American toilets make use of a single handle flushing system while the European toilets feature the dual push flushing system. The reason for the dual push system is to help conserve water.
What is the difference between American and European toilets?
Americans have the standard toilet bowl and urinal in restrooms, while Europeans have a few varying options. Squat toilets, found in southern and eastern Europe, are essentially a hole in the floor. The rest of Europe features the toilets similar to those found in America.
Why are there two toilets in the bathroom?
Why are there two toilets in Europe? If you visit countries like France, Italy and Portugal, or venture further afield to East Asia, Latin America and the Middle East, you are likely to come across two toilets in the bathroom. However, while one of the systems most definitely is a toilet for human wastage, the other serves a different purpose.
How do bathrooms in Europe differ from our own?
Some European bathrooms have shared hand-washing facilities for women and men, with adjacent but separate toilet areas. And some restrooms make no distinctions for gender at all. The vast majority of European toilets are similar to our own.
Do toilets in Europe have flushing mechanisms?
In Europe, you may or may not encounter a familiar flushing mechanism. In older bathrooms, toilets may come with a pull string instead of a handle (generally with the tank affixed to the wall rather than the toilet itself).
Why are there two toilets in Europe?
When was the bidet invented?
Can you use a bidet in the UK?
Can you use a toilet paper to dry your skin?
Why are European toilets different than us?
In flushing an European toilet, the first push button (or partial push or small button) is to flush down liquid waste while the second push (or big button push) is to flush down solid wastes. American toilets on the other hand feature a single handle for flushing the toilets both solid and liquid waste.
Why do European toilets have no water?
Meanwhile, in Australia and Europe, water is used to push the waste down the drain, so the “trap way” can be much wider, and less prone to blockages. It's also why there is much less water in an Australian or European toilet bowl, than there is in a US one.
What kind of toilets do they use in Europe?
Americans have the standard toilet bowl and urinal in restrooms, while Europeans have a few varying options. Squat toilets, found in southern and eastern Europe, are essentially a hole in the floor. The rest of Europe features the toilets similar to those found in America.
Why do Europeans not flush toilet paper?
Do not flush if you're going to these countries. The worst thing you can possibly do in a public restroom is cause a blockage. No one wants to be that person. And some countries do not have systems that can break down toilet paper easily, so it's customary not to flush.
Which country has the cleanest toilets?
The cities with the cleanest restrooms in the world call Eastern Asia and Europe home, according to rankings compiled by Lifestyle. Inq. Often lauded as one of the cleanest and most advanced cities anywhere, Tokyo, Japan has the world's most spotless public restrooms, according to the list.
Why do Americans not use bidets?
There's no space or additional plumbing setup for bidet fixtures. But the biggest reason it hasn't caught on comes down to habit. Most Americans grew up using toilet paper. And many might not even know there's an alternative way to stay clean.
Why do toilets in Italy have no seats?
Most Italian public toilets don't have a toilet seat. This has to do with maintenance. Since public toilets are often less than spotless, people often climb with their shoes on top of them, not to sit on a potentially dirty seat.
Why do Europeans use toilet paper?
One of the reasons some countries have always favoured toilet paper, it appears, is the climate. Most countries in Northern Europe are cold for a good part of the year, and although we live in the 21st century and water heating is available today, it's just a habit that's been passed down the ages.
Why do Italian bathrooms have 2 toilets?
Italian bidets are basically used to keep yourself extra clean, and they even prevent infections. I promise that, after trying one, you'll look back on your previous bathroom rituals with mild displeasure.
Do Muslims use toilet paper?
Millions of Muslims and Hindus around the world were bowled over by this need to buy toilet paper since they typically wash their backsides with water. According to Sahih al-Bukhari, one of the six significant Hadith collections in Sunni Islam, the left hand should be used for anal ablution after defecation.
Why do Greek toilets not have toilet paper?
Don't flush toilet paper in Greece There's a very simple explanation: Greek sewage pipes are approximately two inches (50mm) in diameter. American and British plumbing is twice as large (four inches/100mm). The Greek pipes just get clogged. They don't call them 'modern conveniences' for nothing.
