Everyone happens to be traveling or stuck in a tent camping somewhere and not having a bathroom nearby. And when you have to go, well, you have to go! However, if you have a bottle available, you also have the solution to your problem. It will probably seem complicated to use, but with the right approach it is much easier than you think. This article discusses some maneuvers to perform to free the bladder without making a mess.
Steps
Part 1 of 8: Choose a large bottle with a wide mouth
Step 1. You don't have to run out of space while urinating
Although the amount varies from person to person, typically around 500ml of urine is excreted at a time. The last thing you want is for it to overflow from the container, so make sure you choose a bottle that is large enough. Get one with a wide mouth to avoid making a mess. For example, sports drink bottles, like that of the Gatorade, have a wider opening than regular water bottles.
- If you use the bottle of a consumed drink, the label often says how much liquid it can hold.
- It is more difficult to center the opening when the bottle is small.
- Forget about glass bottles, as they usually have very narrow necks. Also avoid cans, as they have sharp edges and you risk cutting yourself, which is definitely not desirable.
Part 2 of 8: Move the bottle inlet closer to the body
Step 1. Facilitate aiming to avoid a disaster
When you're ready, find a position that allows you to hold the bottle opening close to your body. If you are a man, you can get on your knees, while if you are a woman, squat, especially in a confined space, such as a car or a tent.
- If you are driving, pull the car over so you can empty your bladder safely. Don't do this while you are behind the wheel, otherwise urine could drip all over the place or worse, you risk having an accident.
- Also consider sitting in the back seat for more room to move around with the bottle.
Part 3 of 8: Use a urine funnel to direct the flow into the bottle
Step 1. It can be especially useful for women
There are several models designed for this purpose. If you're concerned about getting wet anywhere or missing the bottle opening, use a portable urinal to direct the flow directly into the bottle. Make sure you clean it when you're done!
- You can buy it on the Internet or at a pharmacy.
- In an emergency, you can take a sheet of paper and make a cone that acts as a funnel.
Part 4 of 8: Tilt the bottle slightly down while urinating
Step 1. This position helps you prevent splashes and spills
Bring the bottle close to your body and slowly start freeing yourself, making sure the urine gets inside. Hold it so that the bottom is tilted towards the ground. In this way it will not fill up too quickly, risking to overflow and smudge everywhere.
Part 5 of 8: Close the bottle when done
Step 1. Keep it tightly closed until you have a chance to throw it away
Once finished, quickly close it with the lid to avoid spreading the smell of urine. Set it aside until you can dispose of it properly.
If the lid is missing or you don't want to keep it, empty it somewhere, for example on the roadside, but don't pollute it by leaving it where it happens
Part 6 of 8: Wash your hands
Step 1. Reduce the transmission of germs that can cause infections
There is a reason why it is important to wash your hands after going to the bathroom: to eliminate the risk of spreading pathogenic germs. Use a hand sanitizer or sanitizing wipe to clean them when you're done.
If you have the option, use soap and water
Part 7 of 8: Mark the bottle so as not to confuse it
Step 1. Avoid mistakes
Take a marker and make an identifying mark on the bottle, such as an "X". You could also write: "do not drink". Mark it clearly so that no one uses it or accidentally drinks the content.
For safety you can also hide it so that no one sees it
Part 8 of 8: Dispose of it properly
Step 1. Throw it in a garbage can to save the environment
Leaving a bottle full of urine on the side of the road is not only disgusting, but in many places it is even illegal and you risk a hefty fine. Wait until you find a bin or garbage can to dispose of it properly.
