RV/Marine
Can I use Porta-Pak or Bio-Pak in my yacht's holding tank?
Keeping your yacht's toilet clean and odor-free
If you own a sailboat, yacht, or other vessel that has a toilet and you want to prevent or eliminate unpleasant odors, Walex has the solution.
You can use either Bio-Pak or Porta-Pak in your boat's holding tank. Walex's RV holding tank deodorizers are also designed for marine use.
Walex's R&D department recently tested Porta-Pak and Bio-Pak in saltwater since some yacht owners use seawater to flush their toilets. We found only a slight slowdown in enzyme digestion in Bio-Pak, and it still dissolved the toilet paper.
Usage of drop-in deodorizers is the same in RV toilets and yacht toilets. After dumping, start with one packet of product and 1.25 gallons of water for every 10 gallons of holding tank. Five gallons of water will let the waste and paper fall below the waterline, allowing the product to go to work controlling odors.
Happy Adventuring!
Traveling in an RV with pets? Here are two products that will make your trip more comfortable.
Get rid of smells from pets, mildew and garbage with Walex's odor eliminators
In the past year, many people have discovered the excitement and freedom of traveling by RV. If you are one of those new RV owners and have pets that you want to take on your travels, don’t worry! Plenty of RVers travel with dogs of all sizes, cats, and even bunnies.
Many people know what items to bring to ensure that their pet is comfortable on the road. But it would be best if you also considered your comfort when living in tight quarters with animals, and that means eradicating the occasional furball, dirty pawprint, and odor. Walex is the expert in odor control, and we have two products that animal owners always recommend!
Odor Absorber
Packing at least one Walex Odor Absorber in your RV is an easy decision. It is a gel-infused charcoal product that destroys odor molecules rather than masking them with fragrance. It is easy to use; simply peel back the top, and it goes to work instantly, neutralizing odors in the air and creating a bright, fresh-smelling space. One Odor Absorber can freshen a 300 square foot space for as long as 60 days, so you can leave it in your RV between trips to avoid those stale storage smells. Odor Absorber is non-toxic, biodegradable, and environmentally safe.
Assure Odor Eliminator Spray
Assure is another odor-destroying product that contains natural essential oils. We package the fresh-smelling liquid product in a spray bottle so you can quickly spritz seat cushions or rugs as needed. Assure eliminates odor molecules on contact, whether in the air or fabric. We designed it to fight the most challenging pet, trash, and bathroom odors, but it is also great for eliminating smoke, mold, and mildew. It is non-toxic, environmentally friendly, and safe for use around dogs and cats. Just a little bit of this product goes a long way in odor control.
You can find both of these products on the shelf at your local RV dealer, next to the Walex holding tank deodorizers. We hope both you and your furry friends enjoy your next RV trip! Happy Adventuring from the Walex crew.
How Often Should You Add Deodorizer to Your RV Black Tank?
How Often Should You Add Deodorizer to Your RV Black Tank?
Quick Answer: Most RV owners should add one drop-in deodorizer packet every time they dump their tank—typically every 5–7 days for two people in moderate weather. Always add treatment immediately after emptying and refilling the tank.
How Long Does One Bag of RV Deodorizer Last?
Usage depends on how many people are using the RV and how frequently the tank is dumped. As a general guideline:
- Two people in moderate temperatures: 1 packet every 5–7 days
- Higher usage or warmer climates: possibly more frequent treatment
- Lower usage: slightly longer intervals
If a bag contains 10 packets, it typically lasts about 5–10 weeks depending on usage.
When Is the Best Time to Add RV Tank Deodorizer?
The ideal time to add a new packet is immediately after dumping your black tank. Waiting until the tank reaches about 2/3 full before dumping ensures strong flow, which helps remove solids more effectively.
For enzyme-based treatments like Bio-Pak, allowing the tank to reach 2/3 full gives enzymes more time to liquefy waste and paper for easier dumping.
How Much Water Should You Add After Dumping?
Water is critical for odor control and proper digestion.
Recommended starting point:
- 1.25 gallons of water per 10 gallons of tank capacity
For a 40-gallon tank, that equals about 5 gallons of water before use.
