Caravan Toilets – The Ultimate Guide
We’ve all thought it, we all flush at the thought of “Who’s going to empty the loo this time” (It certainly isn’t me)
One question we get asked a lot is “How do I use a chemical toilet? such as the Porta Potti 165″ well.. the honest answer – just like any other loo..
But a travel toilet is a little bit more, erm, involved.
To start – you’ve got chemicals
Pink (and sometimes – organic) chemicals are for your top tank. The job of the top chemicals is to lubricate, freshen up your tank and remove bad smells.
Blue/organic they’re for your bottom tank. You absolutely need this.
Blue chemicals are essential because they neutralise the bacteria, minimise smells, and help to dissolve your loo roll.. and anything else.
Organic chemicals are the bees knees in my opinion. Elsan organic chemicals are my personal favourite (I’m the author – hello!) in the case of most organic/environmentally friendly loo chems – they can go in the top and bottom tanks (But please read the instructions on the bottle – all loo chemicals are different)
Okay so – where do I put the chemicals?
Your top tank is your flush – that’s where the pink stuff or organic stuff goes. I can’t tell you the water:chemical ratio you will need – all loo chemicals are different – so please read the label – but you’ll more than likely need to dilute this stuff. You don’t even necessarily need to use chemicals in your top tank, but it’s a bit fresher if you do
The bottom tank – this is where all of your waste ends up. Use the Blue/Organic fluid in this tank, you’ll also probably will need to dilute this.
This is also the tank you’ll be needing to empty.
Whilst we’re here – let’s cover “how do I know when to empty the loo” and “how long in between emptying the toilet can we go”
This is a pretty simple one –
When you need to empty the loo – there’s two ways to tell.
You’ll be able to see by looking down and opening the hatch if the toilet’s full. A lot of people empty them before they’re full to make sure they’re not too heavy to carry. (In the case of the Porta Potti 165, the toilet holds around 21 litres – that’s a work out if you’re far from the chemical disposal point).
The second way to tell is by using the gauge on the side of the loo, but they don’t all have one – it will tell you just how full the loo is getting.
As for how long in-between empties can you go – that’s a bit of a personal matter, it all depends on how many people are using it and.. what they’re doing ?
“How do I drain my flush tank?”
The flush tank in most cases has a small drainage hose attached to it. Just simply open the nozzle and let it drain!
As I keep mentioning in this post – we can’t generalise. Some loo’s don’t have this. It’s not uncommon for a toilet manufacturer to recommend operating the flush until this tank is empty. If your’s doesn’t have a drainage hose and you’d like to know how to drain your top tank – feel free to contact us and we’ll do our best to find an answer for you.
“Wait a minute.. I’m supposed to empty my top tank?”
Wellll.. yeah, in-between adventures. If your toilet isn’t going to be used for a little while, pink fluid can cause a build up of algae in your tank. It’s not necessarily harmful to have algae in your tank – but it is a little unsightly – and eventually can block your tank.
“Can I use normal toilet cleaner in my caravan toilet?”
Seriously – don’t do it.
Household toilet cleaners are a big no no for your seals and plastic of your bowl – but luckily for you – there’s several options to keep the throne sparkling clean.
We recommend using some Thetford Aqua Rinse Spray! It’s septic tank safe – smells nice and fresh, and lubricates and protects the toilet seals.
If the chemical side isn’t 4 U we also think biodegradable Happy Bowl Liners are pretty rad. Click here to find out more about these!
Don’t forget to check out our Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for more!
Was this helpful? Let us know in the comments section!
Exploring Giant’s Causeway
I’ve been living under a hexagonal rock my whole life. Until recently, I’d never heard of Giant’s Causeway!
The Giant. The Myth. The Legend.
This historic landscape has an amazing legend behind it’s creation!
The columns are said to be the remains of a, you guessed it, causeway built by giants. Legend tells us that the Irish giant, Fionn Mac Cumhaill, was challenged to a fight by Scottish giant, Benandonner.
