How does it work?

The Otea app pairs hosts with users, just like Uber. The host gets a notification when a user has booked their bathroom. The host verifies the user with a confirmation number that the guest receives after booking. During testing, no one is charged and you will also take a survey about your app experience.

Why rent restrooms?

It’s simple- there aren’t enough clean public restrooms, especially in areas like New York City. Maintaining a restroom is costly, and it’s too risky to allow unverified users into a storefront bathroom for free. We’re empowering independent storefronts and matching pedestrians with the infrastructure they need for a stress-free travel experience.

What platforms do you support?

iOS, Android, and web as well.

I want to be a beta tester, can I sign up?

Submit your information over here and we will provide you with an information packet!

How do I know I’ll have a safe and clean experience?

Our thorough reporting service allows either party to submit a report, which will be addressed with 24 hours. If there is more than one report for either a restroom or a guest, then the account will be flagged and suspended.

All sites are inspected by staff prior to onboarding, and providers are legally obligated to provide restroom access upon arrival. If they fail to do so, you will get a refund for your booking amount to your account.

How will the restrooms be priced?

We decide the prices for the restrooms, depending on the quality. They will be priced from 3-6 dollars for most cases to start. All credit card and operational fees, currently 10% total, will be taken out of that price. The maximum price is $10. We believe in capping the price to ensure affordability for all.

What are you doing to further your mission?

We pledge to donate 1% of profits, in perpetuity, to sanitation-related charities. Ultimately, our goal is to help everyone with sanitation needs, not just those who visit a large U.S. city.

What if someone messes up my restroom?

This is a concern, and also a concern for your existing customers. Adding a paywall in the form of a fee for your restroom will keep out most bad actors. If a guest is rude or makes a mess, then you can report them with us and we can ban them from your store, and potentially from the platform itself depending on the severity of their actions.

Why is it named “Otea”?

Otea is inspired by お手て洗あらい, or otearai, which is “restroom” in Japanese.

How can I follow you guys?

Sign up for our email list here or find us on social media.