Everything You Need to Know About Toilets in Vietnam for a No-Surprises Bathroom Break
By Pham Hoang Anh
There was this one time when a friend from abroad visited, and their entire experience with Vietnamese toilets turned into, let’s say, an extended comedy show.
Watching them grapple with the concept of a ‘bum gun’ for the first time was a scene to behold. And let’s not even start on their encounter with a traditional squat toilet—priceless!
But here’s the thing: toilets in Vietnam cater to every chapter in our history and lifestyle. From the high-tech bidets that’ll have you questioning your life choices to the humble simplicity of a countryside latrine that connects you back to nature—it’s all here.
So, whether you’re a fellow local chuckling at your own experiences or someone new trying to navigate the intricacies of Vietnam’s toilets, let’s navigate this world together. I promise it’s an insight into Vietnamese culture that’s as enlightening as it is essential.
What types of toilets are found in Vietnam?
Western-style Toilets
The Western-style toilets are similar to those in Western countries, featuring a seat, flush mechanism, and often toilet paper. They are typically found in urban hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls, offering a familiar experience for travelers.
As Vietnam grew and attracted more tourists, these Western-style toilets became more popular. They’re much easier for everyone to use compared to the traditional squat toilets, offering more comfort and convenience.
In some upscale places, you might even find fancy toilets with bidets and other cool features, similar to what you’d see in Japan or South Korea.
How to Use Western-style Toilets in Vietnam
Using Western-style toilets in Vietnam is pretty easy and often a real comfort for many travelers. These toilets look just like the ones you’re used to back home, with a familiar seat and flush handle.
Quite a few of them come with a bidet or hose for cleaning, which can be really handy. Just remember to bring your own toilet paper, since it’s not always available.
When you step inside, you’ll usually find a clean and modern setup, especially if you’re in a hotel or a fancy restaurant. You can flush the toilet with either a handle or a button, usually on the tank or sometimes on the wall nearby.
Squat Toilets
Squat toilets are quite different from what many travelers are used to. They’re set into the ground, so you actually squat over them instead of sitting.
These have been a part of Vietnamese bathrooms for a very long time and are still common in public places and older buildings.
The design is pretty straightforward: there’s a ceramic or porcelain basin at ground level with footpads to show you where to stand. Usually, there’s a water bucket or hose nearby for flushing and cleaning, so don’t be surprised if you can’t find toilet paper.
Using a squat toilet might be new for you, but a lot of people actually find them more hygienic since there’s no seat to touch. It’s part of the adventure and offers a glimpse into everyday Vietnamese life.
How to Use Squat Toilets in Vietnam
All you need to do is squat over the ceramic basin on the ground, and you’re good to go. It might be different from what you’re used to, but it actually works quite well.
Before you start, look around for a bucket of water and a dipper for flushing. Sometimes there’s also a hose.
Just don’t count on finding toilet paper, so it’s a good idea to bring your own. Hand sanitizer is handy after you wash your hands at the nearby sink.
Luxury Korean Toilets
Luxury Korean toilets are far from the basic ones you might be used to. These state-of-the-art beauties come with all sorts of bells and whistles—heated seats, bidet functions, air dryers, and sometimes even lids that open automatically.
They made their way into Vietnam as the cities modernized and more international tourists started visiting. Using these toilets is like stepping into a mini spa. They’ve got features that focus on comfort and hygiene.
Some even have built-in deodorizers and music systems, so your bathroom break can actually be a pleasant part of your day. With a handy control panel, you can tweak the settings just the way you like.
How to Use Luxury Korean Toilets Toilets in Vietnam
When you sit down, you’ll see a control panel with a bunch of buttons. Don’t worry if it seems a bit much at first; it’s actually quite easy to use. Some toilets even come with air-drying features and systems to keep things smelling fresh.
And get this—some of them play music or have gentle lighting, which adds a nice touch of luxury.
With features like automatic lids and self-cleaning parts, using these toilets is like getting a little bit of pampering. You definitely don’t want to miss out on this experience!
Who uses public toilets in Vietnam?
Public toilets in Vietnam are used by a diverse mix of locals and tourists. In busy cities and popular tourist areas, you’ll find everyone from street vendors and taxi drivers to international visitors looking for these facilities.
Where can you find public toilets in Vietnam?
You can find public toilets in Vietnam’s cities and resorts, especially in shopping malls, tourist spots, restaurants, cafes, and large parks.
Are public toilets in Vietnam accessible to everyone?