Fionn fearlessly accepted the challenge, and set to creating a causeway (that’s a bridge to you and me.. but that doesn’t sound as impressive) between Ireland and Scotland over the North Channel.
What Fionn didn’t realise when accepting the challenge, is that his foe was colossal in comparison to himself. Understandably, Fionn was very disconcerted by this, so hid away from Benandonner. (Honestly, I can’t blame him)
Oonagh, Fionn’s wife, oddly, disguises him as a baby.
Strangely, it worked! When Benandonner saw the enormous ‘baby’ he was terrified. If that was the size of the baby.. how big must it’s farther be?!
Benandonner fleed, destroying the causeway behind him as to not be followed by the ‘baby’s father’. Only leaving behind Hexagonal columns, at Giant’s Causeway, and Fingal’s Cave (Scotland)
So now you’re either thinking..
“That sounds amazing!” or “What on earth did I just read?”
So.. wanna learn more?
Located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. Giant’s Causeway is a historical landmark formed approximately 50 – 60 million years ago. Comprised of approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, formed by an ancient volcanic fissure eruption. Giant’s Causeway is a national trust site, and is one of the top Natural Wonders in the United Kingdom.
So.. Wanna pay it a visit?
Here’s the top three caravan sites near to Giant’s Causeway!
Don’t forget to check out our Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
How to use a Rinse Kit: A helpful illustrated guide
If you’ve been on the internet over the past few weeks, you’ll have heard us give so much praise to this amazing product. Honestly, it’s wonderful.
But there’s a question we get asked about this product pretty much every day..
“How does it work?”
“How long does the battery last?” (Spoiler.. there isn’t one!)
“Can I fill a RinseKit from my kitchen sink?”
“Can I fill it with hot water?”
“What’s the run time?”
“Do you know where I can buy one?” (Here)
Wondering what it is? It’s time to start wondering what it isn’t.
The RinseKit, and his sister, RinseKit Lux is, quite simply, a water carrier with a hose attachment. I know that probably doesn’t seem very interesting. But the way it works – Mind blowing!
The RinseKit operates exclusively by water pressure – No charging. No batteries. No plugging in. No pumping. No having to lift it up high. Kerfuffle free. Simply pop the hose connector onto an outdoor tap, and let the “balloon” inside do it’s thing. When the water is flowing into the RinseKit, it is held in a balloon type area. The water makes the inside expand, and this creates pressure. Think of it like a water balloon.
Still not sure? Here’s a little tutorial on how to fill and use. It’s so simple, even I could do it! (And that’s saying something)
Simply connect the blue connector (Don’t worry. It’s included) to your outdoor tap
And add the hose!
Time to fill? Turn the valve to the water icon. This valve is pretty much the on switch for your RinseKit. It lets the water in.. but also lets it out. So make sure you set it to off BEFORE you disconnect the hose from the tap.. otherwise you might have an unexpected shower!
Now its time to connect the water sprayer.. and you’re set!
Simply turn the valve to the water icon, and pull the trigger. Water will spray straight away!
A part of the beauty of the RinseKit, is it can stay on the floor. With most products similar to the RinseKit, they have to be held above your head and pumped to create water pressure. This guy can sit tight on the floor – it’s done the hard work for you
There are loads of different hose settings built in to your Rinsekit. Simply turn the end and watch them change!
If you’re using the RinseKit to wash your pride and joy, Don’t be like Robbie, Make sure your windows are wound up!
The standard RinseKit sprays for 4 minutes, and the RinseKit Lux sprays for up-to 8!
“You still haven’t answered my question.. Can I fill it from the kitchen sink?”
Unfortunately, no. There is not enough pressure in a kitchen tap alone to be able to pressurise your RinseKit alone. But if you have a bike pump and the Field Fill Kit – there’s no reason you wouldn’t be able to!
Hot water?
Of course you can! You can even fill with cold water and heat the water as you go using the Hot Rod Water Heater!
This makes your RinseKit perfect for alfresco showering! We would demonstrate this to you.. but Robbie (Our social media model) is a bit shy.
