How Do You Use a Toilet in Iran? A Traveler’s Guide

Well, you’re thinking about visiting Iran or maybe you're already planning your trip. And there's something that might be on your mind, especially if you're not familiar with Iranian culture: How do you use a toilet in Iran? Trust me, it’s one of those small yet crucial things that can make or break your travel experience. And while you may think it's just about using a bathroom, there are actually some things you might want to know to avoid awkward moments.

Let’s be real, I’ve been there – I once landed in Iran, excited to explore, only to face a very different toilet situation than what I was used to. So, let me break it down for you, so you won’t be caught off guard.

1. Western Toilets Are Common, But Not Always

First things first, you will find both Western-style and squat toilets in Iran. In major cities like Tehran, Isfahan, or Shiraz, it’s quite common to find Western-style toilets in hotels, restaurants, and even some public places. But, don’t get too comfortable—squat toilets are still pretty widespread, especially in more rural areas or older public buildings.

If you're like me, someone who didn’t grow up with squat toilets, the first encounter can be... well, a little intimidating. Honestly, I wasn't prepared for it at all, and there was that moment when I wasn’t quite sure how to go about it. But, after a bit of trial and error (and awkward glances at other travelers), I learned the ropes.

2. Using a Squat Toilet

Alright, so here’s where things get interesting. Squat toilets in Iran are essentially a hole in the ground with footrests on either side. And no, there’s no seat – it's just you, your feet, and a bit of balance. So, how do you use it? Here’s a step-by-step guide based on my experience:

1. Position yourself: You face the toilet hole, straddle the footrests, and squat down. Sounds simple enough, right? But trust me, it takes a bit of practice.

2. No touching, please!: Iranian squat toilets are generally very clean, but there’s no seat to sit on. Avoid touching the edges of the toilet – that's a tip I learned the hard way. You'll often see a small piece of tissue or a little plastic bag to hold, just in case you need to steady yourself.

3. Use your left hand: It’s customary in Iran to use your left hand for certain tasks, including wiping (more on that in a moment). Don’t ask me why – it's just cultural, and you’ll see it everywhere. So be prepared for that.

4. Flush (or not): Many squat toilets in Iran don’t have automatic flush systems. Instead, there’s usually a small bucket of water and a scoop or a hose (called a shattaf) nearby. You use this to pour water into the toilet to flush it. Yes, this might feel a bit odd at first, but once you get used to it, it becomes second nature.

3. Paper or Water?

Okay, so here’s a big difference that threw me off. Toilet paper in Iran isn’t always a given. I had a few moments where I walked into public toilets and, to my surprise, there was no toilet paper. So, make sure you always carry a small pack of tissues just in case.

Now, in some places, especially in more traditional settings, you might find a water hose or bidet-like feature right next to the squat toilet. This is the preferred method of cleaning for many Iranians, as they rely on water rather than paper. If you haven’t used a shattaf before, don't worry—it's like a handheld bidet. You’ll get used to it, and honestly, it’s pretty hygienic once you get the hang of it.

4. Bathroom Etiquette

Alright, so beyond the technical stuff, there’s a bit of cultural etiquette that might not be obvious to newcomers. First, don’t flush toilet paper in some Iranian public bathrooms. It's a weird adjustment, but in many places, they have strict plumbing rules. Instead, you place used paper in a small bin next to the toilet. Yes, it might seem strange, but hey, it's just how they do it.

Another thing to remember: leave the bathroom as clean as you found it. It’s considered a sign of respect to leave no mess behind, and you’ll see signs encouraging this. Honestly, it’s a good habit to adopt anywhere you go, but especially in places like Iran, where water scarcity is a concern.

5. What If You’re in a Remote Area?

Here’s the thing—in smaller towns or more rural places, the toilet experience might be a bit more “rustic.” In some areas, you may even have to pay for toilet use, so be ready with some small change. Also, facilities can vary greatly in terms of cleanliness and amenities, so pack wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and tissue, just to be safe.

I remember one time in Yazd, when I was visiting a historic site, I came across a public bathroom that didn’t have a door on the stall and had a very basic squat toilet. It was a bit of a shock, but I just rolled with it, and now it’s a funny story to tell.

6. Finally, Stay Calm and Be Flexible

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my travels in Iran (and beyond), it’s that you have to stay calm and flexible when it comes to using toilets abroad. Some things may feel awkward, others may feel gross, but it’s all part of the experience. The key is to keep a positive attitude and adapt to the local norms.

Honestly, I know it sounds silly, but once I got over my initial discomfort with squat toilets, I started appreciating the practicality of them. They’re more hygienic, and honestly, they save space—something I noticed while visiting smaller bathrooms.

In Conclusion

So, how do you use a toilet in Iran? It’s a mix of old-school and modern, depending on where you are. You’ll likely encounter both Western and squat toilets, but no matter what, keep tissues on hand, be prepared for the shattaf, and remember the importance of leaving the bathroom as clean as you found it.

Trust me, it’s not as bad as it sounds. Once you understand the basics, you’ll be navigating Iran’s bathrooms like a pro. So go ahead, enjoy your trip to Iran without stressing over the bathroom situation. You’ve got this!

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