Mastering Iranian Toilets: Etiquette, Types & Tips
Traveling to a new country often brings with it a unique set of cultural nuances, and sometimes, the most basic aspects of daily life can present the biggest surprises. For those planning a trip to Iran, understanding the local restroom facilities is one such area that can significantly impact your comfort and overall experience. Navigating the world of Iranian toilets, from their design to the unwritten rules of etiquette, is a crucial step in ensuring a smoother and more comfortable journey.
While the topic might seem trivial, being prepared for what you’ll encounter in Iranian restrooms can save you from awkward situations and enhance your appreciation for local customs. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the various types of toilets you’ll find across the country, offer practical advice on their use, and shed light on the essential etiquette that will help you blend in seamlessly.
Table of Contents:
- The Unique Landscape of Iranian Toilets
- Navigating Iranian Toilet Etiquette
- Mastering the Squat: Practical Tips for Beginners
- The Reality of Public Restrooms in Iran
- Toilet Facilities in Different Settings
- Beyond the Basics: Hygiene and Comfort
- Common Misconceptions and What to Expect
The Unique Landscape of Iranian Toilets
When you first arrive in Iran, one of the immediate observations you might make is the difference in toilet facilities compared to what you’re accustomed to in many Western countries. Iranian toilets are not the same as Western toilets, and understanding these distinctions is key to a hassle-free experience. The primary difference lies in the prevalence of squat toilets, though Western-style facilities are becoming increasingly common in certain settings.
Squat Toilets: The Predominant Fixture
The traditional Iranian toilet, often referred to as the Asian toilet or oriental toilet, is a squat toilet. These are essentially a ceramic basin set into the floor, requiring users to squat over them rather than sit. Squat toilets are predominant in Asian countries, including Iran, and are widely used across the nation. They are particularly common in public places, older establishments, and many traditional homes.
For a beginner, having to use a squat toilet might seem gross or difficult. The idea of squatting rather than sitting can be daunting, and some might even find it challenging physically. However, beyond tradition, squat toilets in Iran are regarded as healthy by many. Proponents suggest that the squatting position is more natural for bodily functions, potentially aiding in better bowel movements and reducing strain. This perspective often contrasts with Western perceptions, where seated toilets are the norm.
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The design of these toilets is straightforward: a porcelain or ceramic basin with a drain at one end, and often a small hose or bucket of water nearby for cleansing. You will find that squat toilet in Iran is similar to what you can expect in many countries of Asia, including China and India. They are also widespread in Turkey (alaturka tuvalet), Nepal, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Iraq, and can even be found in nations like Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and Singapore, showcasing their widespread adoption across the continent.
Western Toilets: A Growing Presence
While squat toilets are the traditional and most common type, it’s important to note that you can find a Western toilet in houses and hotels as well. In fact, most more modern places will have Western toilets. Newer homes might even have both types of toilets, offering residents and guests a choice. This duality is also true for public washrooms in more contemporary establishments, though squat toilets are still more common in general public spaces.
For travelers accustomed to seated toilets, the increasing availability of Western-style facilities is a welcome development. Many hotels, especially those catering to international tourists, almost exclusively feature Western toilets. The homes I visited there all had Western toilets, some also with squat toilets. This means that if you are staying in well-established hotels or visiting modern residences, your chances of encountering a familiar seated toilet are quite high. I visited Iran in 2016 and thank god I did not ever have to squat to go #2 when I was there, a sentiment shared by many who prefer the comfort of a Western toilet.
You can find flush toilets in modern houses, hotels, and most cafes and restaurants, especially in larger cities. Also, except for hotels, upscale restaurants, and some rest areas, there are no Western toilets available everywhere. This highlights a clear distinction: while modern amenities are growing, traditional squat toilets remain the default in many areas, particularly outside of major tourist hubs or newer constructions.
Navigating Iranian Toilet Etiquette
Beyond the physical differences in toilet types, understanding the associated etiquette is crucial for a smoother and more comfortable journey. The most significant departure from Western toilet habits revolves around toilet paper and cleansing methods.
Firstly, what I didn't know was that you usually can't flush paper down the toilet. This is a vital piece of information. Unlike Western systems designed to handle toilet paper, Iranian plumbing systems are often not equipped for it. Flushing paper can lead to blockages, which are inconvenient for everyone. Instead, you will almost always be asked to put paper in a small bin provided next to the toilet. This bin is specifically for used toilet paper and other sanitary waste.