All of the products mentioned, including the RinseKit Lux in this post are available here from our website
Thanks for reading – Make sure you join us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!
The BEST free things to do in Worcestershire this Winter!
Everybody is feeling jolly. All anyone has said in the last 24 hours is “I cant believe that it’s November already?!” – how melancholy.
It can only mean one thing – Winter.
You clicked the post, so I won’t faff about too much with catchy introductions..
Here’s some fun, and free* things to do here in Worcestershire (Or very close by) this Winter!
Pop in to our showroom – of course!
Caravan Stuff 4 U is for life, not just for Summer! We’re open all year round, rain or shine!
You can be one of the first people to visit our BRAND NEW showroom, (That’s right. We’re expanding) – opening soon. But don’t worry, we’re only moving next door!
Worcester Art Gallery & Museum
I don’t know about you, but I adore art galleries and museums. There’s just something about the atmosphere.
There’s always loads so sink your teeth in to! There’s a free Museum open daily in Worcester! With Loads of amazing permanent attractions such as: The Chemist Shop, The mighty Sturgeon, and of course Albert the Albatross – we love that guy. Plus, ever changing exhibitions! If you’re visiting, or even if you live in Worcestershire, why don’t you drop by the Art Gallery & Museum!
Number 8
Number 8 is a gallery, cinema and theatre all in one place! There’s usually a free exhibition there too! We’re all super excited for the Cut, Fold, Bind exhibition coming up. This exhibition is all about discovering traditional and contemporary approaches to bookbinding utilising mixed media, textiles, drawings, painting and printing. We’ve checked with Number 8 – it’s free entry and you don’t need to book!
Click the link to find out more https://www.number8.org/events/cut-fold-bind-so-many-books-so-little-time/
Open Mic Nights
There are so many open mic nights all around Worcestershire!
One of our favourites is Enzo’s Open Mic at the Great Malvern Hotel every Wednesday!
The musicians who attend are top class in my opinion. If you’ve never heard the wonderful Bethany Roberts from Upton play – pop down to the next open mic night and change that!
(Did I mention.. It’s free)
Red House Glass Cone
Okay.. so technically.. it’s not been classed as a part of Worcestershire since 1972.. but it still made the list. The Red House Glass Cone was built in the 18th century, and continued to produce glass until 1936. One of only 4 glass cones left in the UK, the Red House is a very unusual place to visit. Inside of the cone is a museum and so much more!
Ping Pong at the Crown-gate shopping centre
Who doesn’t love ping pong?
Who doesn’t love FREE ping pong?
In the Worcester Crown-gate centre there are not one, not two, but three free ping pong tables (Try saying that a few times) for you to enjoy!
Shaun the Sheep Farmageddon glow trail at the Wyre Forrest
He’s Shaun the Sheep, he’s Shaun the Sheep. He even hangs about in the Wyre Forrest – Yeep!
To celebrate the launch of the new Aardman film, the Wyre Forrest has partnered with Shaun the Sheep to have a mystical glow trail! The Wyre Forrest is free to enjoy, however you will need the £3.50 Shaun the Sheep Farmageddon glow pack in order to follow the trail. Click here to find out more
The best stocking fillers 2019
CHRISTMAS. Don’t we all love it?
There’s nothing better than a day with all of your beloved family. Eating celebrations for breakfast; The Queen’s Speech, and the Gavin and Stacey Christmas special.
Weather you’re buying Christmas presents for the cat/dog, or your 2nd cousin (Twice removed). There’s always one person who we’re inevitably going to draw a blank on what they’ll love to see in their stocking. So I’ve comprised a list of.. Oh, c’mon, you’ve read the title!
5. Shower in a can
Shower in a can – the most innovative product I’ve ever met. This water based, vegan friendly, and no harsh chemical can of clouds is a sure winner this year at Christmas.
Shower in a Can has been created with the environment in mind. With up to 20 “showers” per can, it eliminates the need to carry wipes (and we all know how awful those are for the planet). We’ll be talking about this little fella in a bit more detail very soon – but here’s a few more reasons to love him!