What country does not use toilet paper?
France, Portugal, Italy, Japan, Argentina, Venezuela, and Spain: Instead of toilet paper, people from these countries (most of them from Europe) usually have a bidet in their washrooms. A bidet like a toilet, but also includes a spout that streams water like a water fountain to rinse you clean.
Do Europeans use water in toilet?
European toilets use less water (and may have the "dual-flush" option that lets users choose a lighter flush for liquid waste), and there's less splashback and less noise involved.
Why do foreigners use toilet paper instead of water?
There are many reasons for using toilet paper, which include climate and culture. Countries that use toilet paper are cold for a good part of the year, and while we are now living in a century blessed with water heating, the habit of using toilet paper has been passed down. Culture is also another reason.
Do Europeans still use bidet?
Bidets are common in Europe, Latin America and Japan, where people use them because they are regarded as the best way to stay clean. People who don't use a bidet are considered to be unhygienic. As in America, the question of using a bidet is a matter of custom and habit.
Why are bidets separate from toilets?
Traditionally, a bidet is a separate plumbing fixture and basin from the toilet in your bathroom. While your toilet is used to expel waste away into sewage pipes, the bidet has a different job. The bidet does the job of cleaning you up with water, as opposed to using toilet paper.
Why are there two toilets in Europe?
If you visit countries like France, Italy and Portugal, or venture further afield to East Asia, Latin America and the Middle East, you are likely to come across two toilets in the bathroom. However, while one of the systems most definitely is a toilet for human wastage, the other serves a different purpose.
When was the bidet invented?
The bidet is believed to be a French invention, although the true origins of its creation remain unknown. It made its first appearance in the late 17th century and the first written account of a bidet appeared in 1726 in Italy.
Can you use a bidet in the UK?
You have likely heard of bidet but may not have come across one in the UK, as they are not installed as standard in UK homes or even in most hotels. It offers a very hygienic way of washing your behind after you have gone to toilet and works as a mini shower that cleans the skin and removes any lingering faeces.
Can you use a toilet paper to dry your skin?
If you are in a public space and there is towel nearby make sure this is only used for your hands and not your rear! There is usually a built-in air dryer in the bidet you can use to dry your skin. If not, you may need to use a little toilet paper to dry yourself before getting up and organising yourself to leave.
What is the difference between a European toilet and an American toilet?
American partitions offer a good deal of privacy , but the exposed feet and top, combined with the sight lines between the door and frame, may make some occupants a bit uncomfortable. European toilets offer exceptional privacy because instead of a thin partition, it’s actually an enclosed stall. This trend is starting to make its way overseas with Scranton Products’ Aria Partitions™.
How much does it cost to use a toilet in Europe?
Some public restrooms in Europe actually require a fee to use the toilet. The fee is usually 1.5 Euros to gain access to the restroom.
Do European bathrooms have urinals?
As for the urinals, American bathrooms feature rows of urinals divided by privacy partitions. European bathrooms don’t feature individual urinals. Instead, there’s a trough that can accommodate several occupants at once.
Do toilets have bidets?
In America, toilet stalls feature mounted toilet paper dispensers for occupants to clean themselves once they’re finished. In Europe, toilet paper is certainly an option for sanitation, but most occupants overseas prefer to use the bidet for cleaning themselves post toilet use.
Do toilets have dual flushing?
However, the newer toilets feature a dual-flush system. The toilets feature two different handles that offer varying water and water pressure, depending on the amount of waste, which can actually help conserve water.
Does European toilet have a pull chain?
The feature works fine; however, Europe has a few variations on flushing that may pique your interests. Older toilets found in European bathrooms feature a pull chain that’s mounted about the actual toilet that requires the occupant to pull when finished. However, the newer toilets feature a dual-flush system.
Why are dual flush toilets so popular?
Dual flush toilets are valued in Europe because they positively impact water conservation efforts as users can opt for a single-flush rather than a full-flush. Advertisement.
What is bidet in toilet?
In Europe, bidets are offered as a post-use cleaning option. Bidets are traditionally addition structures that resemble a pedestal urinal mounted next to the toilet. After using the toilet, you squat over the bidet and press a button that released a gentle stream of water to clean you.
