Choosing the right deodorizer for your portable restroom fleet can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options on the market. Liquids, packets, tablets, different formulas, strength levels, fragrances… where do you even start?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to confidently choose the best deodorizer for your portable restroom business.
I’m Cody Boyd, and my family has been innovating and manufacturing portable toilet deodorizers for over 59 years at J&J Portable Sanitation Products. We’ve worked with operators in every climate, market, and service model imaginable. In our experience we’ve learned that the right deodorizer choice almost always comes down to a few key decisions.
Below, we’ll break down the three choices every operator must make when deciding which deodorizer is the best option for their business. Plus, a fourth bonus option that’s exclusive to J&J’s products.
The 4 Choices That Determine the Best Deodorizer for Your Business
Before selecting a product, you’ll need to answer these questions:
- Bulk Liquid or pre-portioned drop-ins?
- Which formula is right for your operation?
- What strength level and price point make sense?
- (Bonus) Which proprietary fragrance should you use?
Let’s break each one down.
Choice #1: Liquid Deodorizers vs. Pre-Portioned Drop-Ins
Both liquid deodorizers and pre-portioned drop-ins are proven, effective odor-control solutions. The best choice for your business often depends on your workflow, service style, and how much control you want over dosage amount per service.
Pre-Portioned Drop-In Packets & Tablets
Drop-in packets and tablets are designed for simplicity and consistency.
Because they are pre-measured, there is no guesswork involved. You simply drop one into the tank, add five to seven gallons of water, and you are done. This helps eliminate spills, overuse, and wasted product, making them a popular choice for operators who want fast and consistent servicing.
Best for:
- Reducing mess and product waste
- Consistent dosing on every service
- Consistent cost per service
Liquid Deodorizers
Liquid deodorizers offer maximum flexibility.
With liquids, operators can adjust dosage based on temperature, usage level, event type, or customer expectations. Liquids also come in a wider range of formulas and fragrance options, making them ideal for operators who want more control over performance and scent.
Best for:
- Custom dosing per service
- Cost per service can be cheaper (when drivers are trained on how much to use each service)
- Operators who want a wider variety of fragrances available
Bottom line:
This decision often comes down to workflow preference and how much control you want over cost per service and dosage per service in your odor-control program.
Choice #2: Choosing the Right Deodorizer Formula
Once you’ve decided between liquid or pre-portioned drop-ins, the next step is choosing the right chemistry.
We’ll start with liquid formulas, then move into pre-portioned technologies.
Liquid Deodorizer Formulas
Liquid deodorizers generally fall into two chemistry categories:
Formaldehyde-Based Liquids
Formaldehyde products were widely used in the early days of the industry because they provide strong, immediate odor suppression. However, due to regulatory restrictions and safety considerations, many operators today prefer alternatives.
At J&J, our formaldehyde option is Destroyer Liquid, designed for markets where formaldehyde is still permitted.
Non-Formaldehyde Liquids
Non-formaldehyde deodorizers use modern odor-neutralizing technology to deliver long-lasting odor control without harsh fumes.
While formaldehyde-based products may provide a strong initial impact, they can dissipate more quickly, especially in warm conditions. Formaldehyde free formulas continue working over time and are generally safer for technicians and end users.
Our non-formaldehyde solution is the Truex Liquid Power Series, also available in our popular Truex squeeze bottle, which provides a super concentrated liquid deodorizer in a portion-control squeeze bottle.
Pre-Portioned Drop-In Technologies
At J&J, we offer three pre-portioned drop-in technologies, each engineered for specific performance needs.
Truex Power Packets
Our newest packet technology and top-tier odor control option in the pre-portioned lineup. These water-soluble packets deliver long-lasting fragrance, deep blue color, and premium odor control.
Propaxx Packets
Our original packet formula, trusted by operators for years. Propaxx packets are water-soluble, feature a self-mixing agent, and provide a strong dye profile.
EverPro Elite Tablets
Effervescent, self-mixing tablets designed for long-lasting odor control, fragrance, and deep blue color.
Each tablet is fully wrapped in dissolvable film, allowing them to be handled with wet hands without popping. They dissolve effectively in brine, making them an ideal choice for cold-weather applications.
If you’re unsure which formula fits your operation, our customer service team is always available to help.
📞 Call us at 1-800-345-3303 or 706-743-1900 to discuss your options.
Choice #3: Strength Level & Price Point
Deodorizer strength is just as important as format and chemistry. The right concentration depends on climate, usage, and service frequency.
High-Strength Formulas
Best for:
- Hot climates
- Heavy usage
- High-traffic events
These formulas provide enhanced odor control, stronger fragrance, and higher dye levels to maintain performance between services.
Mid-Strength Formulas
Best for:
- Moderate climates
- Average daily usage
- Standard service schedules
They offer reliable performance without overusing product.
Lower-Dose or Ready-to-Use Options
Best for:
- Cold weather
- Daily service routes
These are cost-effective solutions that still deliver dependable odor control when conditions allow.
Pro tip:
When in doubt, choosing a slightly more concentrated formula usually pays off. The incremental cost is minimal compared to improved odor control and customer satisfaction.
Each J&J product is available in multiple strength levels and price points. Once you’ve chosen your product type and formula, factor in your climate and service schedule to select the best option using the strengths laid out on our website or product catalog.
Bonus Choice #4: J&J’s Proprietary Fragrances (Exclusive)
This final choice is exclusive to J&J products.
We offer the widest range of proprietary fragrances in the industry that are manufactured in-house at our facility. I recommend sampling some of our popular fragrances and Rotating fragrances across future orders helps prevent customer fragrance fatigue and keeps your units smelling consistently fresh.
Need Help Choosing? We’ve Got You Covered
Every portable restroom operation is different. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
If you’re unsure which deodorizer is right for your fleet, climate, or service schedule, our odor-control experts are here to help. Use the quote form linked below, and we’ll connect you with a specialist in your region who can recommend the perfect solution for your business. You can also call us at 1-800-345-3303 or 706-743-1900
👉 Request a quote today and let us help you choose with confidence.
https://jjportable.com/requestquote/