Thetford 36668 Bar Soap Staytion Review

One Month Later: Thetford 36668 Bar Soap Staytion Review

It’s a simple problem, really: the slippery bar of soap that inevitably finds its way to the shower floor. For years, I’d resigned myself to this minor annoyance, a small price to pay for the convenience of a traditional bar soap, especially in environments where liquid dispensers aren’t always practical. This led me to seek out a solution that wouldn’t involve drilling holes or using sticky adhesives that would eventually fail or damage surfaces. The Thetford 36668 Bar Soap Staytion caught my eye as a novel approach to this age-old issue.

My initial encounter with this product was born from a frustrating camping trip where my favorite bar soap, unceremoniously left in the shower enclosure, ended up half-submerged in a puddle by morning. This common scenario, amplified by the lack of permanent fixtures in RVs or campsites, made me actively search for a better way to store my soap. I briefly considered basic mesh bags, but they often didn’t solve the “slipping” problem and could be cumbersome.

Upon receiving the Thetford 36668 Bar Soap Staytion, my first impression was of its remarkably compact and unassuming design. The plastic felt durable, and the suction mechanism seemed robust, promising a secure hold without the need for permanent fixtures. It felt like a practical, well-thought-out gadget designed to solve a specific, albeit minor, inconvenience.

I briefly looked at some generic suction-cup soap holders, but they often lacked the purported holding power and the clever warning system that this particular model offers. My immediate feeling was one of cautious optimism; it seemed like a simple yet effective solution that could finally put an end to the soggy bar soap dilemma.

Real-World Testing: Putting Thetford 36668 Bar Soap Staytion to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed this soap holder in the shower of my RV. The installation was as simple as advertised: I just pressed it firmly against the smooth, tiled shower wall, ensuring a good seal. The suction mechanism engaged immediately, and the unit felt surprisingly solid, capable of holding a good amount of weight.

Performance in this environment was key. The shower is frequently exposed to steam and moisture, and the smooth tile is generally a good surface for suction cups. Over the first week, the Staytion held its ground perfectly, keeping the bar soap elevated and dry, preventing it from becoming a slippery hazard on the shower floor.

Ease of use was a major win here. There was no learning curve; it’s a straightforward push-and-stick mechanism. I encountered no issues or surprises during this initial period; it performed exactly as it was designed to.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a month of consistent use in a damp RV shower environment, the Thetford 36668 Bar Soap Staytion has proven its reliability. It remains firmly attached to the shower wall, with no signs of loosening or detachment, even after numerous hot showers. The holding power, advertised up to 20 pounds, seems easily sufficient for holding a bar of soap.

Durability is evident; there are no cracks or signs of wear on the plastic components. The suction mechanism still engages with a satisfying click, and the soap bar sits securely, free from the shower spray. Maintenance is practically non-existent. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed if any soap residue builds up.

Compared to previous generic suction-cup soap dishes I’ve used in the past, which often failed within weeks, this unit is a significant upgrade. Those older models would frequently lose suction, especially in humid conditions, requiring constant reapplication. This one has remained steadfast.

Breaking Down the Features of Thetford 36668 Bar Soap Staytion

Specifications

The Thetford 36668 Bar Soap Staytion is a compact accessory designed for the practical storage of bar soap. Its primary mechanism is a powerful suction cup, capable of adhering to any smooth, non-porous surface. Thetford proudly states its strong holding power is up to 20 pounds (9.1 kg.), which is substantial for its intended purpose.

A standout feature is the patented Red Line warning system. This ingenious indicator provides visual feedback if the suction begins to weaken, alerting the user before any failure occurs. The user simply pushes the button to re-secure the unit, ensuring peace of mind and preventing unexpected drops.

These specifications are crucial for user experience. The 20-pound holding power guarantees it won’t fall under the weight of even a large bar of soap, while the Red Line warning system adds a layer of proactive safety. This is a significant advantage over generic suction cups, which offer no such immediate feedback.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary role, this soap holder performs exceptionally well. It keeps bar soap out of the shower spray, extending its life by preventing premature dissolving. The soap is always easily accessible and neatly stored, eliminating clutter on the shower ledge or floor.