What is a bidet in a bathroom?
Bidets are common fixtures in European bathrooms . If you've ever traveled in Europe, you may have encountered some unexpected differences in both public and private bathrooms. European toilets differ from American style toilets in terms of size, flush performance and built-in amenities.
What is the purpose of a toilet siphon?
Most American toilets use siphoning or sucking action to forcibly draw the used toilet water through toilet trap and into the attached sewer plumbing. The neck of the toilet hole is small enough to facilitate suction, a design choice that often necessitates the use of a plunger in the case of a clog. European toilets typically utilize ...
Is there a toilet in Europe?
Though most American toilets are recognizable across state lines, not all areas of Europe feature the same standard design when it comes to toilets. In most major European cities, you'll likely find public toilets that are similar to American toilets in terms of their design. These toilets feature a toilet seat, ...
What is the difference between a European toilet and an American toilet?
Only European toilets use that flushing system – this style is called the washdown flush system. American toilets use the Siphonic flushing system. For the American toilets, there is a long and narrow reverse ‘S’ or ‘P’ trap with two ends. One end is connected to the toilet bowl and the other end is connected to the drain pipe which is underneath ...
Why do European toilets have a single handle?
The reason for the dual push system is to help conserve water. In flushing an European toilet, the first push button (or partial push or small button) is to flush down liquid waste while the second push (or big button push) ...
How does a toilet trap work?
One end is connected to the toilet bowl and the other end is connected to the drain pipe which is underneath the toilet bowl. The aim of the technical design is to create a siphoning action when flushing. The siphon is so strong that no matter how heavy the waste product is, it gets ‘siphoned’ out with the water. At the end of the flush, there is a gurgling sound signaling the bowl is filled with water and ready for the next flush.
What is one point partitioning in a toilet?
The toilets make use of One Point Partition style of partitioning which has exposed foot and top gaps between the toilet stall doors and frames. This is way different from what you get to see in European toilets.
Where are squat toilets common?
The Squat toilet is common in the eastern and southern parts of Europe. Instead of the standard sitting bowls found in many American toilets. Squat toilets make use of a hole nicely placed on the floor with ceramics that offer good grip when the user ‘squats’ to use the toilet. Squat toilets come in variations.
Do European toilets have urinals?
Urinals in European toilets are different and offer no privacy as they are built to accommodate several men at once. European toilets are straight up on the wall, can accommodate several men and has just one drain. For European lavatories, they have a lot of interesting options. The first is the Squat toilet.
Can you use toilet paper in the after?
In American toilets, you get to find mounted toilet paper for “the after” cleaning. There are also more sustainable toilet paper options available. European toilets on the other hand make use of bidets – a low oval basin or a standalone fixture near the toilet that sprays water, which people can use for cleaning their genital and anal area.
What is a European toilet?
The vast majority of European toilets are similar to our own. But in a few out-of-the-way places, you might find one that consists simply of porcelain footprints and a squat-and-aim hole. If faced with a squat toilet, remember: Those of us who need a throne to sit on are in the minority. Throughout the world, most humans sit on their haunches and nothing more. Sometimes called "Turkish toilets," these are more commonly found in, well, Turkey.
Where are Turkish toilets found?
Sometimes called "Turkish toilets," these are more commonly found in, well, Turkey. Getting comfortable in foreign restrooms takes a little adjusting, but that's travel. When in Rome, do as the Romans do — and before you know it, you'll be Euro-peein'.
Where are coin op toilets?
Coin-op Toilets on the Street. Some large cities, such as Paris, London, and Amsterdam, are dotted with coin-operated, telephone-booth-type WCs on street corners. Insert a coin, the door opens, and you have 15 minutes of toilet use accompanied by Sinatra Muzak. When you leave, the entire chamber disinfects itself.
How much do you tip at a toilet?
Most common is the tip dish by the entry — the local equivalent of about 50 cents is plenty. Caution: Many attendants leave only bills and too-big coins in the tray to bewilder the full-bladdered tourist. The keepers of Europe's public toilets have earned a reputation for crabbiness. You'd be crabby, too, if you lived under the street in a room full of public toilets. Humor them, understand them, and carry some change so you can leave them a coin or two.
