What do Arabs use in the toilet?

How Arabs Maintain Hygiene After Using the Toilet

Across much of the Arab world, personal cleanliness after using the toilet goes beyond the use of paper. Rooted in Islamic tradition, thorough cleansing with water is considered essential. In Islam, maintaining purity after using the restroom is not just about comfort—it's a religious practice. The act of washing with water, particularly after excretion, is tied to the concept of ritual cleanliness, a cornerstone of daily Muslim life.

Because of this, you’ll rarely find a toilet in a typical Arab household—or even in public restrooms—without access to water for washing. Instead of relying solely on toilet paper, most bathrooms are equipped with a shattaf, a small handheld bidet shower often mounted on the wall near the toilet. This simple but effective tool allows users to rinse thoroughly with a stream of water, ensuring better hygiene.

While toilet paper is sometimes used alongside the shattaf, it’s usually not the primary method. In fact, many locals consider wiping alone insufficient. The combination of water and modest use of paper reflects a cultural norm that prioritizes cleanliness in both body and spirit. Visitors from Western countries might find the setup unfamiliar at first, but most adapt quickly once they understand the logic and comfort behind it.

So, rather than asking what Arabs use in the toilet, perhaps a better question is: why isn’t this method more widespread? The answer lies in a centuries-old tradition that values true cleanliness—one that continues to shape daily habits across the region today.