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The Queen of the Black Tank: A Woman’s Guide to Conquering the Ick

  • aprilcoons128
  • Apr 1
  • 3 min read

Updated: 5 days ago


When we bought our travel trailer, I imagined sunsets over the lake, campfire s’mores, and the cozy charm of tiny living. What I did not imagine was that I would become the reigning queen of the black tank. Yet here I am, the self-appointed sanitation supervisor, the RV waste management specialist, the woman who wields the sewer hose with grace and determination.


In many RV marriages, the tank duties fall to the husband. Not in this house on wheels! My husband may be the driver, the hitch-master, and the CFO, but when it comes to the dark and mysterious world of holding tanks, that’s all me. And I take my job seriously—while keeping the ick to an absolute minimum.


The Post-Pump-Out Ritual: Dawn, Water, and a Prayer


After each trip, my process begins with a deep breath and a silent pep talk: You’ve got this. You are a strong, capable woman. You have survived middle-of-the-night spider scares and toddler tantrums; you can handle this.


Step 1: Flush out the black tank like it’s my life’s mission. A thorough rinse is key—because the alternative is a nightmare I don’t even want to think about.


Step 2: The secret weapon—Dawn dish soap. A good quarter to half a cup of Dawn goes into the black tank, followed by a few gallons of fresh water. Not only does it keep things fresh, but it also helps break down, um, let’s call it “debris,” and prevents the dreaded poop pyramid (Google at your own risk).


Step 3: Let it slosh around a bit. This is where we let science—and highway vibrations—do the work. If you have some ice cubes, throw in some of those, too. A handful of ice cubes and some soapy water before you drive can help knock loose any stubborn bits clinging to the sides. It’s like an exfoliation treatment for your tank—because even sewage deserves self-care. I drive off knowing my soapy concoction is swishing away in the tank like a tiny, disgusting car wash.


Things I’ve Learned as the Tank Boss


  1. Gravity is not your friend. If you think you can control a sewer hose without getting splashed at least once, you are living in a fantasy world.

  2. Always check your hose for holes and all of the seals. A small leak turns into a horror movie real fast.

  3. Gloves. Always. This is not a job for bare hands. Double up if you’re feeling extra cautious. THIS is not where we skimp or go cheap. GLOVE UP!

  4. Never, ever, EVER leave the black tank valve open at a campsite. Trust me. Just… trust me. I don't know why, but that is what I am told, and when it comes to issues of the black tank, I always listen to those who came before me.

  5. Ice cubes in the tank? Yes, it works. 


Finding Pride in the Mess


While some might see this as a less-than-glamorous part of RV life, I have embraced my role as the black tank commander. Sure, it’s not the Pinterest-worthy side of trailer living, but it’s an essential one. And when my husband gives me that look—the one that says, I don’t know how you do it, but I’m eternally grateful that you do—I know my work is valued.


So to all the women out there handling the tanks, I raise my rubber-gloved hand in solidarity. May your seals stay tight, your hoses remain tangle-free, and your dump stations be conveniently located. You are the unsung heroes of the road, and you deserve a cold drink (and a long, thorough hand wash) after every pump-out.


Happy travels, and may your black tank always be clean enough!


What’s your secret black tank weapon? Do you swear by Dawn dish soap, ice cubes, or something else?


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