Unlike many countries, there are almost no free public toilets here.
Are you already accustomed to bicycles, a sedentary lifestyle, and Dutch taxes? Great. But there is something that might truly surprise you – the local toilets. Paid entry, outdoor bins, a strange “shelf” in the toilet – the Dutch clearly approach this issue with their own philosophy.
Why Are Toilets in the Netherlands Special?
The main feature is the size. Dutch bathrooms can be so tiny that you will have to plan a turning strategy in advance. Other distinctive features:
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A mini-window or broken ventilation – fresh air is almost non-existent here.
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A birthday calendar – yes, it hangs right in the toilet, because… why not?
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An air freshener – no comments.
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The famous shelf in the toilet – more on that later.
Moreover, in the Netherlands, they love experimenting with buttons. You might encounter a chain, a panel on the wall, a lever on the tank – the options are endless. The main thing is not to panic.
Why Are There Almost No Public Toilets?
The Netherlands is a country of order and logic, but something went wrong with toilets. Unlike many countries, there are almost no free public toilets here. And those that exist are mostly paid.
How Much Does It Cost?
The average entry price is €0.50–1. In the old days, a toilet attendant – a lady with a dish for coins – sat at the entrance. Now she has been replaced by machines.
Tip: Download HogeNood – an app that will show you the nearest toilet and even indicate whether it’s clean or not.
Public Urinals: Yes, But Only for Men
In the city center, you can see street urinals – structures that appear during festivals and holidays. Men can relieve themselves without entering an establishment, but women are not so lucky.
Dutch activists have tried to fight for equality, and as a result, the P-Mate was created – a special cardboard “trainer” that allows women to use open urinals too. The question of whether they will want to do this remains open.
And now for the main point: what is that strange shelf in the toilet?
If you encounter a Dutch toilet for the first time, you might be shocked by the so-called “inspection shelf.” It prevents the contents from falling directly into the water, allowing you to… how should I put it… analyze the situation.
Why is it needed?
Firstly, it’s a hygienic tradition: in the past, this was a way to check health (yes, seriously).
Secondly, it saves water – this design requires less flushing.
Thirdly, no splashes – this is indeed quite convenient.
But there are downsides:
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Odors – let’s not delve into details.
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It doesn’t flush on the first try – you often have to use a toilet brush.
Conclusion: Should You Be Afraid of Dutch Toilets?
You can get used to anything. The main thing is not to try to figure out the peculiarities at the most critical moment. And yes, if you happen to notice someone’s birthday in the toilet calendar – don’t write your name!
