First Impressions of Thetford 36700 Combination Staytion
The Thetford 36700 Combination Staytion promises a simple, screw-free solution to organization and storage. Marketed towards RVers, campers, and anyone needing a temporary hanging solution, it aims to deliver a powerful suction hold capable of handling up to 20 pounds. My initial skepticism stems from years of experience with suction-based products that often fail to live up to their claims, particularly in demanding outdoor environments.
I was looking for a reliable way to hang lightweight gear inside my truck camper without drilling any holes. I wanted something that could easily be moved around as my needs changed.
Upon unboxing, the Combination Staytion feels surprisingly robust. The suction cup is significantly larger than those found on typical household hooks, and the fold-away handle mechanism appears sturdy. It’s compact enough to store easily when not in use, which is a definite plus.
Compared to simple suction cup hooks or adhesive-based hangers, the Thetford offers a reusable, repositionable solution with a higher weight capacity claim. Unlike permanent mounting options, it doesn’t require any tools or leave any residue. My first impression is cautiously optimistic; the build quality suggests a product that might actually deliver on its promises, unlike so many others I’ve tested.
Real-World Testing: Putting Thetford 36700 Combination Staytion to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Thetford 36700 Combination Staytion was in the back of my truck camper during a weekend fishing trip. I used it to hang a lightweight tackle bag containing essential lures and tools. The initial suction was impressive, adhering firmly to the smooth fiberglass wall of the camper.
During the drive, which included some bumpy gravel roads, the Staytion held firm. No slippage or detachment occurred. After arriving at the campsite, the humidity increased overnight and in the morning I checked to see if it maintained it’s seal which to my surprise it did with no issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Thetford has proven to be more reliable than I initially anticipated. I’ve used it to hang everything from wet towels to light backpacks. While it hasn’t completely replaced my need for more permanent storage solutions, it has become a valuable addition for temporary organization.
The suction cup has shown no signs of degradation, and the fold-away handle mechanism still operates smoothly. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth removes any dirt or grime. I did notice that it works best on perfectly smooth, non-porous surfaces; textured surfaces significantly reduce its holding power. The Staytion outperforms most other suction-based products I’ve used in the past, offering a noticeably stronger and more consistent hold.
Breaking Down the Features of Thetford 36700 Combination Staytion
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Thetford
- Weight Capacity: Up to 20 pounds
- Mounting: Suction cup
- Surface Compatibility: Smooth, non-porous surfaces
- Features: Fold-away handle for compact storage, Red line indicator for secure attachment, Yellow zone indicator for removal.
The specifications highlight the Staytion’s intended use as a temporary, lightweight storage solution. The 20-pound capacity is sufficient for most small bags, tools, or clothing items, while the suction cup design allows for easy installation and relocation without the need for tools or adhesives. The red/yellow indicators add a visual confirmation of secure attachment, which is helpful.
Performance & Functionality
The Thetford 36700 Combination Staytion performs admirably within its intended scope. It securely holds items up to its rated weight capacity on appropriate surfaces. However, its performance drops significantly on textured or porous surfaces.
Its strength lies in its ease of use and temporary nature, making it ideal for RVs, boats, or rentals where permanent modifications are not desired. Its weakness is its reliance on smooth surfaces and its limited weight capacity, making it unsuitable for heavy or bulky items. Overall, it meets my expectations for a temporary suction-based storage solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The Staytion features a simple and functional design. The fold-away handle is a clever touch, allowing for compact storage when not in use. The unit is lightweight and easy to handle.
However, the plastic construction feels somewhat cheap, and I question its long-term durability under heavy use. The suction cup lever is easy to operate, but it requires a fair amount of pressure to create a secure seal.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the Thetford 36700 Combination Staytion is my biggest concern. The plastic housing feels somewhat flimsy, and I suspect it could crack or break if subjected to rough handling or extreme temperatures. The suction cup itself seems durable, but the long-term reliability of the sealing mechanism remains to be seen.
Maintenance is minimal; a simple wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. However, the suction cup may require occasional cleaning to remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with its seal.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Thetford 36700 Combination Staytion is a self-contained unit with no included accessories or customization options. It’s designed to be used as-is. While there are no direct customization options, you can use it with various hooks or clips to hang different types of items.
Pros and Cons of Thetford 36700 Combination Staytion
Pros
- Easy Installation: No screws or adhesives required, making it ideal for temporary use.
- Repositionable: Can be easily moved to different locations without damage to surfaces.
- Compact Storage: Fold-away handle allows for easy storage when not in use.
- Decent Weight Capacity: Holds up to 20 pounds on smooth, non-porous surfaces.
- Red/Yellow Indicators: Visual cues for secure attachment and removal.
Cons
- Plastic construction feels cheap and potentially fragile.
- Requires perfectly smooth, non-porous surfaces for optimal performance.
- Limited weight capacity compared to permanent mounting solutions.
Who Should Buy Thetford 36700 Combination Staytion?
The Thetford 36700 Combination Staytion is perfect for RVers, campers, boaters, and renters who need a temporary and easily repositionable storage solution. It’s also suitable for anyone who wants to avoid drilling holes or using adhesives.
Those who need to hang heavy or bulky items or who require a permanent mounting solution should skip this product. A carabiner clip to use as a quick-release hook would be a must have accessory.
Conclusion on Thetford 36700 Combination Staytion
The Thetford 36700 Combination Staytion offers a convenient and effective solution for temporary storage on smooth, non-porous surfaces. Its ease of installation, repositionable design, and compact storage make it a valuable addition to any RV, boat, or rental property. However, its plastic construction and reliance on smooth surfaces are potential drawbacks.
At $42.99, the price is somewhat justified given its functionality and convenience. While I have concerns about its long-term durability, I would personally recommend it for those who need a temporary storage solution and understand its limitations. If you’re looking for a screw-free, adhesive-free way to hang lightweight items, give the Thetford 36700 Combination Staytion a try – just be sure to test it thoroughly before trusting it with anything valuable.