Arabic toilets, broadly speaking, refer to toilet designs and practices common in many Muslim-majority countries. A key feature is the emphasis on cleanliness, particularly after using the toilet, which often involves using water. There are two main types: squat toilets and, increasingly, Western-style seated toilets with integrated or adjacent washing facilities.
Types of Toilets
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Squat Toilets: These are common in many parts of the world, including Muslim countries, and consist of a hole in the ground or a basin at floor level. Users squat over the toilet.
- Advantages: Some studies suggest squatting is a more natural and hygienic position for bowel movements. They are often more economical to install and maintain.
- Operation: After use, water is typically used for cleansing.
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Seated Toilets (Western-Style): These are becoming increasingly prevalent, often incorporating features for washing.
- Bidets: A separate plumbing fixture that sprays water for cleaning the anal and genital areas.
- Bidet Seats: Toilet seats with built-in bidet functionality, including adjustable water pressure and temperature.
- Handheld Nozzles (Shattaf/Bidet Shower): A nozzle attached to a hose that allows the user to manually direct a stream of water for cleansing. This is a very common method.
Cleansing with Water
Regardless of the toilet type, the consistent practice is using water for cleaning after using the toilet, a practice rooted in Islamic tradition and hygiene.
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Methods:
- Handheld Nozzle (Shattaf): The most common method involves using a handheld nozzle (shattaf) to spray water.
- Pitcher or Jug: In some cases, a pitcher or jug is filled with water and used for cleansing.
- Bidet: The bidet or bidet seat offers a hands-free water cleansing option.
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Procedure: After using the toilet, the user uses water to thoroughly cleanse themselves. This is typically followed by drying with toilet paper or a towel.
Etiquette and Hygiene
- Left Hand: Traditionally, the left hand is used for cleaning after using the toilet, while the right hand is reserved for eating and other clean tasks.
- Cleanliness: Maintaining personal hygiene after using the toilet is paramount in Islamic culture.
- Privacy: Toilet facilities are usually designed to ensure privacy.
Summary
Arabic toilets encompass both squat and seated designs, but the defining feature is the use of water for cleansing after using the toilet. The shattaf (handheld nozzle) is a particularly common and important element in this practice.
