Lav. Many PROs eventually invest in all five because each formula is designed to tackle a specific issue. A new PRO, however, should start with Green Hornet because it tackles the widest variety of cleaning jobs. The industrial-strength cleaner & degreaser easily removes everything from dirt to grease to stubborn stains. Its biodegradable formula ensures safety for the environment while delivering unmatched cleaning power. Whether used for deep cleaning or regular maintenance, Green Hornet ensures that surfaces are spotless, contributing to the overall hygiene and appeal of portable restrooms.
Elegant Fragrance Enhancer
An elegant fragrance enhancer adds an extra boost of freshness, significantly enhancing the atmosphere of portable restrooms and leaving a lasting positive impression on users. Walex's most popular fragrance enhancers are Deo-Disc and BRAVO Urinal Screens. Deo-Disc is a compact, powerful air freshener that can be strategically placed within the restroom to continuously combat odors, providing an additional layer of scent control. BRAVO Urinal Screens target two key issues: odor control and splashback. The patented design fits any urinal, maximizing drain flow and emitting an elegant, long-lasting fragrance. Especially for PROs just entering the market, choosing one of these fragrance enhancers offers an affordable way to gain an edge over the competition.
Hand Sanitizer
In today's world, providing hand sanitizing options is non-negotiable for ensuring user safety and promoting hygiene practices. Incorporating hand sanitizer stations or dispensers in and around portable restrooms encourages users to sanitize their hands, effectively reducing the spread of germs and enhancing overall public health. Walex offers a full product line of hand sanitizers, including alcohol and non-alcohol options in both foaming and gel formulas.
Starting a portable restroom business with a focus on essential investments can pave the way for future growth and success. By selecting these five core Walex products, new operators can assure their customers of a clean, pleasant, and hygienic portable restroom experience, thereby solidifying their reputation and operational foundation in the competitive portable restroom industry.
Introducing Dura-Blue, a dye that withstands heavy use and hot temperatures
When it comes to pleasing your portable restroom rental customers, perception is essential. Even if a unit remains odor-free between services, if a customer peaks into the holding tank and doesn't see that deep blue dye, they believe the deodorizer is gone.
The latest innovation from Walex is Dura-Blue, an enhanced non-staining color that will last longer in overused holding tanks where pH shifts are common. All Walex liquids and Paks now use Dura-Blue.
The addition of Dura-Blue does not affect the cost of Walex products, nor does it negatively impact the wastewater treatment plants.
Contact your account manager for more information.
John Marcucci - 910-443-1493
Ellis Hartley - 910-619-5599
Brian Bost - 910-200-1740
Brian Rooney - 910-859-4619
A comprehensive guide to choosing a deodorizer
Selecting the best deodorizer to use in your portable restroom or restroom trailer holding tank is crucial. You service your units regularly to create a superior impression, but deodorizer is the agent that works around the clock to preserve that environment. Keep reading to discover which deodorizer will set you apart from the competition.
Know your options
There are many types of deodorizer from which you can choose: liquid or pre-portioned drop-in, different chemistries (formaldehyde-based, formaldehyde-free, or natural), and various formula strengths. Many factors influence your decision: usage, climate, frequency of service, and even personal preference.
Traditional liquid or pre-portioned drop-in?
There are different benefits to liquid deodorizers and portion-control drop-ins, so choosing between them is often a matter of preference. The packets remove the guesswork from adding deodorizer because no measuring is required. And while containers like the Walex EZ-Squeeze Bottles allow greater accuracy when using liquids, you're still less likely to spill or overuse a drop-in packet.
One advantage of liquids, however, is the variety offered. Walex portion control drop-in packets are available in three strengths: Porta-Pak Max, Porta-Pak, and Porta-Pak Express, while Walex liquid deodorizer is available in nine varieties—three formaldehyde options and six formaldehyde-free choices. Liquids can also be made in any of Walex's 24 fragrances, whereas packets only come in certain fragrances.
Formaldehyde-free or Formaldehyde-based?
