Q&A for How to Use a Squat Toilet

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  • Question
    Public restrooms with squat toilets sometimes don't give a lot of privacy because they are wide open to other people in the restroom. That's not a problem if I need to pee, but what if I need to poop?
    Community Answer
    Go quickly and be discreet. I always bring a sweater to place over my crotch area to cover my private parts while going. Understand that this is a normal part of life. Everyone looks the same going, so don’t be embarrassed.
  • Question
    What do I use to dry myself after using the spray or bucket?
    Community Answer
    If you brought some, toilet paper. You can also bring a small towel that you use just for drying and keep it in a large Ziploc bag in your backpack, purse, etc.
  • Question
    What if I fall in that hole?
    Community Answer
    You cannot fall in the hole, as it is usually too small to fall down. Just be careful not to fall in your own waste.
  • Question
    Can little kids/baby's use the squat toilet?
    Community Answer
    Yes, children can use a squat toilet. Just show them what they will have to do and if they are very young, you can help them.
  • Question
    How can I safely use squat lavatories that are filthy?
    WikiHowUser20171109012036
    Community Answer
    Keep your shoes on, and make sure not to touch the floor. When flushing, use your foot.
  • Question
    What if I am constipated?
    Community Answer
    This position is best for constipated person. It puts pressure on your bowels and the wastage comes out easily.
  • Question
    What if someone looks at me while I'm going?
    Mjbg
    Community Answer
    Chances are, nobody will look at you. Mind your own business and don't feel embarrassed, because in other countries squat toilets are very normalized, and we all look the same while going!
  • Question
    Can I adapt an existing toilet for squatting?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can, but I do not recommend it. However, you can sit down as usual and put a small chair or bucket under your feet to lift them up. It gives the same feeling as using a squat toilet.
  • Question
    Can boys use the squat toilet?
    Community Answer
    Yes, it's perfectly fine for boys to use squat toilets. They just need to be careful when urinating to avoid making a mess.
  • Question
    Does it work better to tightly bunch my pants around my knees?
    Community Answer
    If this position is comfortable for you, it may be better.
  • Question
    If the squat toilet is out in the open, how can I cover up my privates so that nobody sees them?
    Mjbg
    Community Answer
    You can put a sweater around your crotch area to cover your private parts. However, nobody will be looking. Restrooms are single gender, and everyone has the same parts!
  • Question
    How do I pee into one of these things?
    Community Answer
    You pee in it by squatting over it and aiming.
  • Question
    I had knee surgery and can't squat anymore. How would I use a squat toilet?
    Community Answer
    You probably can't; check to see if there is a sitting toilet reserved for disabled people. Usually, there should be a typical sit down toilet available for the disabled.
  • Question
    Are squat toilets out in the open, or is each one given privacy?
    Community Answer
    Sometimes squat toilets are concealed with a privacy stall, and other times there will not be privacy.
  • Question
    Do I need to be from a particular area to use the squat toilet?
    Community Answer
    No, you don't have to be from any specific area to use a squat toilet.
  • Question
    How do I pee in a bathroom using a squat toilet?
    Community Answer
    Either stand or squat.
  • Question
    What do I do with my pants?
    Community Answer
    Take them off. That's easier, plus you don't need to worry about soiling them. Same with your underwear.
  • Question
    How can I feel less uncomfortable about people seeing me when using a squat toilet if it is out in the open?
    Community Answer
    Even if it's out in the open, you have to mind your own business. Just don't mind them, and they won't care about you either.
  • Question
    Do I have to squat while pooping? I have trouble squatting.
    Community Answer
    Usually there is a piece of ceramic that juts out from the end and you can lean on that. If there isn't, there is a normal toilet in the last stall.
  • Question
    How do I squat on a Western toilet?
    Community Answer
    There are stools you can purchase and place on your toilet so you can squat. You can also just stand on the toilet and squat down, but it's awfully hard to keep your balance doing that.
  • Question
    Can I take my shoes off to use a squat toilet?
    Community Answer
    You can, but it would probably be more sanitary to leave them on.
  • Question
    How do I get back up from a squatting position?
    Community Answer
    You stand up, backwards from the way you initially squatted.
  • Question
    Can I travel with my own toilet paper?
    Community Answer
    Yes, it is a good idea to bring your own toilet paper, especially if you are not familiar with the process.
  • Question
    Is there a sink for hand washing? Does it have soap?
    Community Answer
    Yes, all bathrooms have sinks and soap. If there isn't any soap, just let the manager of the establishment know.
  • Question
    Is using a squat toilet real or fake?
    Community Answer
    Real. People actually do this, usually in Japan. Squat toilets are extremely rare everywhere else.
  • Question
    How can I make the disposal less disgusting while on my period?
    Community Answer
    If there is toilet paper, wrap your waste in that, and stuff it in the bottom of the bin. If you have your period in the loo, put paper on top of it.
  • Question
    Are the bathrooms single-gender?
    Community Answer
    Yes, since toilets are out in the open.
  • Question
    How do I use a squat toilet as a male? Can I pee while squatting?
    Community Answer
    You can squat, but it might be uncomfortable. You'll probably instead want to stand, aim and pee like men usually do.
  • Question
    Who uses squat toilets?
    Aasim
    Top Answerer
    Squat toilets are used around the world, although they are less common in Western countries. The primary reason is that it reduces constipation as compared to Western-style toilets.
  • Question
    What if I’m on my period? Do tampons flush? Are sanitary napkins a better option?
    kait
    Community Answer
    Tampons do not flush, and sanitary napkins are a better option in this situation.
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