Proper water levels allow waste and paper to sink below the waterline, where treatment works most effectively. Insufficient water can lead to hardened buildup (often called a pyramid plug) and persistent odors.
Why Sensor Accuracy Affects Odor Control
Knowing when your tank is 2/3 full depends on functioning sensors. If your sensors give false readings, you may dump too early or too late, which can affect odor control and tank health.
If sensors become inaccurate, use a deep-clean treatment like Commando to remove residue from tank walls and sensor probes.
How to Restore Sensor Function
- Empty the tank.
- Add one Commando packet.
- Fill the tank above sensor level.
- Let sit for 12–24 hours (longer if needed).
- Dump and rinse.
This process helps liquefy residual buildup, lubricate valves, and restore accurate readings.
Best Practices for Odor-Free RV Travel
- Dump at 2/3 full
- Add deodorizer immediately after dumping
- Use adequate water
- Monitor sensors regularly
- Perform periodic deep cleanings
Bottom Line: Consistent treatment, proper water levels, and accurate sensors are the keys to keeping your RV toilet odor-free.
Happy Adventuring!
Will my RV holding tanks freeze?
How to prevent your RV holding tank and pipes from freezing
If you're spending the night in a cold climate—where the temperature will drop below 32 degrees—you might worry that your RV tanks and pipes will freeze. If you take a few precautions and understand the capabilities of your RV, you should be fine. Keep reading for helpful tips.
Keep your lines and valves warm.
The parts of your RV plumbing that are most vulnerable to freezing are the lines and valves rather than the holding tanks. In frigid temperatures, these can freeze and crack, causing costly repairs. In some RVs, the pipes are more exposed, while in other RVs, the propane furnace pumps heat around the tanks.
Drain the tanks and pipes and add RV antifreeze.
If the temperature drops down into the teens, you'll want to add RV antifreeze to the pipes to keep them from freezing and cracking. First, drain the tanks and lines to ensure nothing interferes with the action of the antifreeze. Then, dump a gallon of RV antifreeze down the sink and toilet drains.
RV antifreeze is very different from automotive antifreeze; the active ingredient is propylene glycol, which raises the freezing point of water. Propylene glycol is non-toxic. When temperatures rise, and you resume use of your holding tanks, you can also continue using holding tank deodorizers such as Bio-Pak or Porta-Pak.
Planning Your First RV Trip? Read These Tips Before You Hit the Road.
First RV Trip Checklist: What to Do Before You Hit the Road
Quick Answer: Before your first RV trip, secure all interior and exterior items, understand local dumping and camping regulations, and pack the right holding tank treatments to prevent odors and system issues.
Why Preparation Matters for New RV Owners
The RV lifestyle continues to grow as more travelers seek flexibility and remote-friendly adventures. But excitement can lead to overlooked details. A short pre-trip checklist helps prevent mechanical issues, spills, odors, and regulatory headaches once you’re on the road.
1. Secure Everything Before Driving
Before pulling out of your campsite or driveway, take 10 minutes to walk around and through your RV.
Exterior Checklist
- Retract awnings and steps
- Secure hoses and power cords
- Close and lock storage compartments
- Check that slides are fully retracted
Interior Checklist
- Latch cabinet doors
- Secure loose appliances
- Stow folding chairs and tables
- Clear countertops
Even minor loose items can shift suddenly when braking.
2. Understand Dumping and Camping Regulations
Before traveling, confirm where you can legally empty your black and grey holding tanks. Regulations vary by state and campground. Some locations have rules based on the type of holding tank treatments you use.
If you plan to:
- Boondock (camp without hookups)
- Stay overnight in parking lots
- Dump into a septic system
Make sure you understand local rules in advance. First-time RVers may want campground experience before attempting extended off-grid stays.
3. Pack the Right Holding Tank Treatments
Holding tank deodorizers are essential for preventing odors and keeping your system functioning properly. Without proper treatment, waste and paper can accumulate quickly, leading to clogs or unpleasant smells.
Many RV owners prefer pre-portioned, mess-free drop-in packets such as:
- Bio-Pak – A natural enzyme formula that digests waste and paper.
