Global Bathroom Etiquette: Essential Insights for Travelers

Understanding local customs while traveling can be challenging. While it's tricky to know when to tip or if shaking hands is appropriate, navigating bathroom etiquette can be even more complicated. Which countries require you to dispose of toilet paper instead of flushing? Should you expect to squat or sit? And in which places do you need to pay for restroom access? These are uncomfortable but important questions to consider.

While many locals may excuse tourists for not knowing bathroom norms, it’s wise to familiarize yourself with proper practices when nature calls. A misstep could lead to awkward situations, such as a clogged toilet, which can be quite embarrassing.

Before you pack for your next international journey, familiarize yourself with these essential facts about bathroom etiquette worldwide.

Some European cities have tip jars in restrooms.

In the past, visitors often had to pay to use public restrooms in popular European destinations like London and Paris. Today, many of these facilities are free due to ethical considerations, though exceptions exist — Amsterdam still has pay-to-use toilets. When a restroom is staffed by a cleaner, it's customary to leave a tip. Be cautious, as attendants may place large bills in the tip jars to mislead tourists. A small tip of around $.50 to $1 is generally sufficient.

In some parts of Asia, toilets are designed for squatting.

If you've used a public restroom in Singapore, Thailand, India, or China, you've likely encountered a squat toilet. These toilets are prevalent in various Asian nations. Squatting is considered healthier and more natural for the body, which may explain the use of in-ground toilets with footrests on either side. When using a squat toilet, ensure your pockets are empty or secure, position yourself facing the door, and utilize any available flushing mechanism or bucket. Watch for splashback to avoid soiling your clothes for the rest of the day.

Flushing toilet paper may lead to clogs in these countries.

One of the most awkward situations in a public restroom is causing a blockage, often due to flushing toilet paper where it's not allowed. Certain places have narrow pipes or lack systems that efficiently break down toilet paper, making it customary to dispose of it in a waste bin instead or to use a bidet. Countries where you typically shouldn’t flush toilet paper include Turkey, Greece, China, Montenegro, Egypt, and rural areas of South America.

Bring your own toilet paper in China and South Korea.

In countries like China and South Korea, it’s common practice to carry your own toilet paper. The primary reason public restrooms often lack toilet paper is due to theft. In response to rampant pilfering, some Chinese public toilets even installed facial recognition systems in the late 2010s. It's wise to have some tissue on hand during your travels — you never know when it will come in handy.

Bidets are a standard fixture outside the U.S.

Bidets are a common feature outside the U.S., particularly in Europe, Asia, and parts of South America. Originating in France, you’ll still find them in many French bathrooms today. In many regions, bidets are not only preferred over toilet paper but are essential in places where paper products are scarce. Be prepared to encounter one when using public restrooms in Italy, Portugal, Japan, Argentina, or Venezuela.

Bathroom terminology varies around the world.

When nature calls, there's no time to let a language barrier hold you back. It's helpful to learn local terms for asking about restrooms. Generally, the term "toilet" is more widely recognized than "bathroom" or "restroom," which are common in the U.S. In Canada, it’s referred to as a "washroom." In England, you might hear "W.C." (short for "water closet") or "loo." Across Europe, both "W.C." and "toilette" are acceptable. In Australia, you may encounter the term "dunny," and in Japan, you can use "benjo" in casual settings.