Where do ‘Survivor’ castaways use the restroom?

Survivor is renowned for pushing its contestants to endure various challenges, including physical strain, lack of hygiene, and scarcity of food. However, one aspect often overlooked is the restroom situation, or rather, the absence of conventional facilities, which significantly impacts castaways’ daily routines.

Filmed across diverse locations worldwide, Survivor’s settings, whether in China, Africa, Guatemala, or elsewhere, lack basic amenities such as bathrooms. As a result, castaways must adapt to the natural environment, radically altering their restroom habits. Jeff Probst, the long-standing host and showrunner, disclosed the unorthodox methods used by contestants in an interview with PEOPLE.

According to Probst, the jungle and the ocean serve as the castaways’ options for relieving themselves. He humorously mentioned the concept of “aqua dumps,” a term coined by players for using the ocean as a restroom. Probst cautioned contestants to be mindful of their location in relation to the water flow before committing to such acts.

Survivor alum Malcolm Freberg, having experienced this unique challenge across three seasons, shed light on the practice of “aqua dumps.” Describing the process, he outlined wading into the Pacific Ocean to an appropriate depth, allowing nature to take its course, and using sand for cleaning afterward. However, he emphasized the psychological challenge of doing so amidst crashing waves, passing fish, and the lack of privacy, especially with fellow tribe members nearby.

For those uncomfortable with ocean-based relief, utilizing the jungle for restroom purposes remains an option. Malcolm advised digging a hole and covering it after use, though acknowledging the limitations of using leaves for hygiene compared to standard toiletries.

While the show doesn’t depict such moments, and privacy is limited, Survivor fans can catch all 45 seasons of the series on Paramount Plus. Despite the lack of bathroom woes on screen, the unconventional aspects of survival continue to intrigue viewers.