- An easy to apply non-aerosol foam;
- Carries the Vegan Society Trademark;
- Provides upto 20 “showers” per Can;
- Comes in a fully recyclable aluminium can; and
- Is a compact, travel friendly 100ml size
4. Jigsaw
We’re not even going to make a pushy sales comment. This jigsaw sells itself! 500 pieces of pure family fun!
In fact, this exact jigsaw was so fun.. our marketing apprentice spent 8 hour’s piecing the darn thing together
3. Gift voucher
Did you know we do gift vouchers? So if you’re trying to buy for a caravan fanatic, and you’re not sure of the difference between Thetford and Elsan.. a gift card is the perfect solution!
They’re available in store starting today!
So pop and see our lovely team, because these always sell like hot cakes!
Caravan Stuff 4 U, Hanley Workshops, Hanley Swan, Worcestershire, WR8 0DX
2. Snazzy lamp
Who wouldn’t love a snazzy lamp for Christmas? These lovely low wattage Caravan lamps are available on our website in limited quantities. If you know somebody who’d love to unwrap this on the 25th, they’re available on our website or in store today!
1. Charitable donation
They always say – “Charity begins at home” So why not give the gift of kindness?
Did you know, animal charities across the world, have amazon wish-lists FULL of things they desperately need for their animals. For example –
https://www.happystaffie.co.uk/
So give a gift of kindness this year
Top 10 caravan life hacks!
We’ve all been in the situation where you open the overhead cupboards in the morning, and an avalanche of miscellaneous objects wallops you on the head.. Or maybe your shampoo has exploded across your toiletries bag? Or the worst has happened.. You’ve left your sleeping bags at home!
Trust me, here at Caravan Stuff 4 U, we’ve heard it all.
Have you shouted “So how can I beat the pandemonium?” at your screen yet? Don’t worry, we’re here to help. So here’s 10 hacks so you’ll never get caught out again!
10. Write a checklist
“Pah! I don’t need a checklist” I can hear you. I hear you loud and clear. But one day, you’ll be in the caravan in a snowy February and find you’ve forgotten the sleeping bags.
To give you a little bit of inspiration and an idea of what to put on a list, we’ve created this Pinterest board
9. Shampoo/conditioner bars
If you’ve never heard of these – stop what you’re doing. Open up a new tab and go get one!
Shampoo and conditioner bars are pretty self explanatory. Similar to a bar of soap, these specially formulated bars are game changing.
– They’re more Eco friendly than taking a travel sized shampoo/conditioner – and they weigh less than the full sized version.
– A super travel-friendly alternative – a solid bar can’t leak; plus they take up virtually no room at all!
(Added bonus – they last longer than a full size bottle of shampoo, too)
8. Pitch with good morning sun
I wish somebody had told me this sooner. This nifty little trick could mean you’ll never have to take down a damp awning/tent again. The lovely morning sun should help dry it out.. and with the cost of awnings these days – it’s essential to protect your investment!
Speaking of the price of awnings – some of our best sellers are in the sale, click to find out more!
7. Recycle TicTac boxes
Looking for an excuse to polish off a box of TicTacs? Heres one.
Spices are bulky, and lugging around a spice rack isn’t the most convenient when you’re trying to travel light. So why not clean out an old TicTac box and pop a spoonful of your favourite seasoning in? This one gets bonus points from me, because it’s reusing something that would otherwise be thrown out! To find out more, click here.
6. freeze a waterbottle
Nothing more refreshing than an ice cold bottle of water, to go along with your (Still chilled) picnic. Those blue freezer blocks are super bulky, ugly and lord knows what they’re filled with ??
So next time you go away – freeze some bottled water instead. It will keep your cooler chilly all day!
5. Roll clothes
Roll, roll, roll your clothes gently.. in the suitcase..
Rolling and go is one of the oldest tricks in the book – and there’s a reason for that. Square folding is a thing of the past. Use this funky technique to be able to see every item you’ve packed – without unpacking!