- Porta-Pak – A performance-driven formula designed for strong odor defense.
For grey tanks (which collect water from sinks and showers), use a treatment specifically designed to break down grease and food particles, such as Elemonate.
Bonus Tips for a Smooth First Trip
- Bring extra disposable gloves for dumping
- Use plenty of water with each flush
- Dump when your tank is about 2/3 full
- Keep a dedicated hose for tank rinsing
- Double-check tire pressure before departure
Final Thoughts
Your first RV adventure should be memorable for the scenery—not unexpected issues. With proper preparation, knowledge of regulations, and the right tank maintenance products, you can focus on enjoying the journey.
Happy Adventuring!
Bio-Pak: Tough on Odors, Easy on the Planet
Why Eco-Friendly RV Tank Treatments Don’t Sacrifice Performance
Quick Answer: Modern natural enzyme RV tank treatments can deliver powerful odor control, effective waste digestion, and septic compatibility—without harsh biocides or formaldehyde. Today’s eco-friendly formulas are engineered for both performance and environmental responsibility.
Do Eco-Friendly RV Tank Treatments Actually Work?
There’s a common misconception that environmentally responsible products are less effective. In reality, advanced enzyme-based formulas are scientifically engineered to break down waste and control odors efficiently—without relying on aggressive odor-suppression chemistry.
Products like Bio-Pak use natural enzymes to accelerate the digestion of organic waste and toilet paper inside the holding tank. This supports smoother dumping and helps prevent buildup on tank walls and sensors.
How Do Natural Enzyme Tank Treatments Work?
Enzymes are naturally occurring biological catalysts that speed up the breakdown of organic material. In RV holding tanks, enzyme formulas help:
- Digest waste and toilet paper
- Reduce odor at the source
- Prevent pyramid buildup
- Maintain cleaner tank walls
- Support accurate sensor readings
Because the formula promotes digestion instead of suppressing bacterial activity, it helps maintain a healthier tank environment.
Are Enzyme-Based Tank Treatments Septic Safe?
Yes. Enzyme-based treatments are generally compatible with septic systems because they do not rely on biocides that disrupt beneficial bacteria. This makes them a responsible choice for RV owners who occasionally dump into a home septic system.
Do Eco-Friendly RV Treatments Comply with Emerging Regulations?
Some states have begun restricting certain ingredients historically used in holding tank deodorizers. Biodegradable, enzyme-based formulas that are free from formaldehyde and biocides align with these evolving environmental standards.
Choosing a compliant product today helps RV dealers and owners stay ahead of regulatory changes.
What Makes Drop-In Tank Treatments Convenient?
Pre-measured, water-soluble packets eliminate the need to measure liquids. Each packet is portion-controlled to treat a standard holding tank (typically up to 40 gallons), making maintenance simple and mess-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I dump into a septic system if I use an enzyme treatment?
Yes. Enzyme-based treatments are compatible with septic systems because they support bacterial digestion instead of harming it.
Does an enzyme treatment break down toilet paper?
Yes. Enzymes are designed to digest paper as well as organic waste, helping reduce buildup and clogs.
Do I need special RV toilet paper?
No. When using an effective enzyme-based treatment, many RV owners can use standard household toilet paper without issues.
How often should I use an enzyme tank treatment?
Typically, add one packet each time you dump and refill your tank. Most campers service their tanks about once per week, depending on usage.
Can enzyme treatments be used in all climates?
Enzyme formulas perform well in most conditions. In extremely hot climates (90°F+ for extended periods), some RV owners prefer switching to a performance-driven formula designed for maximum odor defense.
Can I use a black tank enzyme treatment in my grey tank?
Black tank treatments are formulated specifically for waste digestion. For grey tank sanitation and grease breakdown, use a product designed for grey water systems.
Bottom Line
Eco-friendly no longer means less effective. Modern natural enzyme tank treatments provide strong odor control, efficient waste digestion, septic compatibility, and regulatory compliance—making them a smart choice for today’s environmentally conscious RV owners and dealers.
Need Help Selecting the Right Formula? Call 800-338-3155 for expert guidance.
