Is Throne a porta-potty or a bathroom?

Kind of both! Thrones are portable and can be placed anywhere like porta-potties, but that’s about where the similarity stops. We’ve designed Thrones to be a really nice bathroom that feels like you are indoors and have a suite of smart sensor inform service operations to ensure Thrones stay sparkling. It has porcelain fixtures and a flushing toilet. It’s also a totally touchless experience -- you can enter, exit, flush and wash your hands all without touching a single surface!

How do people access a Throne?

Throne offers a completely touchless experience and can be accessed in two primary ways:

1) Scan a Throne QR Code:

• Walk up to a Throne and scan a QR code

• Hit “send” on the pre-populated text message

• The door will open

2) Send a Text Message:

• Text “Throne” to the number on the unit

• Respond with a code provided on the unit

• The door will open

3) Via the Throne Mobile App:

• Find a Throne near you on the map

• Select and press the open button that appears on the app

• The door will open

4) Coming Soon! Tap-to-Enter:

We are working on a completely phoneless entry method that still maintains accountability. Users that have been issued a tap-to-enter Throne card by a partnering service provider will be able to enter just just as easily as getting on a bus or passing through a Metro turnstile.

Can people access the Throne without a smartphone?

Yes. A Throne can be accessed via text message using a basic phone. We are also working on a completely phoneless entry method (see above).

Why does Throne ask for a cleanliness rating?

Each time someone uses a Throne we ask for a cleanliness rating. Tell us what you think… really! We use this data to inform our cleaning schedules as well as clean Thrones on demand. If there is ever a real mess, we will shut down the Throne so no one else has to see it and send a cleaner out immediately.

How are Thrones serviced?

Every Throne has a suite of smart sensors that informs Throne’s service operations about many things, including fresh water levels and pumping requirements. Thrones are pumped and refilled with fresh water similarly to other portable restrooms, with a pump truck and fresh water tank before they run out.

Who services, cleans and maintains Thrones?

Throne’s local operations team monitors, services and maintains Thrones as part of the standard monthly rental agreement. Cleaning may be taken on by customers on some plans.

How does Throne stay smelling so good?

Magic! ...just kidding. There are a few reasons. First, Throne’s plumbing is a lot like a typical home or office bathroom that uses water and a P-trap pipe to seal out smells once flushed away. Additionally, Throne’s robust ventilation system turns over the air between users, removing much of the gases that might be lurking around in a typical toilet. 

What is the DC Public Restroom Pilot Program?

The District of Columbia and Throne are working together to expand access to public restrooms. To learn more about the pilot and Throne please read the pilot one-pager that includes a link to a survey where we hope you will send us your questions and feedback.