How to Use Squat Toilets in China: A Practical Guide for Foreign Visitors
Most public toilets in China are squat-style. Western-style seated toilets exist, but you will mainly find them in shopping malls, hotels, airports, and higher-end restaurants. Learning the basic squatting technique before your trip will make your travel experience much more comfortable.
What to Expect
Squat toilets are the standard in most public places across China. They are essentially porcelain fixtures flush with the floor, with footrests on either side. This design is considered more hygienic by many Chinese people because there is no direct contact with the fixture.
For foreign visitors from Western countries, squat toilets can be intimidating at first. The “Asian squat” requires ankle flexibility and balance that many Westerners have not developed. However, with some practice and the right technique, most travelers adapt quickly.
Public toilets in China are generally abundant. In most cities, you can usually find one within a 10-minute walk. They range from basic facilities in parks and train stations to very clean, modern restrooms in shopping malls and airports.
How to Use a Squat Toilet
Using a squat toilet requires some technique, especially if you have never done it before. Here is a step-by-step approach:
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Position yourself correctly. Stand on the footrests with your feet shoulder-width apart, facing the hooded end of the fixture (the part with the water tank or flush mechanism).
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Lower yourself gradually. Bend your knees and lower your body into a squatting position. Keep your weight on your heels rather than your toes for better balance.
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Use support if needed. Many public toilet stalls have a handrail or you can hold onto the door frame for balance, especially when you are first learning.
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Maintain modesty. Keep your clothing pulled up and out of the way to avoid contact with the floor or fixture.
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Flush after use. Flush mechanisms vary. Some have a button, others have a foot pedal, and some require you to pull a chain or press a lever on the wall.
Where to Find Western Toilets
Western-style seated toilets are available in specific locations throughout China. If you prefer seated toilets, plan your bathroom breaks around these places:
- Shopping malls. Most modern malls in major cities have Western toilets, often in cleaner facilities near the food courts.
- Hotels. International hotel chains and higher-end domestic hotels almost always have Western toilets in guest rooms and public areas.
- Airports. All airports have Western toilets, typically in larger numbers than squat toilets.
- Upscale restaurants. Restaurants catering to international customers often have Western toilets.
- Tourist attractions. Major attractions in big cities may have both options, but smaller or older sites might only have squat toilets.
In smaller cities and rural areas, Western toilets become much harder to find. Always be prepared to use a squat toilet when traveling outside major urban centers.
Essential Tips for Using Public Toilets
Bring your own supplies. Toilet paper is rarely provided in public restrooms in China. Always carry a small pack of tissues or toilet paper with you. You can buy these at convenience stores, but it is better to have some with you before you need it.
Some additional tips:
- Expect a small fee. Some public toilets charge 0.5 to 2 RMB. Keep small change handy.
- Check the lock. Door locks may work differently or may be broken. Some travelers prefer to have a companion guard the door.
- Dispose of paper properly. In many places, you should dispose of toilet paper in the provided bin rather than flushing it, as pipes may be narrow.
- Bring hand sanitizer. Soap is not always available at sinks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many first-time visitors make avoidable mistakes when using public toilets in China:
- Not carrying toilet paper. This is the most common mistake. Always have tissues with you.
- Assuming all malls have Western toilets. While many do, some older or budget malls may only have squat toilets.
- Waiting too long to find a restroom. Do not assume the next attraction or restaurant will have a Western toilet. Use the restroom when you see a suitable facility.
- Forgetting small change. If a toilet charges a fee, you may need exact change.
Building Confidence
The thought of using squat toilets should not deter you from visiting China. Most travelers adapt within a day or two. Start by using Western toilets in malls and hotels, and gradually try squat toilets when convenient. With practice, you will find them manageable.
Remember that millions of people use squat toilets daily without issue. The design is practical, hygienic, and common throughout Asia. Approaching it with an open mind will help you adjust more quickly.
Final words
More reading and next steps
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