Liquid deodorizers are available in two chemistries: formaldehyde-based and formaldehyde-free. Walex's line of liquid deodorizers includes three formaldehyde-based products (PT-615, PT-600, and PT-60 Pre-Mix) and six formaldehyde-free products (PT-50 Supreme, Endure, Advantage, Contender, PT-500, and Pre-Mix).
In our industry's early days, formaldehyde was the main odor-eliminating ingredient in deodorizers. However, some states have since banned formaldehyde, so Walex's research and development team created equally effective formaldehyde-free deodorizers.
Formaldehyde-free products control odors for a longer period of time. If you tested the products side by side, formaldehyde would be more effective initially, emitting a powerful chemical odor. But because it is gas, it will evaporate after three to six days, depending on temperatures. The formaldehyde-free products continue providing odor control longer using the modern technology developed by Walex R&D chemists, and they’re safer to use.
What strength of product do you need?
The final decision you must make is the product concentration to order, which depends on your climate, usage, and frequency of service.
If you're in a hot climate or your units get heavy usage, the best drop-in is Porta-Pak MAX, a potent formula with 50% more dye, 50% more odor control, and double the fragrance of the original Porta-Pak. Your best liquid options are PT-50 Supreme, Endure, PT-615, or PT-600.
If you're in a warm climate or your units get moderate usage, choose Porta-Pak for your drop-in or Advantage or Contender for your liquid.
During the cold winter months, you could switch your drop-in to Porta-Pak Express, a smaller dose of formula. You can stick with Contender for your liquid or choose a ready-to-use product like PT-500.
Porta-Pak Express is also an economical option for outdoor events where units get heavy usage but are serviced daily.
When in doubt, opt for a more concentrated formula. The benefits of investing in odor control far outweigh the relatively small cost increases.
If you still have questions about which deodorizer best fits your needs, the odor control experts at Walex are here to help. Give us a call at 910-371-2242.
How do I get rid of the black tank pyramid?
A black tank pyramid refers to the buildup of waste and paper in your RV's black holding tank, and it can put a significant damper on your RV travels. Waste buildup fills your RV with foul odors and is a pain to remove—without the right products. Here's how you can prevent a pyramid from forming or eliminate one if it does.
Don't leave your black tank valve open when you're hooked up at a site.
If you allow your tank to drain gradually, the liquids will pass through while the solids build up in a solid pyramid. To thoroughly dump the contents of your tank, you need the assistance of gravity. Keep the valve closed until the tank is 2/3 full, and then dump it.
Use an enzyme-based deodorizer.
Enzymes digest waste and paper, so using a deodorizer with powerful enzymes will keep the contents of your black tank from solidifying. Walex's Bio-Pak is an enzyme-based formula contained in a rapid-dissolving water-soluble packet. When flushed down into the tank, the enzymes go to work immediately, breaking down buildup and deodorizing in the process.
Use an enzyme-based black tank cleaner.
If you suspect a waste pyramid has formed in your black holding tank, you need to use Commando. Commando's innovative formula is packed with enough enzymes to restore your black holding tank to good-as-new, no scrubbing or agitation required. Not only will it liquefy the waste and paper, but it will clean tank walls and sensors, restoring the accuracy of your sensors. Here's how to use it:
- Empty your tank, rinse out any chemical residue, close your dump valve, drop one Commando packet into the toilet, and flush
- Then fill your holding above your highest sensor or completely full.
- Leave it in for a minimum of 12 hours. Commando is formulated to work in as little as 12 to 24 hours for those in a hurry, but it will not hurt your tank to leave it in longer, several days, for more stubborn holding tank issues or clogs.
- Empty your tank. Rinse again. You can now add your deodorizer, refill with 1.25 gallons of water for every 10 gallons of holding tank capacity and continue using the toilet.
You can use Commando to destroy existing buildup or preventatively every three months to control buildup from forming.
Happy adventuring!