Its main strength is undoubtedly the secure mounting system combined with the visual warning indicator. The Red Line system is a true differentiator, offering confidence in its continued performance. A minor area for potential improvement might be its aesthetic – it’s purely functional and not designed to be a decorative bathroom accessory.

Considering its affordable price point and the problem it solves, the performance exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of keeping soap dry and accessible without damaging surfaces, a significant value proposition for any user.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Thetford 36668 Bar Soap Staytion is purely functional, prioritizing utility over form. It’s made from a durable plastic material that feels robust and capable of withstanding the humid bathroom environment. The overall feel is solid, with no cheap or flimsy components.

Ergonomically, it’s designed for simplicity. The large button on the front is intuitive for engaging and re-engaging the suction. There’s no learning curve; it’s a direct, push-and-release operation. The shape is practical, providing a stable platform for a bar of soap.

The prominent red button for the warning system is a key design element, serving both its functional purpose and acting as a clear visual cue for operation. While not stylish, its straightforward, no-nonsense design ensures it can be easily operated by anyone, regardless of dexterity.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction and simple mechanism, this soap holder is likely to last a considerable time under normal use conditions. Its plastic build is resistant to water and humidity, and there are no complex parts to break. It feels like a product built for longevity in a challenging environment.

Maintenance is minimal. If soap scum or residue builds up, a simple wipe with a damp cloth or a mild cleaner is sufficient. There are no specific parts to replace, and the suction mechanism is designed to be resilient.

The main potential failure point for any suction-based product is the gradual degradation of the rubber or plastic over very long periods, or damage from abrasive cleaning materials. However, based on initial impressions and materials, this appears to be a very well-constructed unit that should resist such issues.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Thetford 36668 Bar Soap Staytion comes as a standalone unit. There are no additional accessories included, nor are there obvious customization options like interchangeable parts or different mounting hardware. Its design is singular and focused on its core function.

The product is not designed to be compatible with accessories from other brands, nor does it require them to function effectively. Its simplicity is its strength, meaning it operates independently and efficiently. The patented Red Line warning system is a unique feature integrated directly into its design, offering a level of functionality not found in simpler soap holders.

Pros and Cons of Thetford 36668 Bar Soap Staytion

Who Should Buy Thetford 36668 Bar Soap Staytion?

This soap holder is ideal for RV owners, campers, boaters, and anyone who uses bar soap in a temporary or rental living situation where drilling or permanent adhesives are not an option. It’s also perfect for individuals who appreciate clever, functional design that solves common household annoyances with minimal fuss. Anyone who values keeping their soap dry and accessible without mess would benefit greatly.

Users who require a more decorative bathroom accessory or need to store liquid soap or multiple toiletries should look elsewhere. This unit is purpose-built for one thing: holding bar soap securely.

A complementary item that could enhance the experience is simply having a good quality bar of soap that fits well within the holder’s dimensions. Beyond that, this product is self-sufficient and requires no additional purchases to function as intended.

Conclusion on Thetford 36668 Bar Soap Staytion

The Thetford 36668 Bar Soap Staytion is a brilliant, simple solution to an often-overlooked problem. Its clever design, particularly the patented Red Line warning system, provides peace of mind and reliable performance. The strong holding power and adhesive-free installation make it an exceptionally practical choice for a variety of living situations.

At $13.99, the value proposition is excellent. It’s an inexpensive yet highly effective tool that genuinely improves the user experience by extending soap life and preventing the dreaded slippery soap on the floor. This product is a testament to smart engineering solving everyday challenges.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Thetford 36668 Bar Soap Staytion to anyone who uses bar soap and values a clean, dry, and hassle-free shower environment. It’s a small investment for a significant upgrade in convenience and product longevity.