Secondly, the method of cleansing is different. Nobody told me that when you go to toilet in Iran, the paper is clean, not soiled as in Western-style toilet technique. This is because water is the primary method of cleansing. Most Iranian toilets, both squat and Western-style, will have a small hose (often called an aftabeh or bidet spray) or a bucket and scoop nearby. This water is used for personal hygiene after using the toilet. The toilet paper, if used, is primarily for drying or for initial wiping before water cleansing, hence why it remains "clean" in the Western sense of being soiled.
This water-based cleansing is a deeply ingrained cultural practice, rooted in Islamic hygiene principles. It is considered more thorough and hygienic than paper alone. Therefore, when you see a hose or a bucket, understand its purpose and be prepared to use it. It is also worth mentioning that most toilets you might find in cities don’t have toilet papers (water is the replacement in every sense). This reinforces the importance of the water-based cleansing method and the expectation that toilet paper is not always provided.
Mastering the Squat: Practical Tips for Beginners
For those unfamiliar with squat toilets, the initial encounter can be a bit daunting. However, mastering the art of squat toilets in Iran is entirely achievable with a few practical tips. While it might seem gross or difficult to a beginner, many travelers adapt quickly.
One useful piece of advice I encountered was from someone who prepared in advance: "For a few months before going to Iran, I practiced holding a squat for a minute or so two or three times a week. It was time well spent." This pre-trip practice can significantly improve your comfort and stability when you encounter your first squat toilet. Strengthening your leg muscles and improving your balance can make the experience much smoother.
When using a squat toilet, proper positioning is key. You need to face away from the end of the toilet with the drain. This ensures that your waste goes directly into the drain and helps maintain cleanliness. Additionally, it’s advisable not to lower your trousers too much. This helps prevent them from touching the potentially wet or unclean floor, and also makes it easier to pull them back up. Keep your clothing bunched up around your knees or hold it up to keep it clear of the floor and the basin.
For stability, some squat toilets have textured footrests on either side of the basin. Place your feet firmly on these. Maintain a balanced squat, keeping your back straight and leaning slightly forward. If there's a handle or rail available, use it for support. Remember, the goal is to be comfortable and stable enough to complete your business without losing balance or making a mess. With a little practice, the squat toilet can become less intimidating and even quite efficient.
The Reality of Public Restrooms in Iran
While hotels and modern homes often offer clean and well-maintained facilities, the reality of public restrooms in Iran can be a stark contrast. This is an area where expectations should be managed to avoid disappointment.
There is no worst place than public or restaurant toilets in Iran where they are almost always dirty with wet floors. This is a common complaint among travelers. The combination of water-based cleansing and sometimes infrequent cleaning can lead to perpetually wet and muddy floors, especially with the genius of using white floor tiles that get muddied with the first use. These conditions can make navigating the restroom challenging and unappealing.
Beyond the wet floors, many public restrooms also suffer from poor ventilation and sanitation. Most stink so bad you have to rush out for air. This unpleasant odor is often a result of inadequate cleaning, poor drainage, and the accumulation of waste. Furthermore, walls and faucets are usually covered with grimy crud. This lack of cleanliness extends to the fixtures themselves, which can appear neglected and unsanitary.
Another crucial point for public restrooms is the scarcity of toilet paper. Bring toilet paper with you because most public restrooms don’t have it. This is a golden rule for any traveler in Iran. Always carry a roll or at least a packet of tissues with you. While water is the primary cleansing method, having paper for drying or for situations where water isn't available (or where you prefer not to use it) is essential. Hand soap can also be hit or miss, so carrying a small bottle of hand sanitizer is also highly recommended.
Toilet Facilities in Different Settings
The type and quality of toilet facilities you encounter in Iran can vary significantly depending on your location and the type of establishment. Understanding these differences will help you anticipate what to expect.
Hotels: In all the hotels I stayed in and in three quarters of the restaurants, there were Western-style toilets nearly always with toilet paper. This is generally true for hotels, especially those rated three stars and above, and those frequented by international tourists. Hotels prioritize guest comfort, so you can usually expect clean, well-maintained Western toilets with toilet paper and often soap. This makes hotels a reliable oasis for familiar facilities.
Homes: There are toilets in all houses, hotels, hostels, and ecolodges in Iran. As mentioned, newer homes might have both types of toilets, or exclusively Western ones. The homes I visited there all had Western toilets, some also with squat toilets. This means that if you are staying with locals or in modern residences, you are likely to find a comfortable and clean Western-style toilet. In traditional or older homes, squat toilets are more common, but cleanliness is usually maintained by the residents.
