DIY Poop Tube: A Comprehensive Guide to Making Your Own

When nature calls during outdoor adventures, especially when a restroom is nowhere to be found, responsible waste management becomes paramount. While burying human waste in a cat hole is the most common method, there are situations where a more contained solution is necessary. This is where the humble “poop tube” comes into play. A poop tube is a portable, leak-proof container designed to hold solid human waste, ensuring you leave no trace behind. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of creating your own reliable poop tube, covering everything from material selection to construction and maintenance.

Why Use a Poop Tube?

Before diving into the DIY process, it’s important to understand why using a poop tube is beneficial, or even necessary, in certain environments. Here are some key reasons:

• Sensitive Environments: Many areas, especially high-alpine zones, alpine meadows, and arid regions, have fragile ecosystems where even properly buried waste can have lasting negative impacts. A poop tube allows you to carry out your waste without contaminating the soil or water sources.
• High-Traffic Areas: In popular camping and hiking locations, the sheer volume of human waste can overwhelm natural decomposition processes. Using a poop tube helps mitigate the impact of multiple users in one area.
• Pack It Out Regulations: Many protected areas, including national parks and wilderness areas, have strict “pack it out” regulations that mandate the removal of all human waste. A poop tube is the easiest way to comply with these rules.
• Snowy Conditions: It is difficult to dig a cat hole in snowy or frozen ground. A poop tube provides a practical solution.
• Personal Preference: Some individuals simply prefer the added sanitation and containment that a poop tube provides.

Materials You Will Need

The materials required for a DIY poop tube are readily available and relatively inexpensive. The most important factors are durability, leak-proofness, and ease of cleaning. Here is a detailed list:

• A Rigid Container:
  • Primary Container: This is the main body of your poop tube. Ideal options include:
    • PVC Pipe (4-6 inches in diameter): Durable, readily available, and easy to work with. Choose a length that suits your expected usage. 20-24 inches is often a good length for one or two people on a weekend trip.
    • Large Diameter Plastic Water Bottles/Jugs: These are a budget-friendly option. Ensure they are made of thick, durable plastic. 1-gallon or larger options are best.
    • Large Diameter Airtight Canisters: Food-grade plastic canisters with secure screw-on lids are suitable, providing they are sufficiently robust.
  • Secondary/Inner Container (Optional): Using a separate, smaller container inside the main container can make disposal easier. Options include:
    • Heavy Duty Zip-Lock Bags (Gallon or Larger): Line the main tube with a bag for easy removal.
    • Small, Sealable Plastic Buckets/Containers: Ensure the inner bucket fits comfortably within the main container.
• End Caps or Lids: You’ll need secure closures for both ends of the rigid container to prevent leaks and odors.
  • PVC End Caps (For PVC Pipe): These will typically fit snugly on the ends of the PVC pipe. Use PVC cement for a permanent seal if needed.
  • Original Bottle Lids (For Water Bottles/Jugs): Ensure the lid is in good condition and creates a tight seal.
  • Secure-Fitting Lids (For Canisters): Look for lids with a rubber or silicone gasket for an airtight seal.
• Saw or Cutter (For PVC Pipe): If you choose to use PVC pipe, you may need a saw or pipe cutter to cut it to the desired length.
• Sandpaper or File (Optional): To smooth any rough edges after cutting PVC pipe or other materials.
• Duct Tape or Waterproof Tape: To reinforce seals and create additional security if necessary.
• Disposal Bags (Biodegradable): Small biodegradable bags (like those for dog waste) to hold the solid waste within the inner container/tube.
• Toilet Paper or Wipes: Biodegradable toilet paper or wet wipes, to be placed in the waste bags.
• Hand Sanitizer: For proper hygiene before and after using the poop tube.
• Deodorizer (Optional): A small amount of deodorizer or kitty litter to control odor within the tube.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your Poop Tube

The exact construction process will vary slightly depending on the materials you choose. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide for using PVC pipe, which is a popular and robust option:

Method 1: Using PVC Pipe

1. Measure and Cut the PVC Pipe: Determine the desired length of your poop tube. A 20-24 inch section is generally suitable for a weekend trip. Mark the PVC pipe with a marker, and use a PVC cutter or saw to cut it to the desired length.
2. Smooth the Edges: Use sandpaper or a file to smooth any rough edges at the cut ends of the PVC pipe. This is important to prevent injury and to ensure a good fit with the end caps.
3. Prepare the End Caps: If you intend a permanent seal, ensure both the interior of the caps and the external edges of the pipe are completely clean and free of debris before applying PVC cement. For reusable lids, double check that they are in working order.
4. Assemble the Poop Tube:
   • Permanent Seal: Apply PVC cement to the inside of each end cap and the exterior of both ends of the PVC pipe. Quickly slide the end caps onto the pipe, ensuring a tight fit. Hold them in place for the duration specified by the cement instructions. Allow the cement to fully cure before use.
   • Reusable Caps: If using screw-on end caps, ensure they fit securely. The use of duct tape on top of the seals will increase the leak resistance of the tube.
5. Prepare the Inner Liner (Optional): If using an inner liner, insert a heavy-duty zip-lock bag or a small bucket/container into the main tube.
6. Final Inspection: Once the tube is assembled and the cement has cured (if applicable), check for leaks and ensure the seals are tight.

