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American toilets -

What makes an American toilet distinctly American? Let’s flush out why American toilets might lead to unexpected surprises for European visitors, and vice versa.

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Porcelain throne -

American toilets are usually bigger than European ones. This makes them more comfortable, and that comes as a big plus to people who like to take their time on the toilet.

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Flush method -

The US and the United Kingdom use the siphonic toilet, which relates to its drainage system. American toilets feature a long, narrow P- or S-shaped pipe called a trapway. When you flush, it creates a siphon that pulls waste into the drainage system.

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Water usage -

American toilets typically have a higher water level than European ones. To flush effectively, they need at least 1.6 gallons (6 liters) of water. Older models used even more, ranging from five to seven gallons (19-26.5 liters) per flush.

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Odor repellent -

Another reason for the additional water use in US toilets is that waste is practically always covered, insulating unpleasant smells and ensuring that the toilet self-cleans better during every flush.

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Cons -

While comfortable and practical, American toilets have some drawbacks.

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Clogging issues -

Siphonic toilets can clog more easily due to their smaller trapway. Even a small amount of extra toilet paper can cause them to overflow.

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Beware of splashback -

The high water level in American toilets can sometimes lead to splashback. To prevent this, many people add a piece of toilet paper to the water before use. However, adding too much can cause clogs, as mentioned earlier.

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Bacterial spread -

American toilets' high water usage can create a larger plume of microscopic fecal matter particles, spreading them around the bathroom.

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European toilets -

Now, let's explore the unique features of European toilets and what surprises they might hold for American visitors.

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Wash it down -

European toilets use a washdown system. When flushed, the water's weight and force, helped by gravity, push waste into the trapway.

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Free way - Washdown toilets tend to clog less due to their larger-diameter pipes. The shorter, broader trapway in European toilets is more efficient at moving waste.

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Smart control -

Most European toilets have dual-flush systems, allowing for a smaller or larger water release depending on the waste type.

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Water savings -

Since European washdown toilets don't rely on a vacuum, they use less water. This dual-flush system can reduce water consumption by 30%, saving up to 4,000 gallons (15.14 liters) per year.

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Less bacterial spread -

The lower water usage and water level in European toilets result in a smaller toilet plume, reducing the spread of fecal matter. This can also help minimize splashback.

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The cons -

However, it’s not all roses in Europeans bathrooms, especially if you’re used to the American system.

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Cleaning challenges - Less water in the bowl can lead to less effective self-cleaning, resulting in stains. However, dual-flush toilets allow for water level adjustment.

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What's that smell? -

The lower water level in washdown toilets can sometimes lead to unpleasant odors, as the waste is more exposed to air compared to siphonic toilets.

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Less comfy -

While European toilets are smaller, optimizing space, they may offer less comfort during use.

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Philosophical matter -

Beyond design and flushing systems, some theories suggest that toilet differences reflect deeper cultural and ideological nuances.

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Potty politics -

Slovenian philosopher Slavoj Žižek argues that ideology can be found in unexpected places, including toilets. His intriguing take on the differences between Anglo-Saxonic (US and UK), French, and German toilets, links them to cultural and societal norms.

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American and British -

Žižek suggests that the high water level in American and British toilets reflects a pragmatic approach to problem-solving: simply "let it flow."

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The German way -

German toilets traditionally feature a front-facing drainage hole and a flat surface in the bowl. This design allows for the examination of one's own waste, to help identify potential health issues. Žižek draws a parallel between this practice and the more conservative, reflective nature of Germans, who view facing their own waste as a logical and responsible act.

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French revolution -

In France, the drainage hole is typically positioned towards the back of the bowl, meaning residue disappears quickly. Žižek likens this to the guillotine, symbolizing the French penchant for swift and decisive action.

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Other differences -

US and European public and private bathrooms also differ in terms of privacy and built-in amenities.

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Bidet debate -

A bidet is a mini-shower used for personal hygiene. It offers a hygienic and cost-effective alternative to toilet paper, but has historically been more common in European bathrooms.

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Wash or wipe? -

Historically, bidets were a symbol of luxury and hygiene, reserved for the aristocracy. However, their association with brothels during World War II led to negative perceptions in the US, hindering their widespread adoption.

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Public toilets -

Public toilets also differ in their design. American stalls typically have open bottoms, while European stalls are fully enclosed.

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Mind the gap -

According to specialists, the open-bottom design of US stalls is more practical and cost-effective, especially in bathrooms with uneven surfaces or odd dimensions. It also allows for better surveillance, potentially deterring illegal activity and facilitating emergency access.

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Under surveillance -

The lack of privacy in US stalls may be intentional. The open design can encourage quicker use, potentially benefiting employers who aim to increase workplace productivity.

Sources: (Slate) (Hunker) (Open Culture ) (Fern-tv) (Bathroom Nerd)

See also: Surprising things that are dirtier than your toilet

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