Hello 2021! Let Walex get you stocked up!
2020 was an amazing year for the RV and Marine industries, and 2021 is looking bright too. The demand for RV and Marine sanitation products is higher than ever, and Walex is hard at work to keep dealer shelves full of the best sanitation products for their customers. From our facility in coastal North Carolina, we innovate, manufacture, and ship products worldwide.
Our dedicated staff is working hard to supply RV and Marine Dealers with our full line of RV and Marine holding tank and sanitation products during this unprecedented market growth. We have a full range of convenient drop-in packets, eco-friendly enzyme-based products, and liquid deodorizers designed to clean and sanitize both black and grey holding tanks.
We make all products on-demand, so don’t wait to reach out to your distributor of choice to place your Walex order today. Thank you for your support!
Four Reasons to Use Your RV this Christmas
Christmas celebrations will look different for many of us this year, but your RV might be the key to unlocking a different but equally enjoyable holiday season. Here are four reasons to use your RV this Christmas.
You can safely visit extended family.
Maybe Uncle Eddie had the right idea after all when he parked his RV in Clark Griswold’s driveway for the holidays. What was normal during past Christmases—extended family near and far congregating to spend the holidays under one roof—is not considered safe during the ongoing pandemic.
While you might not be able to stay in the guest bedroom down the hall from your aging parents or pregnant daughter, you can temporarily—ahem, Uncle Eddie—park your RV in a family member’s driveway and visit with them outdoors. Weather permitting, an early Christmas dinner on the back deck would be a great way to safely enjoy each other’s company and celebrate the season.
You can take your pets.
While pet ownership brings many joys, it does complicate travel. If you’re traveling in your RV, though, you don’t have to worry if your toy poodle will get along with your aunt’s American bulldog or if you should just fork up the money for a pet sitter. When you travel by RV, though, you can bring your pup along for the ride every time. Just stock up on some Walex Odor Absorbers to eradicate any “dog” smells you might start to notice over time. Our gel-infused odor absorber uses a layer of charcoal to absorb odors without any artificial fragrances.
You can spend the holidays in warmer weather.
Owning an RV gives you the freedom to go where you want when you want. If a white Christmas doesn’t sound appealing this year, pack up the RV and head south for the holidays. Camping World has some great destination suggestions.
You can still enjoy your favorite Christmas traditions.
If you’re planning to spend your Christmas Eve in an RV campsite, you might be worried that you’ll miss all the traditions you typically enjoy at home. But you can adapt those traditions to RV life.
Here are some excellent ways to display a Christmas tree inside your RV. You can also string lights around your RV's perimeter—icicle lights look beautiful on the awning—but just make sure the decorations don’t consume too much wattage. Choose LED lights, which use less power than regular lights. Or, rather than using lights that you have to string up every time you change location, you can set up a Christmas light projector to colorfully illuminate your RV's exterior.
You can even replicate Christmas dinner! If feasting on turkey and stuffing is a Christmas Day tradition, you can cook a few juicy turkey breasts on your charcoal grill and prepare the stuffing in your crockpot. When it’s time to clean up after the meal, Walex has you covered with our powerful all-purpose cleaner and easy-to-use odor eliminating spray.
No matter how you decide to use your RV this Christmas, we wish you safe, happy travels. And don’t forget, wherever the road takes you, take Walex.
Should I Get a Performance-Driven or a Natural Enzyme RV Tank Treatment?
Performance-Driven vs. Natural Enzyme RV Tank Treatments: Which Is Right for You?
Quick Answer: A performance-driven formula like Porta-Pak typically delivers powerful odor suppression in extreme heat and high-demand conditions, while a natural enzyme formula like Bio-Pak excels at digesting waste and toilet paper to prevent clogs, buildup, and septic disruption. The best choice depends on your climate, dumping method, and maintenance priorities.
What Is a Performance-Driven RV Tank Treatment?
A performance-driven holding tank formula is engineered for maximum odor defense. These treatments focus on stopping odor at its source and delivering strong, reliable results—especially in hot weather when odors intensify quickly.
