12 Peculiar Features Of American Bathrooms

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12 Peculiar Features Of American Bathrooms

When you visit America from another country, you might notice some bathroom habits that seem quite unusual. From the way Americans decorate their bathrooms to their choices in fixtures, there are a few peculiar trends that might stand out. Let’s explore some of these surprising bathroom habits that often puzzle visitors from overseas.

1. Carpeted Bathrooms

One unusual habit is the installation of carpets in bathrooms. Many visitors find this choice peculiar because carpets can absorb moisture and might seem unhygienic. The soft feel of a carpet might be comfortable underfoot, but it can be challenging to keep clean and dry, especially in a room that is often damp.

2. Double Sinks

In many American master bathrooms, you’ll find two sinks instead of one. This is particularly handy for couples who need to use the bathroom at the same time in the morning. While it may seem excessive to some, having two sinks can make getting ready faster and reduce congestion in the bathroom.

3. Shower Curtains Instead of Doors

Rather than having glass doors, many American bathrooms feature shower curtains. This choice can make bathrooms appear less modern to visitors from countries where glass doors are standard. Shower curtains are often less expensive and easier to replace, which might explain their popularity.

4. Large Gaps in Stall Door

Toilet stalls in America often have noticeable gaps around the doors, which can be uncomfortable for people used to more privacy. This design can make some individuals feel exposed, especially when they are seeking more seclusion in a public or shared bathroom.

5. The Use of Bath Mats

Fabric bath mats are commonly used in American bathrooms. These mats frequently get wet and need to be washed regularly, which can seem inconvenient to some. However, they are popular for providing a dry, warm spot to stand on after showering.

6. Over-the-Top Themed Decor

It’s not uncommon to see American bathrooms heavily themed, sometimes with elaborate decorations that might include everything from nautical themes to floral arrangements. This penchant for strong themes can appear overly extravagant to visitors who prefer more minimalist or functional bathroom decor.

7. Using a Lot of Toilet Paper

Visitors often notice that Americans tend to use a considerable amount of toilet paper. In contrast, in many other countries, people might use bidets or other methods to clean themselves. This heavy reliance on toilet paper can seem wasteful to those not accustomed to it.

8. Large Quantities of Bath Products

In American showers, it’s typical to see a large collection of bath products like shampoos, conditioners, and body washes. This abundance might seem unnecessary to visitors who are used to more streamlined options.

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9. Potpourri and Scented Candles

Many Americans use potpourri and scented candles in their bathrooms to cover up odors. These fragrant items are intended to enhance the bathroom’s atmosphere and provide a pleasant olfactory experience.

10. The Absence of Bidets

Unlike many parts of Europe and Asia, bidets are rarely found in American homes. This absence is often surprising to foreigners who are accustomed to the hygiene benefits that bidets offer.

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11. Very Soft Toilet Seats

Cushioned or padded toilet seats are quite common in American bathrooms. These soft seats may provide comfort but can appear overly indulgent or unnecessary to people from countries where such features are uncommon.

12. Separate Hot and Cold Faucets

Older American bathrooms sometimes feature separate faucets for hot and cold water. This can be frustrating as it makes it difficult to mix the water to a comfortable temperature, a problem that many modern designs have solved with single mixer taps.

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