If you have ever visited a public restroom in the United States, you may have noticed that the bathroom stalls are not very private. They usually have large gaps between the door and the frame, the wall and the frame, and the floor and the bottom of the door. You can easily see or be seen by others in the restroom, making you feel uncomfortable or exposed.
But why are American bathroom stalls so open? What is the reason behind this design choice? And how does it compare to other countries’ bathroom stalls? This article will explore these questions and give you some answers and insights. Let’s get started!
What Are the Reasons for American Bathroom Stalls Being So Open?
There is no definitive answer to why American bathroom stalls are so open, but there are some possible explanations that experts and observers have suggested. Here are some of them:
- Cost: Cost is one of the most common reasons American bathroom stalls are so open. Building bathroom stalls that are fully enclosed and sealed can be more expensive than building ones that have gaps and spaces. The gaps and spaces can reduce the material, labor, and time needed to construct the stalls. They can also reduce maintenance and cleaning costs, allowing more air circulation and preventing mold and mildew growth.
- Security: Another possible reason American bathroom stalls are so open is security. Having gaps and spaces in the bathroom stalls can allow security guards, staff, or other users to monitor the activity inside the stalls and prevent any illegal or inappropriate behavior. For example, some schools, airports, or malls may have open bathroom stalls to deter drug use, vandalism, theft, or violence. They may also have open bathroom stalls to prevent people from locking themselves in or hiding from authorities.
- Accessibility: A third possible reason for American bathroom stalls being so open is accessibility. Having gaps and spaces in the bathroom stalls can make them more accessible and convenient for people with disabilities, children, parents, or caregivers. For example, some people with disabilities may need assistance from a companion or a service animal when using the restroom. Opening bathroom stalls can make it easier for them to communicate and receive help. Similarly, some children, parents, or caregivers may need to accompany each other when using the restroom. Opening bathroom stalls can make it easier for them to stay together and avoid separation.
How Do American Bathroom Stalls Compare to Other Countries’ Bathroom Stalls?
American bathroom stalls are not the only ones with gaps and spaces in their design. Some other countries also have similar or even more open bathroom stalls than the United States. Here are some examples:
- China: Some public restrooms do not have doors or walls for their bathroom stalls in China. Instead, they have rows of squat toilets that are separated by low partitions or nothing at all. These toilets are often in busy train stations, markets, or parks. They are designed to be efficient and practical, as they can accommodate more users in less space and time. They are also considered more hygienic and ergonomic than sitting toilets, as they reduce the contact between the user and the toilet seat.
- Japan: Some public restrooms have transparent glass doors for their bathroom stalls in Japan. These doors are made of smart glass that can change from clear to opaque when the user locks the door. These doors are intended to be modern and innovative, as they can save energy and space by using natural light and eliminating the need for curtains or blinds. They are also meant to be safe and secure, as they can prevent users from being trapped or locked in by malfunctioning doors.
- France: In France, some public restrooms have self-cleaning toilet cabins on sidewalks or streets. These cabins are fully automated and enclosed units that can wash and disinfect themselves after each use. These cabins are designed to be convenient and sanitary, as they can provide users with a clean and private space to use the toilet. They are also designed to be eco-friendly, as they can recycle water and reduce waste.
Conclusion
American bathroom stalls are open for various reasons, such as cost, security, accessibility, or design preference. They are not the only ones with open bathroom stalls, as some countries have similar or even more open bathroom stalls than the United States.
We hope this article has given you some information and insights on why American bathroom stalls are so open.
