What cultures use water instead of toilet paper?

Author: Korey Hermiston  |  Last update: Thursday, March 5, 2026

People of this culture use water to wash themselves when necessary. France, Portugal, Italy and Japan. Instead of toilet paper, people from these countries usually have bidets in their bathrooms. A bidet looks like a toilet but also has a spout that sprays water like a fountain to thoroughly cleanse you.

What countries use water instead of toilet paper?

France, Portugal, Italy, Japan, Argentina, Venezuela, and Spain all use bidets, they'll often have toilet paper available in public spaces for tourists, but homes would all have bidets installed.

Are there cultures that don't use toilet paper?

Yet 70% of the world's population doesn't use toilet paper at all. Big areas of southern Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia use water instead.

Why do Muslims use water instead of toilet paper?

Muslims are required to use water to clean their bums after pooing because paper alone won't clean the area. It'll vary between individuals if they use their hands or not.

What countries do not put toilet paper in the toilet?

Parts of Southeast Asia: In countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia, the plumbing systems can be easily overwhelmed. Here, it's common to use a “bum gun” or a bidet spray instead of toilet paper. If toilet paper is used, it should be thrown in a bin, not flushed.

DO NOT THROW AWAY PAPER ROLLS, LOOK WHAT I DID WITH THEM

Do Russians use toilet paper?

The average volume per person in the Toilet Paper market is projected to be 8.3kg units in 2025. The demand for toilet paper in Russia has significantly increased due to a growing population and changing consumer habits.

Do Chinese use toilet paper?

Travelers often worry about the availability and usage of toilet paper in Chinese toilets. In many public restrooms, private homes, restaurants, and hotels, toilet paper is provided, but it is common practice to throw it into a waste basket instead of the toilet to prevent plumbing issues.

Which is more hygienic, toilet paper or water?

Washing with water is a much more effective and long-lasting way of cleaning, and removes more germs and bacteria than paper. Using water is a much more gentle and soothing way of cleaning after using the toilet and the feeling of freshness and cleanliness is incomparable to when using paper.

Can Muslims use condoms?

Praise be to Allah. It is permissible to use condoms so long as this does not cause any harm and so long as both husband and wife consent to their use, because this is similar to 'azl (coitus interruptus or “withdrawal”).

What is the etiquette for bidets?

Don't use the bidet as a toilet: It's designed for post-toilet cleaning, not for the disposal of waste. Avoid using too much toilet paper: It can lead to plumbing issues, especially in areas with sensitive systems. Watch the water pressure: Start low to avoid splashing or discomfort.

Is it rude to flush the toilet at night?

Unless you are on a train and stopped at a station, Miss Manners can think of no reason why flushing should be suspended. The shock of any late-night noise will surely be far less offensive than that of waking up to refuse that has been lingering overnight.

What culture uses their hands to wipe?

In Europe and in places like India, they would use their left hand and a bit of water. They still use this method in many countries today!

Do French use toilet paper?

Developed countries like the US, UK, Germany, France, and Australia commonly employ toilet paper. In these countries, toilet paper is readily available in stores and is considered a necessity in households. The usage of toilet paper in these countries is so common that it is considered a part of their daily routine.

What cultures don't flush toilet paper?

You typically shouldn't flush toilet paper in Turkey, Greece, China, Montenegro, Egypt, and rural areas throughout South America.

Are bidets sanitary?

Bidets can arguably be considered more sanitary than traditional bottom-cleaning methods. Quite simply, a bidet can provide a better hygiene experience compared to toilet paper. It starts with the basic fact that water can top a few squares of dry TP in removing trace amounts of fecal matter after you poop.

What does Japan use instead of toilet paper?

The washlet can replace toilet paper completely, but many users opt to use both wash and paper in combination—although use of paper may be omitted for cleaning of the vulva. Some wipe before washing, some wash before wiping, some wash only, and some wipe only—each according to their preference.

Can Muslims use tampons?

Are Tampons Haram in Islam? There are no explicit rulings on Islam about prohibiting the use of tampons, which implies it's halal to use them. It's a general rule of thumb in Islam that unless there's evidence that something is haram, then it's okay to use, and tampons fall under that category.

Is abortion allowed in Islam?

In conclusion, abortion is a generally forbidden act according to Islamic teachings. It is permissible under certain circumstances if carried out before ensoulment at 4 months of gestation and after that to save the life of mother. Traditionally, the well‐being of the mother was the sole consideration for abortion.

Is it halal to kiss private parts in Islam?

So, it is preferable that one avoids it although there is no evidence prohibiting it. But if the impurity gets mixed with saliva and one swallows it, then this becomes unlawful. Allah knows best.

Is it better to wipe or wash after pooping?

After a bowel movement, always wipe from front to back. This prevents the spread of bacteria that can cause UTIs and soil hands, increasing the risk of transmission of infections like hepatitis A and H. pylori. If the skin at your anus is irritated, try using wet wipes.

What is the healthiest toilet paper to use?

What is the best non irritating toilet paper? For those with sensitive skin, bamboo toilet paper is the top pick. It's hypoallergenic, free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes, reducing the risk of irritation or allergic reactions.

Is it better to wipe standing or sitting?

Ultimately, this is a personal preference – with benefits to each method. For sitters, the main pro is cheeks stay spread, preventing any cheek-on-cheek smearing. That means easy cleaning access.

Does China still have squat toilets?

However, there are still lots and lots of "squatty potties" in China, and as likely as not, you'll have to use one at some point. But don't fear! Using a squat toilet is simple. There are a few tricks to the trade, but with a little preparation, you'll be able to do your business with confidence.

Is China a clean country?

According to the Chinese Ministry of Health, industrial pollution has made cancer China's leading cause of death. Every year, ambient air pollution alone kills hundreds of thousands of citizens. 500 million people in China are without safe and clean drinking water.

Can you flush toilet paper in a China hotel?

No Flush Rule for Toilet Paper: Bin It, Don't Flush It

Why, you ask? Well, let's just say the plumbing isn't always up to the task. Instead, look for a designated bin and dispose of your used TP there. It's not glamorous, but it gets the job done!

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