A toilet is a toilet, right? Actually, no. While we in North America may think all toilets are created equally, we would be wrong as around the world they have devised different ways for us to go.
Toilets are designed based on the needs of the people and some people reap the benefits that come from squatting, not sitting. The one thing all toilets have in common, however, is that they will have two holes, one for input and one for output. Other than that is seems anything goes when they are creating toilets.
Basically, toilets can be broken into two groups–the basic water closet, water flush variety where you sit and then flush and the squatting pan which is created for people to squat over. Because people can’t always make up their minds, however, there is actually a toilet that is called the WC health that combines the benefits of both these types into one neat package. Sit if you want, squat if you want, it’s all in one.
We have come a long way from the garderobes which were literally a plank of wood with holes cut out and a chute to take the waste down to the ground and chamber pots which had to be emptied daily (and you think your job is bad), or simply squatting wherever you were–which made for free fertilizer but still. We also have it in our minds that throwing waste outside into the street is not something that is hygienic!
Now we have two piece flush toilets with an attached tank, one piece flush toilets that have an all in one concept and the squatting pans of various sizes and shapes for those who wish to squat. Squatting pans are used in many places around the world and are credited with being the classic way to go. They are said to be more comfortable, healthier and cheaper than regular sit on toilets. Maybe the rest of the world is onto something here?
No matter your preference, toilets of today have benefited from modernization and technology over the years. We now have toilets that offer heated seats, self flush options and the smart toilet that does everything but actually go for you. What will they think of next? Will squatting pans make a splash on this side of the ocean? Will traditional toilets make it big over there? Only time will tell.