Seem complicated? Check out this video
4. Dryer sheet in dirty laundry
Which would you prefer?
“It’s day 4 of the camping trip. The onsite washing machine is out of order. Dirty socks are taking over. My nose is burning.”
“It’s day 4 of the camping trip. I’m a bit annoyed that the washing machine here is on the blink. Our dirty socks smell fresh as a daisy.”
Trust me on this. Get those dryer sheets. Here are some other nifty uses for dryer sheets
2. Pillbox to transport jewellery
This is another favourite of mine. I either lose my jewellery when I go away, or my favourite necklace I got for a long gone big birthday comes out of the suitcase in a giant knot (With it’s neighbour, the headphones)
But now I’ve learned about this snazzy hack, I can finally do a quick jewellery inventory AND keep it all tangle free!
And now for our #1 hack.. Take a frozen dinner with you!
After a long day in the car travelling, stopping off at every service station on the M6, wrestling with awning/tent poles, and your daily caffeine limit has long since been exceeded – do you really want to cook?
Made some chilli and put it in the freezer last week?
Plonk it in the cooler bag (Next to several bottles of frozen water, of course) and reheat when you arrive. It’s simple. But I promise you it will be the best chilli of your life.
Which is your favourite from this list?
Or do you have a better hack? Leave us a comment
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https://www.caravanstuff4u.co.uk/
5 Reasons you NEED this in your life!
Here at Caravan Stuff 4 U, we’ve been really excited about our new-in caravan lamps!
Earlier this week, I was having a little stroll through the show room (Located in Hanley Swan, Worcestershire) when these charming caravan lamps caught my eye!
- LED light
Using an LED light vs a regular bulb improves the energy efficiency by up to 80% – and that’s pretty amazing if you ask me. Plus, you’ll get up to 60,000 hours of light from this nifty little guy. That’s over 6 and a half years of constant use! (Not, of course that I recommend leaving a lamp on for 6 years… but I’ll save that for another blog post. - Low wattage
Yup, you heard me – 0.7 watts to be precise. No more tripping the on site electricity! - Lightweight
Who wants to be lugging around something heavy when they’re trying to go away for the weekend? Not me.
Despite being as light as a feather, once he’s on a flat surface, he’s surprisingly stable.. and has an added bonus of a cut out underneath for the cable to run through. There’s no doubt in my mind that whoever designed these knew what they were doing. - Resistant against damage
This, this is a MUST.
I have cupboards filled with melamine and a collection of plastic wine glasses – I learned the hard way that anything for the van needs to be resilient; and blimey. This lamp is one tough cookie! - Stays cool during use
Whats cooler? This lamp.. or this lamp?
They’re selling out so quickly – get your’s today!
Friday Favourite
Welcome, this is the section of our blog updated every… you guessed it – Friday.
Every week we’re gonna be having a look into Lee’s favourite item of the week!
“So, Lee. What’s your favourite item this week?”
“Hmm, I really like kettles. Every time I see a new kettle released, I get really excited.”
At this point in conversation, I wasn’t sure if Lee was trying to hint that he’d like me to go and make him another coffee. I think he could drink the stuff by the jerry can. (We sell those, by the way)
So, after an extremely riveting 5 minute conversation about kettles… I’ll spare you the details, but if you’d like to know more, please contact info@caravanstuff4u.co.uk
…The Kampa Cascade kettle, shone out above the rest.
A low wattage electric kettle ideal for use on camping and caravan sites.
Features:
- 1 Litre capacity – Enough for a few brews
- 1000W Element – For quicker boiling capability
- Stainless steel finish and construction – honestly, this thing is so sturdy, I think it could beat you in an arm wrestle
- Concealed element – Safety first
- 360° cordless – It’s just a bit more convenient like that.
With a 5⭐ rating on our website, its worth a try.
I’ll be back next week with another product feature.
Address: Unit 12, Workshops Hanley, Hanley Swan, Worcester WR8 0DX
Phone: 01684 311000
Website: https://www.caravanstuff4u.co.uk/