Public toilets in Vietnam are not fully accessible to everyone, especially for disabled travelers.
While there has been progress in increasing the number of public toilets, many still lack proper facilities for wheelchair users and individuals with other disabilities.
The country is not yet fully prepared for accessible travel and emphasizes the need for careful planning to navigate the challenges.
Alternate Restroom Choices
Hotel Restrooms
Hotel restrooms are usually well-maintained and come with all the standard amenities, like toilet paper, soap, and sometimes even complimentary toiletries like shampoo and conditioner.
Getting to use these restrooms means you can freshen up comfortably anytime you need. The cleanliness is top-notch, with staff regularly ensuring everything is spotless.
Plus, you’ll often find Western-style toilets, which can be a pleasant relief if you’re more accustomed to them.
Café and Restaurant Restrooms
Most cafés and restaurants have restrooms available for customers. Generally speaking, these restrooms are clean and well-maintained, allowing you to freshen up comfortably between sips of your iced coffee or bites of pho.
In busier cities, you can expect a decent level of cleanliness and essential amenities like soap and toilet paper. Smaller, local spots might be more basic but still serviceable. It’s always a good idea to have some tissues handy, just in case.
Gas Station Restrooms
When you’re on a road trip across Vietnam, gas station restrooms can be real lifesavers.
These rest stops are pretty widespread, especially along major highways. You can expect the restrooms to be functional, relatively clean, and equipped with the basics like toilet paper and soap, although bringing your own tissues can come in handy.
The level of cleanliness can vary, with busier stations tending to have more maintained facilities. Some gas stations offer Western-style toilets, while others might have squat toilets, so be prepared for either.
Shopping Mall Restrooms
Restrooms in shopping malls are typically a mix of Western-style toilets and bidets. They are often modern, spacious, and clean, making your bathroom break a pleasant part of your shopping experience.
Most malls take hygiene seriously, so you’ll find well-maintained restrooms with plenty of amenities like toilet paper, soap, and even hand dryers.
Fast Food Chain Restrooms
Fast food chains like McDonald’s, KFC, and Burger King usually have clean restrooms up to international standards. You can generally expect Western-style toilets, ample soap, and toilet paper—all the essentials for a comfortable stop.
These restrooms are fairly consistent in terms of cleanliness and upkeep, thanks to regular maintenance schedules. Some of the busier locations might see a bit more wear and tear, but the staff typically work hard to keep things in good shape.
Circle K and Convenience Store Restrooms
Circle K and similar convenience store restrooms are a convenient option when you need a quick, no-fuss stop. These restrooms are basic, with Western-style toilets, soap, and sometimes toilet paper.
While not every convenience store has a restroom, the ones in busier areas or larger stores usually do. If you can’t find it yourself, it’s a good idea to ask the staff—they’re typically helpful and friendly.
Restroom Tips in Vietnam You Should Be Aware Of
Carry your own toilet paper
Not all public restrooms have toilet paper, and sometimes you have to pay for it. To avoid any surprises, it’s a good idea to always have a small pack of tissues or toilet paper with you. This is really useful, especially in rural areas or small shops.
Use the bin for toilet paper
The plumbing in Vietnam isn’t always able to handle flushed toilet paper, especially in older buildings. You’ll see a small bin next to the toilet for used paper and other items. Always throw your used paper in the bin to prevent blockages.
Bring bathroom supplies
In places like tourist areas and fancy spots, public restrooms are usually clean and stocked with everything you need—soap, toilet paper, and towels.
But in less crowded or rural areas, you might find them less clean and less stocked. Having your own hand sanitizer, tissues, and maybe some wet wipes can be a lifesaver.
Pay a small fee for public toilets
It’s pretty common to pay a small fee to use public restrooms in markets, bus stations, and tourist attractions—usually between 2,000 and 10,000 VND.
Keep some small changes with you to make things easier. This small fee helps keep the restrooms clean and stocked.
Use bidet sprayers (bum guns)
Many restrooms have bidet sprayers that you can use instead of toilet paper. They’re more hygienic and better for the environment.
To use one, just aim and gently squeeze the trigger. You might want to dry off with a towel or some tissues afterward.
Understand different flushing mechanisms
Toilets might have different ways to flush—push buttons on top, pull levers, or foot pedals.
Take a quick look before you use it so you know what to do. If you’re not sure, just check it out first.
Be ready for different soap options
Hand soap isn’t always provided. When it is, you might find bar soap, liquid soap, or even none at all.
It’s a good idea to carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer or a travel-sized soap just in case.