Restroom Trailer Product Checklist
Have you added luxury restroom trailer rentals to your business? Not only is it important to purchase the right trailer, but it's critical to use the right products to ensure your trailer creates a positive impression of your business.
Having the right products in your arsenal will make your restroom trailer look and smell brand new, boosting your brand image and elevating you over the competition.
P-Trapper: Waterless Urinal Odor Control
Trap seal liquid that immediately eliminates odors in waterless, no-flush urinals, providing long-term odor control in restroom trailers.
Bravo Urinal Screens: Fragrance Enhancer
Keeps urinal smelling fresh for up to 30 days with strong fragrance release and bacteria action that deodorizes & cleans urinal & drain.
Bio-Pak: Black Tank Deodorizer
Enzyme-based drop-in that deodorizes black tank and digests solids, preventing clogging and build-up. Eliminates spills.
Ovation: Fragrance Enhancer
Commercial-strength air fresheners that can be hung anywhere to fight odors for up to 30 days. Ideal for women’s side.
Porta-Pak: Black Tank Deodorizer
Best-selling drop-in packet that deodorizes black holding tank, eliminating spills and keeping restroom trailer smelling fresh.
Urinal Cleaner
Spray on urinal to remove calcium deposits, restoring trailer’s urinals to like-new condition and eliminating foul odors.
Commando: Black Tank Cleaner
Enzyme-based drop-in that cleans trailer’s black holding tank in 12-24 hours, no agitation required. Restores tank to like-new condition.
Banish: Graffiti Remover
Effectively removes markers, paint, pen, grease, tar, crayon, dirt and calcium build-up, improving trailer’s appearance.
Fab Lav: Cleaner
Multi-purpose cleaner with a pleasing lavender fragrance guarantees trailer interior looks and smells fresh and clean.
Grey Water Liquid: Deodorizer
Great for shower trailers; controls grey holding tank odors caused by soap scum, skin, saliva, dirt and lint.
How to clean your restroom trailer holding tank
Quick and easy restroom trailer holding tank cleaning method
Clean your restroom trailer holding tank without agitation or scrubbing
Urinal Screens Vs. Blocks
Both urinal blocks and urinal screens are effective urinal deodorizers. Choosing between them can be a matter of personal preference, so here's a rundown of both products.
Screens
- Last up to 30 days
- Emits a steady fragrance
- Patented shape and design fits in all urinal styles
- Maximizes drain flow and reduces splashing
- Available in 6 fragrance
- Environmentally-friendly
- Biodegradable
Blocks
- Lasts up to 7 days
- Activated by heat/usage
- Dissolves gradually with usage
- Environmentally-friendly
- Biodegradable
If you have any more questions about whether screens or blocks are right for you, give us a call at 910-371-2242.
Recognizing our hard-working team this Labor Day
Labor Day is an occasion for honoring the American worker. Walex is proud to have a team of more than 60 dedicated workers at our facility just outside of Wilmington, North Carolina.
Our diverse and talented staff spans multiple departments. We have Ph.D. chemists who ensure Walex is on the cutting edge of product development, experienced sales managers supported by a knowledgeable customer service staff, and a hardworking production team that fulfills orders accurately and efficiently.
We've come from humble beginnings—our father/son co-founders, Bob and Bill Williams, created the first Walex product in their kitchen four decades ago—but we've grown significantly. We are now the number one supplier for portable sanitation, waste treatment, and odor control products in commercial and consumer applications.
We develop, manufacture, and ship products globally to more than 80 countries. We have been a respected supplier to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Olympics in Beijing, Carnaval in Brazil, RVs in New Zealand, buses in Mexico, portable toilets at construction sites worldwide, merchant ships in Spain, movie sets in Canada, coffee fields in Colombia, World Cup soccer matches, and in the Panama Canal expansion project.
But we don't just want to celebrate our Walex workers; we want to honor the dedicated customers we serve. We might not be the most glamorous industry, but you all work hard and don't shy away from a tough job.
To you and every other American worker, thank you.