The earliest portable toilets
The concept of a portable toilet dates back much further than most people realise. Archaeological discoveries suggest that some of the earliest examples date back to Ancient Egypt. Obviously nothing like the portable toilets of today, these early examples were simple in design, consisting of a wooden stool with an opening and a container placed underneath to collect waste.
Although basic by modern standards, these early solutions clearly show an understanding of the need for portable sanitation facilities, particularly in locations where permanent infrastructure was unavailable – much like today.
The rise of the chamber pot
As civilisations developed, far from becoming more complex or sophisticated, the design became even simpler and more straightforward. The stool was eventually dispensed of completely, leaving only the container itself, which became known as the chamber pot.
Used extensively throughout Ancient Greece, Rome and later Victorian Britain, chamber pots provided a practical indoor sanitation solution for centuries. But, they were far from ideal. Odour control was virtually non-existent, and disposal methods were often unpleasant and unhygienic.
The thunderbox
Wealthier 19th century households began to seek out more discreet and comfortable alternatives, and this demand led to the creation of the thunderbox, essentially a chamber pot inside a wooden cabinet.
The addition of the cabinet enabled the chamber pot to be moved from room to room, gave a higher degree of privacy and dignity to the user and also helped to contain any smells.
The ability to move the thunderbox brought it closer to the portable toilets we recognise today. The enclosure helped contain odours while providing users with greater privacy and dignity. Because it could be moved from room to room, it represented an important step towards the portable toilet systems we recognise today. The thunderbox embraced the concept we hold at the centre of our industry today – the importance of the user experience.
The birth of the modern portable toilet
Perhaps the singularly biggest breakthrough in the evolution of the portable toilet unit came during the 1940s in US shipyards.
Shipbuilders often worked considerable distances from permanent restroom facilities, resulting in lost productivity and unnecessary downtime when they needed a toilet break. To solve this problem, temporary toilets were introduced directly onto the ships under construction.
These early units were built from wood and incorporated small holding tanks. While functional, they were heavy, difficult to maintain and unsuitable for widespread commercial use. But, they did mark the beginning of the modern portable toilet industry that we know today.
George Harding and the plastic revolution
No discussion of portable toilet history would be complete without mentioning George Harding, arguably one of our industry's most influential innovators.
After working in manufacturing and government roles during the Second World War, Harding became involved in the fibreglass industry during the 1950s. Recognising the potential for portable sanitation, he developed fibreglass toilet units that were lighter than their wooden counterparts.
However, fibreglass had its own challenges - it was prone to cracking during transportation and absorbed unpleasant odours over time.
Determined to improve the design, Harding continued experimenting and eventually developed a portable toilet made entirely from polyethylene plastic. This innovation transformed the industry. Plastic units were lighter, more durable, easier to clean and significantly more practical for transport.
Fast forward to the 1970s and plastic portable toilets had become the industry standard and remain widely used across construction sites and outdoor events today.
How luxury toilet hire changed expectations
While standard portable toilets solved a practical problem, they did next to nothing to increase user comfort with a premium experience.
This was all set to change in the 1980s, with the introduction of the first luxury toilet trailers.
These larger units went further than the basic cubicle, offering multiple facilities within a spacious, purpose-built trailer. For the first time, event organisers could offer guests proper flushing toilets, running water, vanity areas, mirrors and improved lighting.
Luxury toilet trailers quickly became popular for weddings, corporate events, sporting occasions and VIP hospitality areas.
By this point, portable toilets did more than simply meet basic sanitation needs and were in fact offering comfort and convenience while delivering a professional impression.
Why operations managers choose luxury toilet hire today
Today, expectations are higher than ever. Whether managing a corporate event, private function, festival or temporary worksite, operations managers understand that high-quality facilities contribute directly to guest satisfaction and operational success.
At WET Hire, our modern luxury toilet hire offers numerous advantages, including:
• Premium interiors with contemporary finishes
• Flushing toilets and running water
• Enhanced hygiene standards
• Reduced queues through multiple cubicles
• Improved accessibility options
• A professional image for clients, guests and stakeholders
For high-profile events, luxury facilities are no longer considered a luxury—they are often an essential requirement.
Luxury toilet hire across Bath and the South West
At WET Hire, we provide premium luxury toilet hire solutions throughout Bath and the surrounding areas. Our luxury toilet trailers combine comfort, style and practicality, ensuring your guests enjoy facilities that reflect the quality of your event.
From weddings and corporate functions to sporting events and outdoor hospitality, our modern units deliver the reliability operations managers need alongside the high-end experience guests expect.
Portable toilets may have come a long way from Ancient Egyptian stools and Victorian thunderboxes, but the goal remains the same: providing convenient, comfortable sanitation wherever it's needed. Thanks to luxury toilet trailers, that experience has never been better.
Contact Us
To find out how we can support your next public event, email us at info@wethire.co.uk or call our friendly, family-run team on 01225 281018.
