Why Do Public Toilet Doors Have Gaps? The Answers Might Shock You!
Why Do Public Toilet Doors Have Gaps? The Answers Might Shock You!
We’ve all encountered public toilets, used them, and sometimes even stared at them for a while. However, many of us might not understand why the doors of public toilets often don’t reach the floor.
In many offices, schools, colleges, and other public facilities, toilet doors have a gap at the bottom, allowing people outside to see the occupant’s feet.
This design feature, commonly found in western toilets, is something we often overlook. But is there a reason behind it?
One might wonder why it’s necessary for someone’s feet to be visible during a private moment.
Interestingly, there are several valid reasons why having visibility inside toilet stalls is important.
The first reason relates to emergencies. If a door extended all the way to the ground, other people in the restroom and in nearby stalls wouldn’t be able to tell if someone inside has lost consciousness. The gap allows for visibility, enabling others to notice if someone is in trouble.
Tik Toker MattypStories (@mattypstories) discussed an important point regarding emergencies in a video explaining why there are gaps at the bottom of public toilet stalls.
He stated, “First off, if there’s ever an emergency, it’d be pretty easy to see what happened and get the person some help.” The second reason he mentioned relates to hygiene, as these gaps allow cleaners to maintain public restrooms more efficiently.
“Secondly, it makes it way easier to clean. Public bathrooms are used quite often, meaning that they need to be cleaned many times throughout the day, and having the space under the door makes it a lot easier,” MattypStories noted.
Additionally, having a gap at the bottom helps security and cleaning staff monitor inappropriate behavior in public restrooms, such as drug use, violence, and sexual activity.
Doors with gaps are also more cost-effective and standardized, which means manufacturers and suppliers do not have to create custom sizes.
Lastly, these gaps allow unpleasant odors to dissipate more quickly.
