Content

• To step
• Part 1 of 2: The right attitude
• Part 2 of 2: Using the squat toilet
• Tips

Using a squat toilet is a new experience for most Westerners. People who do not live in areas where these types of toilets are commonly used are not used to the unfamiliar shape, style and method of use. Before you start using a squat toilet, it is useful to know how to use it so that you do not get into trouble.

To step

Part 1 of 2: The right attitude

1. Decide what to do with your pants. Before you can squat and use the toilet, you need to think about what to do with your clothes. Just like in a Western toilet, before you can go ahead, make sure your clothes don't get in the way. Squat toilets can be tricky for a novice user who keeps their pants on.
   • If you are using a squat toilet for the first time, it is a good idea to take off your pants and underpants completely.
   • If you're used to squatting, try keeping your pants on and just lowering to your ankles.
2. Stand above the toilet. Once you have the best way to arrange your pants, you need to adopt the correct posture over the toilet. Stand over the toilet with one foot on each side. By standing above the toilet like this, you will be squatting in the right place.
   • Look in the right direction, towards the hood of the squat toilet if there is one.
   • Get as close to the hood as possible.
   • Do not squat directly over the hole, as water may splash when using the toilet.
3. Squat down. Once you have maneuvered yourself into position, you can squat down. Bend your knees and slowly sink into a deep squat. Your knees are pointing straight up and your buttocks (if all goes well) right above the toilet.
   • Squat as deep as possible, with your buttocks roughly ankle height, close to the toilet.
   • If it is difficult for you to squat, you can seek support by holding your knees.

Part 2 of 2: Using the squat toilet

1. Do your business. When you are squatting, you can relax and relieve yourself. While this is not much different on a squat toilet than on a Western toilet, it has been shown that relieving yourself while squatting can be easier on your body. Just relax and do whatever you need to do.
2. Clean up. Once you're done on the squat toilet, it's time to tidy up. In many places where squat toilets are used, no toilet paper is used, but a sprinkler or a bucket of water and your hand. Shop around to find out what's available.
   • Most tubs of water also have a ladle. Use the spoon to wet the area and use your hand to wipe.
   • Using a sprayer is the same as with the water bowl and spoon. Spray water and wipe the area with your other hand.
   • You can bring your own toilet paper. But keep in mind that many toilets clog when you flush toilet paper through them.
3. Tidy up the used paper. If you have used toilet paper after using a squat toilet, you need to tidy it up. Not all drainage systems are capable of flushing toilet paper and serious damage to such a system can occur as a result. Always tidy up your toilet paper after using a squat toilet.
   • If there is a trash can near the squat toilet, it is likely intended for used toilet paper.
4. Flush the squat toilet. Some squat toilets have a handle and flush like a western toilet. But there are also many without and you still have to flush and clean up after using the toilet. Always leave the squat toilet tidy for the next user.
   • Use the available bucket of water and make sure everything flushes into the toilet.
   • Sometimes there is a foot pedal to flush the squat toilet.
   • If there is a brush, you can use it to wipe any footprints off the edges of the toilet.

Tips

• When traveling, bring toilet paper. Not all public toilets have paper and sometimes you have to pay for it. Wet wipes (such as for babies) are also very useful, as you may only need one of them. Make sure you have folded the cloth or paper properly before throwing it in the waste bin.
• Find the bin before you go to the bathroom. You can't flush toilet paper all over the place and sometimes it's better to throw it in the bin.
• While squatting, hold your knees for extra support.
• Try to squat by the hood of the squat toilet to make sure you are in the correct position.
• Before use, pour some water over the surface of the toilet to make cleaning up easier.
• If you are traveling with children, take your time, remove clothes and underwear and bring toilet paper! Find out more [1]