They are often preferred in:
- High-temperature climates
- Heavy-use situations
- Extended camping trips
- Applications where rapid odor control is the top priority
Because heat accelerates odor production, a performance-driven formula can provide consistent protection in demanding environments.
What Is a Natural Enzyme RV Tank Treatment?
A natural enzyme formula works differently. Instead of simply suppressing odor, the specific enzymes target odor molecules, paper and waste. Enzymes act as catalysts that digest solids and odor molecules, helping maintain a cleaner, odor-free tank environment.
This approach helps:
- Liquefy toilet paper
- Prevent pyramid buildup
- Reduce clogs
- Keep tank walls and sensors cleaner
- Support septic system compatibility
Which Formula Is Better for Preventing Clogs?
If your primary concern is preventing paper buildup, hardened waste, or inaccurate sensor readings, a natural enzyme formula typically provides better long-term digestion and tank cleanliness.
Which Formula Performs Better in Hot Weather?
In very hot climates, a performance-driven formula may deliver stronger immediate odor suppression. Higher temperatures can intensify odors quickly, making advanced odor-control technology especially beneficial.
How Do You Choose the Right RV Tank Treatment?
Consider the following factors:
- Your typical camping climate
- How frequently you dump
- Whether you dump into a septic system
- Your history of clogs or sensor issues
- Campground or state disposal regulations
Many RV owners use a natural enzyme formula for routine weekly maintenance and incorporate a stronger cleaning treatment periodically to deep clean the tank.
Bottom Line
If you camp in extreme heat and want maximum odor defense, a performance-driven formula may be the better fit. If your focus is digestion, clog prevention, and septic compatibility, a natural enzyme formula is often the smarter long-term solution.
Need Help Deciding? Call 800-338-3155 for expert guidance on selecting the right holding tank treatment for your RV lifestyle.
Can I Use a Black Tank Cleaner in my Grey Holding Tank Too?
Can You Use a Black Tank Cleaner in an RV Grey Tank?
Quick Answer: Some RV owners use black tank cleaners in their grey tanks to help clean sensors, but these products are not specifically formulated for grey water buildup. For grease, food particles, and organic sludge in grey tanks, a dedicated grey tank treatment is recommended.
Is It Safe to Use Black Tank Cleaner in a Grey Tank?
Black tank cleaners are formulated primarily to break down waste and toilet paper. While they were not specifically designed for grey water systems, some RV owners report success using them to address sensor buildup inside grey tanks.
If used for this purpose, allow the solution to remain in the tank for at least 12–24 hours, or longer if needed, to help break down residue.
How Do You Apply a Black Tank Cleaner to a Grey Tank?
- Dissolve one packet in a plastic cup using room-temperature tap water.
- Stir gently until fully dissolved.
- Pour the solution down a sink drain connected to the grey tank.
- Fill the grey tank to near full capacity for best coverage.
- Allow 12–24 hours of soak time before dumping.
A fuller tank allows the treatment to contact sensors and tank walls more effectively.
What Causes Grey Tank Odors and Buildup?
- Grease from dishwashing
- Food particles
- Soap residue
- Organic sludge
- Buildup on tank walls and sensors
Unlike black tanks, grey tanks accumulate fats, oils, and soaps that require targeted formulas for optimal breakdown.
What Is the Best Treatment for RV Grey Tanks?
For regular grey tank sanitation and odor control, use a product specifically formulated for grey water systems. Elemonate is designed to break down grease, food particles, and organic sludge while freshening the tank.
Using a treatment formulated for grey tanks ensures more effective buildup removal and odor management.
When Should You Deep Clean a Grey Tank?
- Sensors are reading inaccurately
- Persistent odors are present
- Drainage seems slow
- Tank hasn’t been cleaned in months
Need Guidance? Call 800-338-3155 for expert advice on choosing the right treatment for your RV holding tanks.
Can I use regular toilet paper in my RV toilet?
Do You Really Need Special RV Toilet Paper?
Quick Answer: RV toilet paper is designed to dissolve quickly in holding tanks, but it is not always necessary if you use an enzyme-based RV tank treatment that breaks down regular toilet paper effectively.
Why Is RV Toilet Paper Different?
