The Pool Noodle Hack For A Quick And Easy Camping Toilet

Going to the bathroom is a vastly different animal when camping. Among various methods for outdoor toilet usage, the pool noodle solution is comfortable, efficient, and budget-friendly. Many campers swear by this DIY porta-potty, which takes little time to build. You'll need to gather some basic supplies to make this toilet: a 5-gallon bucket, several garbage bags, a toilet paper roll, a pocket knife, a tape measure, a drill, a 3/16" drill bit, and, of course, a pool noodle.

An account called Rated Red shared step-by-step instructions in a YouTube video. To get started, pull out the bucket handle end so it's no longer hooked to its hole. The instructor then explains, "Go about four fingers out from the first hole, drill you a new hole with a 3/16" drill bit," being careful not to drill a hole through the inside of the bucket. Afterward, measure three feet of the pool noodle, cutting off the excess. Then, cut a slight central split down the noodle.

Now, it's time for assembly. To create a toilet paper holder, put the roll through the bucket handle and insert the handle end into the new hole. After covering the bottom of the bucket with a few garbage bags, secure your main garbage bag like you would with a trash can. Lastly, wrap your pool noodle "seat cushion" around the rim. Voilà!

You'll want to remember some essentials when using your pool noodle toilet. Proper waste disposal, one of the seven Leave No Trace principles, is vital for environmental protection. Aside from packing out garbage and leaving the area clean, check if your chosen campsite has specific human waste regulations. In addition, good personal hygiene is crucial, as unclean hands could increase your risk of contracting an intestinal illness or respiratory infection. Always use soap and water or hand sanitizer gel after relieving yourself. Be sure to dry your hands with a designated bathroom towel or bandana.

You may also wonder how to reduce unpleasant smells from toilet waste. Deodorizers, baking soda, or coffee beans can all neutralize odors from the bucket's garbage bags. While bathroom trips in the woods will never be luxurious, this DIY pool noodle toilet is one item you'll want for a quick and easy camping retreat. Are you looking for other creative camping solutions? Keep your tent safe with this simple pool noodle hack.