Public Places (e.g., parks, bus stations, rest stops): Squat toilets are more common in public places. These are the locations where you are most likely to encounter the less-than-ideal conditions described earlier – wet floors, lack of paper, and general grubbiness. Be prepared with your own supplies and manage your expectations regarding cleanliness.
Cafes and Restaurants: You can find flush toilets in modern houses, hotels, and most cafes and restaurants. Upscale restaurants and modern cafes, particularly in city centers, are increasingly offering Western-style toilets. However, smaller, more traditional eateries might still have squat toilets. It's a good idea to check before you commit, if possible, or simply be prepared for either.
Hostels and Ecolodges: These establishments generally have toilets, and the type can vary. Hostels catering to backpackers might have a mix, with some communal squat toilets and perhaps a few Western ones. Ecolodges, especially those promoting a traditional or rustic experience, might lean more towards squat toilets, but they are usually well-maintained within their context.
Beyond the Basics: Hygiene and Comfort
While the primary focus is on the physical act of using the toilet, ensuring personal hygiene and comfort is equally important for a positive travel experience in Iran. Given the varying standards of public restrooms, proactive measures are highly recommended.
Firstly, always carry a personal hygiene kit. This should include:
- Toilet paper or tissues: As emphasized, many public restrooms don’t provide it.
- Hand sanitizer: Soap can be scarce, especially in public facilities.
- Small towel or quick-dry cloth: For drying hands or for personal use after water cleansing.
- Wet wipes: For general cleaning or when water is not easily accessible.
Secondly, consider the psychological aspect. Having to use a squat toilet might seem gross or difficult to a beginner, but adopting a flexible mindset can help. At least, you ‘control’ the cleanliness of your own toilet when you're in a private setting like a hotel room or a friend's home. However, in shared public spaces, the shared toilet was not cleaned for the 3 days I was there, a common observation. This underscores the importance of personal preparedness and a realistic outlook.
While the luxury of toilets in 5-star hotels in Hong Kong with fancy porcelain and attendants who give you real hand towels after washing your hands, and even compliment your appearance, might be a distant dream in most Iranian public restrooms, it's a good reminder of what high standards can exist. In Iran, the focus is more on functionality and traditional hygiene practices. Adapting to this means embracing the water-based cleansing and being prepared for less-than-pristine conditions in some public areas.
Common Misconceptions and What to Expect
Travelers often arrive in Iran with preconceived notions about its facilities, and it’s important to clarify these to set realistic expectations and avoid surprises.
One common misconception is that all toilets in Iran are squat toilets. While it's true that most toilets in Iran are squat toilets or what most people call the Iranian toilet, this is not universally true. As discussed, Western-style toilets are increasingly available, particularly in modern establishments and tourist-friendly areas. So, while you should be prepared for squat toilets, don't assume they are the only option.
Another point of confusion for Western travelers is the role of toilet paper. The idea that "the paper is clean, not soiled as in Western-style toilet technique" often takes people by surprise. This is directly linked to the water-based cleansing method. The paper is for drying or light wiping, not for the primary clean. This cultural difference in hygiene is fundamental to understanding Iranian restrooms.
Expect a learning curve, especially if you're new to squat toilets. In this video I give you some tips on squat toilets, which might be helpful if you're a beginner. Learning how to position yourself, balance, and use the water effectively takes a bit of practice, but it's a skill quickly acquired. The key is to approach it with an open mind and a willingness to adapt.
Finally, expect variability in cleanliness. While hotels and private homes generally offer good standards, public restrooms can range from acceptable to quite poor. The images of "dirty with wet floors," "stink so bad," and "walls and faucets are usually covered with grimy crud" are unfortunately not uncommon in some public facilities. Being prepared for this, both mentally and with your hygiene kit, will make the experience much more manageable.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of Iranian toilets is an integral part of the travel experience in this fascinating country. From understanding the prevalence of squat toilets and their associated etiquette to knowing where to find Western-style facilities, being prepared can significantly enhance your comfort and enjoyment. Remember to always carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer, be open to the water-based cleansing method, and manage your expectations regarding the cleanliness of public restrooms.
By embracing these practical tips and cultural insights, you'll find that what initially seemed like a daunting aspect of travel quickly becomes a manageable and even interesting part of your journey. So, pack your bags, prepare your hygiene kit, and embark on your Iranian adventure with confidence. Have you visited Iran? Share your own experiences and tips regarding Iranian toilets in the comments below!
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