What does it mean when you see a wastebasket?
If you see an wastebasket near the toilet with used toilet paper in it, that's a sign that the sewer system isn't up to snuff. Put your used TP in the wastebasket instead of flushing it. (The rule of thumb in those places: Don't put anything in the toilet unless you've eaten it first.)
How to find a restroom?
No restaurateur would label his WC so those on the street can see, but you can walk into nearly any restaurant or café, politely and confidently, and find a bathroom. Assume it's somewhere in the back, either upstairs or downstairs. It's easiest in large places that have outdoor seating — waiters will think you're a customer just making a quick trip inside. Some call it rude; I call it survival. If you feel like it, ask permission. Just smile, "Toilet?" I'm rarely turned down. American-type fast-food places are very common and usually have a decent and fairly accessible "public" restroom. Timid people buy a drink they don't want in order to use the bathroom, but that's generally unnecessary (although sometimes the secret bathroom door code is printed only on your receipt).
Is it worth paying for a public toilet?
Paying to use a public WC is a European custom that irks some Americans. But isn't it really worth a few coins, considering the cost of water, maintenance, and cleanliness? And you're probably in no state to argue, anyway. Coin-operated toilets are the norm at highway rest areas, train stations, and even at some sights. (Many coin-op WCs have self-cleaning toilet seats; stick around after you're done to watch the show.)
Why are there two toilets in Europe?
If you visit countries like France, Italy and Portugal, or venture further afield to East Asia, Latin America and the Middle East, you are likely to come across two toilets in the bathroom. However, while one of the systems most definitely is a toilet for human wastage, the other serves a different purpose.
When was the bidet invented?
The bidet is believed to be a French invention, although the true origins of its creation remain unknown. It made its first appearance in the late 17th century and the first written account of a bidet appeared in 1726 in Italy.
Can you use a bidet in the UK?
You have likely heard of bidet but may not have come across one in the UK, as they are not installed as standard in UK homes or even in most hotels. It offers a very hygienic way of washing your behind after you have gone to toilet and works as a mini shower that cleans the skin and removes any lingering faeces.
Can you use a toilet paper to dry your skin?
If you are in a public space and there is towel nearby make sure this is only used for your hands and not your rear! There is usually a built-in air dryer in the bidet you can use to dry your skin. If not, you may need to use a little toilet paper to dry yourself before getting up and organising yourself to leave.
Flushing & Water Usage
Post-Use Sanitation
- In America, toilet stalls feature mounted toilet paper dispensers for occupants to clean themselves once they’re finished. In Europe, toilet paper is certainly an option for sanitation, but most occupants overseas prefer to use the bidet for cleaning themselves post toilet use. Bidets feature a mounted spout that sprays water when the occupant is in place and able to press a but…
Toilet Types
- Americans have the standard toilet bowl and urinal in restrooms, while Europeans have a few varying options. Squat toilets, found in southern and eastern Europe, are essentially a hole in the floor. The rest of Europe features the toilets similar to those found in America. As for the urinals, American bathrooms feature rows of urinals divided by pr...
Costs of Using The Toilet
- Public restrooms in America don’t require a payment for use, but the “customers only” rule may apply. Some public restrooms in Europe actually require a fee to use the toilet. The fee is usually 1.5 Euros to gain access to the restroom.
Partitions & Privacy
- While almost all toilets around the globe are private, there are noticeable differences between American and European toilet partitions. American partitions offer a good deal of privacy, but the exposed feet and top, combined with the sight lines between the door and frame, may make some occupants a bit uncomfortable. European toilets offer exceptional privacy because instead of a t…
Adapting Your Restroom to Bring The Best of Both Worlds
- Now that you’re aware of some of the notable differences between American and European toilets and bathrooms, you can perhaps come up with some ideas of how you can improve the restroom in your facility. While you may not want to choose the squatting toilet, you can probably take notes of the privacy offered by European restrooms and bring it your facility for an improved experienc…