Method 2: Using a Large Plastic Water Bottle/Jug

1. Choose the Right Bottle: Opt for a thick, rigid plastic bottle or jug with a secure screw-on lid. Avoid flimsy bottles that could crack under pressure.
2. Clean the Bottle: Thoroughly clean the bottle with soap and water, and ensure it is completely dry.
3. Prepare the Inner Liner (Optional): If using an inner liner, insert a heavy-duty zip-lock bag into the bottle.
4. Secure the Lid: Make sure the screw-on lid fits tightly and is in good condition. Consider adding duct tape around the lid to ensure an airtight seal.
5. Final Inspection: Ensure there are no leaks and that the lid is secure.

Method 3: Using a Large Airtight Canister

1. Select a Suitable Canister: Choose a food-grade plastic canister with a secure screw-on or snap-on lid that has a rubber or silicone gasket for an airtight seal.
2. Clean the Canister: Wash the canister thoroughly with soap and water, and allow it to dry completely.
3. Prepare the Inner Liner (Optional): If desired, insert a heavy-duty zip-lock bag into the canister.
4. Verify the Lid: Ensure the lid closes securely and creates an airtight seal. Add duct tape if extra security is desired.
5. Final Inspection: Check the canister for any leaks and confirm that the lid is firmly sealed.

How to Use Your Poop Tube

Using a poop tube is straightforward, but it is important to be meticulous to ensure proper hygiene and minimal impact on the environment. Follow these guidelines:

1. Prepare Your Materials: Have your biodegradable bags, toilet paper/wipes, hand sanitizer, and deodorizer (if using) readily available before use.
2. Line the Inner Tube/Bag: If using an inner bag, open it up and ensure it’s positioned correctly inside the main tube.
3. Do Your Business: Squat over the open tube. It is a good idea to practice at home to minimize the risk of spills. Place all solid waste and toilet paper/wipes inside a biodegradable bag. It may be useful to keep a small container of sand, sawdust or kitty litter on hand for absorbing excess liquid.
4. Seal the Waste Bag: Tie off the biodegradable waste bag securely to contain the waste and odor.
5. Close the Tube: Securely close the main tube with its lid/end cap to create an airtight seal and prevent leaks.
6. Sanitize: Clean your hands thoroughly with hand sanitizer.
7. Dispose Properly: At an appropriate disposal site, carefully empty the tube and inner bag into a designated waste receptacle. If the container is reusable, wash the inside of the main container thoroughly with soap and hot water. Dispose of all used bags in trash receptacles.

Tips for Effective Poop Tube Use

• Practice at Home: Before heading out into the wilderness, practice using your poop tube in your backyard to familiarize yourself with the process.
• Proper Placement: When using the tube, position it to minimize spillage or contamination.
• Double Bag: Using a second bag inside the first can provide an additional barrier against leaks and odors.
• Odor Control: A small amount of deodorizer, such as kitty litter, baking soda, or activated charcoal, can help control odors. A few drops of essential oil, such as tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil can also help.
• Carry Extra Bags: Pack extra biodegradable bags to ensure you have enough for your trip.
• Label Your Tube: Labeling your poop tube clearly is very important to avoid accidental contamination or confusion with other tubes. Use a permanent marker to write “Poop Tube” on the outside of your container.
• Regular Cleaning: After each use, thoroughly wash out any reusable components of your poop tube with soap and hot water. Disinfect with a mild bleach solution or an alternative disinfecting solution, and allow all components to air dry before packing them away.
• Consider a Dedicated Storage Bag: Keep your poop tube in a dedicated waterproof bag or container during transport to further prevent accidental contamination of other gear.
• Avoid Overfilling: Do not overfill the tube. It is far better to carry two smaller tubes than a single, overflowing one.
• Store Properly: When not in use, store the poop tube in a secure location away from food and other essential items.
• Educate Others: Share your knowledge and encourage fellow outdoor enthusiasts to practice responsible waste management.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Leaks: If your poop tube leaks, inspect the seals and lids for damage. Consider using additional waterproof tape to reinforce them. Ensure all lids are screwed on tightly before each use.
• Odor: If odor becomes a problem, consider using a more effective deodorizer. Check the seals to ensure they are airtight. Clean the tube thoroughly after every use.
• Spillage: If spillage occurs, clean the affected area immediately. Practice positioning the tube correctly to minimize this risk.
• Capacity Issues: Plan your trips carefully and bring a sufficiently large tube, or bring two tubes for longer trips or larger parties.

Conclusion

Constructing a DIY poop tube is a relatively straightforward and cost-effective way to manage human waste responsibly while exploring the outdoors. By following the steps and instructions outlined in this guide, you can create a durable, leak-proof solution that minimizes your impact on the environment. Remember, responsible waste management is a crucial part of preserving the beauty and integrity of our natural spaces. By practicing Leave No Trace principles and carrying out your waste appropriately, you contribute to the health and well-being of our planet for future generations.