Peg, I'm pretty sure that's what the plastic container stored under the sink is meant for? It's a 'chamber pot' not a wastebasket.

Lest anyone get the wrong idea - there are bathrooms! at the end of each car, I believe. I suppose you could run into a situation of a uncomfortable wait but that can happen on an airplane (transatlantic) flight in the morning as well.

I find a train overnight much more pleasant than the flight "across the pond" - the train is much more comfortable and just as with the transatlantic flight, a sleeping aid (ambien!) can pretty much ensure a good nights sleep.

If you travel in First there often is a bathroom in the compartment; sometimes even a shower.