Do bathrooms in China have toilet paper?

Toilet Amenities in China: A Guide for Visitors

When traveling abroad, it’s essential to be aware of local customs and practices, including those related to hygiene. In China, bathroom etiquette differs from that in many Western countries, particularly in terms of toilet paper and soap availability.

Toilet Paper

Unlike public restrooms in Western nations, Chinese restrooms often do not provide individual rolls of toilet paper. Instead, communal supplies are typically located at the entrance to the restroom. This practice necessitates planning ahead, as it is not advisable to enter a restroom without sufficient toilet paper.

Soap

Similarly, soap is often not provided in Chinese restrooms. Visitors are advised to bring their own hand soap, or use hand sanitizer after using public restrooms.

Disposal of Paper

It’s important to dispose of toilet paper responsibly in China. Unlike in some countries where waste is flushed down the toilet, Chinese restrooms typically have designated wastebaskets for disposing of toilet paper. Flushing paper down the toilet can clog the plumbing system, which is often not designed to handle large amounts of paper waste.

Personal Hygiene

To ensure personal hygiene, it is strongly recommended that visitors bring their own hand sanitizer when using public restrooms in China. This is especially important in light of the communal nature of soap and toilet paper supplies.

In addition to the above, here are some additional tips for using public restrooms in China:

• Carry a small bag or pouch to hold toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
• Be prepared to use squat toilets, which are more common in China than Western-style toilets.
• Respect local customs and avoid littering or leaving a mess in the restroom.
• Be mindful of noise levels, as public restrooms can be busy and noisy.

By following these simple tips, visitors to China can ensure a comfortable and hygienic bathroom experience.