How To Use a Squat Toilet
Posted by Phil Adams on Dec 3, 2009 in Articles, Blog, Japan / Taiwan 2009 | 22 comments
If you travel overseas enough, you will eventually run into a squat toilet. "What is a
squat toilet?" you ask. They come in many varieties, but essentially, it is any toilet which requires you to squat instead of sit in order to conduct your business. From my experience, they are very popular in Asia, the Middle East, Africa and South America. Don't be afraid, though, once you get the hang of them, they are not that bad, and actually offer a much more sanitary experience that a lot of public sit-down toilets. I know that as a guy, I have gone into many bathrooms, even here in the U.S., looked at the toilet and thought, "Man, I'm glad I don't have to sit on that!" Women, however are not as fortunate, so they might especially appreciate the squatter. Sara, raised in Taiwan, much prefers the squat toilet to the sit-down variety in a public situation.
So, what is the best strategy for using this toilet?
If you have ever camped in the woods (without a bathroom nearby), you probably have your own technique. However, if you are new to the game, here is where to begin. First, bring your own toilet paper. Most squat toilets do not have any because most of the locals do not use it. Yes, that's right, the left hand was created for something after all (sorry to all of you lefties out there). Check local customs, but in many countries it is very offensive to offer to shake hands with your left hand for this very reason.
Once you enter the stall, you will notice an oval bowl built in to the floor. You will want to position your feet on either side of the bowl, drop your drawers and squat, being careful not to let your pants hit the ground, but making sure they are out of firing range. Try to position yourself over the bowl as much as possible for accuracy. I have found that maintaining this position can be difficult unless you relax. Rest the backs of your thighs on your calves so you are not straining too much. Then, let nature take its course.
You might notice a small trash can inside the stall. If it is present, this is the receptacle for the toilet paper. The plumbing in many countries cannot handle toilet paper and you will clog the pipes if you flush it. I was in South America and managed to clog up our hotel toilet. I wasn't confident in my Spanish, so I asked my roommate, Gary, to see if the maid could help. She fixed the problem, but became a bit irritated the following day when I did it again. "Otre vez (again!?)," she said as she shook her head.
Speaking of flushing, sometimes you might find that there is no way to flush. Look for a hose or a bucket of water with a ladle to accomplish the same thing. You might also just have a trench with constantly flowing water. Whatever you encounter, just go with it. Remember, it is all part of the adventure.
On a side note, if you have ever been to Vegas and walked down the Strip, you will inevitably be handed paper advertisements for local entertainment. Most people just throw them away. In Asia, from time to time, you will be handed advertisements that are really packs of tissues. If you see someone handing them out, don't avoid them, grab as many as they'll give you. They make excellent emergency toilet paper and are easy to carry around in your pocket.
I found a
video that is quite informative and entertaining if you would like visual details on what to expect from the whole squat toilet experience. We also have a companion post on some of the more
memorable bathrooms that Sara and I have encountered over the years. The main thing to remember is that the whole point of travel is to see and experience new things. It's all about your attitude.
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