Seattle, we're here — and we brought clean restrooms
Delightful public restrooms have just landed in Seattle. As of May 12, Throne is officially available in the Seattle and Puget Sound areas, bringing smart, self-contained restrooms to seven locations across the region. We've partnered with the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT), Pierce Transit, and King County Metro to make it happen — and we couldn't be more excited to be here.
What is Throne?
Glad you asked! Thrones are smart, self-contained public restrooms that our local team keeps clean, accessible, and delightful for everyone. Each Throne is portable, ADA-compliant, and requires no connection to water or sewer. That means we can set one up in less than a day, not the years it takes to permit and build traditional public restrooms.
But a Throne isn't just a facility you walk into. It's also a full-service restroom solution. Our local Seattle team handles all cleaning, maintenance, and operations, using real-time cleanliness ratings to keep every unit spotless and stocked. Our national network averages a 4.1/5 cleanliness rating — because clean shouldn't be a nice-to-have.
Inside every Throne, you'll find:
- A flushing toilet and running-water sink
- A baby-changing station
- Complimentary menstrual products
- Touchless flush, faucet, and exit
- A ramp for wheelchair and walker access
- NaviLens codes to guide people who are blind or low vision
What makes them “smart”?
Every Throne is packed with technology that works quietly in the background to keep things clean, safe, and running smoothly:
21+ sensors in each unit
First thing’s first: these are not cameras! We’re talking sensors for motion, fluid levels, smoke detection, and even odor. These alert us to when a unit needs to be pumped, water is running low, or something is damaged. We’ll know when something needs attention — no waiting for a complaint to come in.
Cleanliness ratings
After every visit, you can rate the cleanliness of a Throne via SMS or our mobile app. That data dynamically drives our (human-powered) cleaning schedule so units stay spotless around the clock.
Tech-enabled access for accountability
Open the door via QR code, text message, the Throne app, or a phoneless entry card. This way, while every user remains anonymous, a unique ID is assigned so that we can address misuse without ever knowing who they are.
10-minute time limit to prevent extended stays
Finally, a built-in 10-minute limit keeps things moving. You’ll hear a reminder at 5 minutes, 8 minutes, and 10 minutes so you’re never caught off guard.
Where can I find one?
We're launching at 5 locations across the Greater Seattle and Puget Sound areas:
- Lakewood Transit Center (Pierce Transit)
- Pioneer Square: 2 units @ 2nd & Washington (SDOT)
- Lumen Field: 2 units @ 1st & Charles (SDOT)
- Burien Transit Center (KC Metro)
- Aurora Village Transit Center (KC Metro)
How do I get in?
No phone? No problem — though for most people, it's the easiest option. There are four ways to get into a Throne:
- Scan the QR code on the unit (the most popular method). It automatically opens your messaging app with a pre-filled message — just press send and the door opens.
- Text the word "Throne" from any phone, smart or not. You'll be prompted for the unit code, and then you're in. Instructions are posted clearly to the left of the door.
- Use the Throne Bathroom Network app. Beyond opening the door, the app shows all nearby Throne locations, real-time availability, and recent cleanliness ratings so you can walk in with confidence. Download it on Google Play or the Apple App Store.
- Tap a Phoneless Access Card. Throne provides cards to community partners (think libraries, transit agencies, etc.) who can register you for your personal Throne card. No phone required.
For those who are blind or have low vision, every Throne also has NaviLens codes for wayfinding around and inside a Throne.
Will there be more Thrones in Seattle?
That's up to you. Throne's expansion into new neighborhoods and cities depends on community support. When residents and riders let their representatives know they want better public restroom access, it makes a difference.
If you want to see more Thrones across Seattle, Tacoma, and the surrounding region, reach out to your city council member and let them know. Public restrooms are a public good, and your voice matters in making them a priority.
Seattle has always been a city willing to do things differently. Thanks for welcoming us—we’re so excited to be here.
Join us in expanding restroom access
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