Unlike home plumbing systems that move waste directly into municipal sewer lines, RV toilets flush into a holding tank where waste and paper remain stored until dumping. RV and marine toilet paper is manufactured to dissolve rapidly to reduce solid buildup inside the tank.
The goal is to minimize clogs and make dumping easier at campground stations.
Is RV Toilet Paper Required?
No. While RV toilet paper can help reduce buildup, it is not mandatory if your holding tank is properly maintained. The key is ensuring that waste and paper break down efficiently inside the tank.
How Can You Use Regular Toilet Paper in an RV?
Using a high-quality enzyme tank treatment allows many RV owners to use standard household toilet paper without issues. Enzyme formulas are designed to digest paper and organic waste, reducing the risk of clogs and buildup.
Which RV Tank Treatments Break Down Toilet Paper?
Bio-Pak is a weekly drop-in deodorizer that uses enzymes to digest waste and paper while controlling odors. It is available in Alpine Fresh and Tropical Breeze fragrances.
Commando is a deep-clean black tank treatment designed for periodic use. It helps remove hardened buildup from tank walls and sensors, which can interfere with level readings and valve performance.
What Happens If Toilet Paper Builds Up in Your Tank?
- False sensor readings
- Persistent odors
- Slower drainage
- Potential clogs
- Difficulty emptying completely
Routine enzyme treatments help prevent these issues by keeping solids liquefied and tanks flowing freely.
Best Practices for Healthy RV Holding Tanks
- Use plenty of water with each flush
- Dump when the tank is about 2/3 full
- Use enzyme-based tank treatments regularly
- Perform occasional deep cleanings
Bottom Line: RV toilet paper can help, but consistent tank maintenance with enzyme-based treatments plays a much larger role in preventing buildup and keeping your system operating smoothly.
Need Help Choosing a Product? Call 800-338-3155 for expert guidance.
Why is Bio-Pak "Cali-Safe?"
What RV Holding Tank Treatments Are Legal in California?
Quick Answer: California prohibits the sale and use of certain RV holding tank chemicals that contain specific biocides, including formaldehyde and bronopol. To comply with state regulations and protect septic systems, RV owners should choose enzyme-based, biocide-free treatments.
Why Did California Ban Certain RV Tank Chemicals?
California passed legislation restricting the sale of holding tank products containing 14 specific chemicals commonly used to control odors. Many of these chemicals work by killing odor-causing bacteria. While effective at reducing smells, they can damage septic systems when dumped into them.
Septic systems depend on healthy bacteria to break down waste. When biocides enter the system, they can disrupt this balance and reduce septic efficiency over time.
Which Chemicals Are Restricted?
The legislation includes chemicals such as formaldehyde and bronopol, which have historically been used in some tank deodorizers. RV owners should review product labels carefully to ensure compliance with state regulations.
What Makes an RV Holding Tank Treatment California Compliant?
California-compliant tank treatments are typically:
- Biocide-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Enzyme-based
- Septic-system compatible
Instead of killing bacteria, these treatments use natural enzymes to accelerate the breakdown of waste and paper while neutralizing odors.
How Do Enzyme-Based RV Treatments Work?
Enzymes are naturally occurring substances produced by living organisms. In RV holding tanks, they act as catalysts that help digest organic waste and toilet paper. By speeding up decomposition, enzyme formulas reduce odors and promote smoother, more efficient dumping.
This biological approach supports septic health rather than disrupting it.
Is Bio-Pak California Compliant?
Bio-Pak is formulated without biocides and does not contain formaldehyde, making it compliant with California regulations. Its enzyme-based formula digests waste and paper while controlling odor, making it a suitable option for RV owners in California and anyone who dumps into a septic system.
Bio-Pak is available in Tropical Breeze and Alpine Fresh varieties.
Who Should Use a California-Compliant Tank Treatment?
- RV owners living in or traveling through California
- Campers who dump into home septic systems
- Travelers concerned about environmental impact
- Anyone wanting to avoid harsh chemical treatments
Pro Tip: Even if you don’t live in California, choosing a biocide-free, enzyme-based treatment helps protect septic systems and supports environmentally responsible RV waste management.