In recent years, the floor toilet has become a significant topic of discussion in China, reflecting cultural practices, hygiene standards, and urban development. Understanding this unique sanitation system offers insights into the daily lives of millions and the evolution of public health in the country.

This guide will explore the history, design, and functionality of floor toilets, shedding light on their advantages and challenges. Readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of how these toilets impact hygiene, convenience, and cultural norms in various settings.

Additionally, we will delve into the environmental implications and the ongoing debates surrounding sanitation practices in urban and rural areas. By the end of this guide, readers will be equipped with knowledge about floor toilets, fostering a deeper appreciation for this essential aspect of Chinese life.

How to Use a Squat Toilet in China

Using squat toilets in China may not be on a traveler’s “top 10 list” for their vacation, but it usually becomes a part of their Chinese experience. Public restrooms are getting more and more sanitary in China, but some are still shocking. China is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world, and this is with good reason. Tourism and toilets are well-developed at sights like the Forbidden City, and starred hotels are usually of a high standard, despite China being a developing country. However, one thing that many people find surprising when they first get to China is the squat toilet.

Understanding Squat Toilets

Squat toilets are not commonly seen in most of the Western world. In China, it’s more likely than not that a person will walk into a restroom and find a toilet that is level with the floor. These toilets require a bit of getting used to, but they are not excessively difficult to use. The majority of a person’s problems come from not being well-versed on how to use the toilets.

Technical Features of Squat Toilets

Here’s a comparison of the technical features of squat toilets:

Feature	Description
Design	A hole in the ground, often with foot grooves for stability.
Flushing Mechanism	Can be a manual flush (handle or bucket) or automatic flush.
Hygiene	Generally considered more hygienic as there is no direct contact with the seat.
Accessibility	May vary; some locations have no doors or privacy.
Maintenance	Cleanliness can vary widely depending on location and management.

Types of Squat Toilets

There are different types of squat toilets found across China. Here’s a comparison of the main types:

Type	Description
Traditional Squat	Basic design with a hole and foot grooves, often found in rural areas.
Modern Squat	Equipped with flushing mechanisms and better hygiene features, found in urban areas.
Trough Style	A long, open trough where users squat side by side, often seen in older facilities.
Western-Style Option	Available in many hotels and tourist areas, providing a seated option.

What to Expect: Cleanliness of Squat Toilets in China

The cleanliness of squat toilets is very much dependent on where you are in China. If you are in a high-end mall in the middle of Shanghai, or an airport, you can expect the toilets to be frequently checked by staff and regularly mopped. However, if you find yourself in a no-name village in the hills, be prepared for a more primitive experience.

In general, the cleanliness level is improving as China develops. You will usually find yourself in a public toilet that is comparable to most Western public restrooms. There’ll usually be stalls, a cleaning lady at the ready, and if you’re going to the men’s restroom, a few gentlemen standing around having a quick cigarette before going back to work.

Before Heading Out

Using squat toilets actually requires a bit of planning before you even leave your hotel or airport. Good advice is to use the bathroom before leaving. Many people also plan pit stops at shopping malls, fancy restaurants, and international hotels, since these places usually have Western toilets.

Many public restrooms do not provide toilet tissue, so it’s a great idea to pack some before heading out for the day. If you find yourself needing to go but don’t have any toilet paper, you can either buy some from a nearby store or find a nicer-looking restaurant that provides it for customers.

At the Restroom

Before going into a bathroom, it’s advisable to have a friend or family member hold your bags. This is because there are usually no hooks to hang these bags on, and both hands will be needed for balance. After ensuring you have your toilet tissue, you may have to get in line for a toilet.

Many restrooms have both Western and squat toilets, and some even have signs indicating which toilet a stall contains. It’s not customary to simply hang back and wait for a stall to open, so choose one stall’s line and stick with it.

Going in for the Squat

Squat toilets aren’t terribly difficult once you know how to use them. The first thing to remember is that, even for men, the position to use these toilets is facing forward. Stand with your feet on either side of the squat toilet, ensuring your feet are flat and positioned correctly.

Once you are ready, let your pants down to halfway down your thighs and squat over the toilet. It’s important not to allow clothing to touch the floor, even if the place seems clean. After finishing, you might notice a sign asking you not to flush your toilet paper, and a bin next to you filled with used tissue.

Tips for Using Squat Toilets

Bring Your Own Toilet Paper: Always carry your own toilet paper, as many public toilets do not provide it.
Avoid Flushing Toilet Paper: Dispose of used toilet paper in the bin provided, as plumbing often cannot handle it.
Use Hand Sanitizer: Many public restrooms lack soap, so carry hand sanitizer for hygiene.
Watch Your Bags: There are usually no hooks, so have someone hold your bags or keep them out of the way.
Practice Squatting: If you’re not used to squatting, practice beforehand to avoid balance issues.

Conclusion

Using a squat toilet in China can be a unique experience that requires some preparation and understanding. While they may seem intimidating at first, with a little practice and knowledge, you can navigate them with confidence. Remember to plan ahead, bring your own supplies, and maintain a sense of humor about the experience.

FAQs

1. Are squat toilets common in China?
Yes, squat toilets are very common in public places across China, especially in rural areas.

2. Do I need to bring my own toilet paper?
Yes, it is advisable to carry your own toilet paper, as many public restrooms do not provide it.

3. How do I flush a squat toilet?
Most squat toilets have a flushing mechanism, but some may require you to use a bucket of water to flush manually.

4. Are squat toilets hygienic?
Many people find squat toilets to be more hygienic since you do not sit on a potentially dirty seat.

5. Can I find Western-style toilets in China?
Yes, Western-style toilets are available in many hotels, airports, and tourist attractions, but squat toilets are still prevalent.