Nobody plans their trip around toilets. But needing one when you’re traveling and not knowing what you’re walking into is a quick way to turn an otherwise great day into a minor crisis. Toilets are one of those everyday things that are just different enough from what you’re used to that it helps to get a heads-up before you land in Malaysia.
So, here’s a full breakdown of how Malaysian toilets work. This post will make sure you don’t walk into a squat toilet, see a hose hanging on the wall, and panic.
Two main types: seated and squat toilets
Malaysia has both Western-style seated toilets and Asian squat toilets, and they often coexist in the same row of stalls. Malls, airports, hotels, and most modern cafes will have seated toilets. But don’t be surprised if you walk into a roadside rest stop or local hawker centre and only find a squat toilet instead.
Squat toilets are exactly what they sound like — a ceramic hole in the ground, with foot pads and a flushing system (manual or automatic, but often a bucket). They’re still widely used, especially among older generations and in rural areas.
Some people genuinely prefer them, saying they’re better for digestion and more hygienic (your bottom doesn’t touch the same surface that a hundred other bottoms already have). That said, if you’ve never used one before, it might take a moment to figure out where to put your feet and how not to splash your shoes. Practice makes perfect — or at least, less awkward.
If you’re uncomfortable squatting or have mobility issues, try to stick to malls and larger restaurants where seated toilets are almost always available. There’s no shame in choosing what works for you.
How to use a squat toilet like a pro (or at least less like a noob)
If you’ve never used a squat toilet before, it can feel like you’ve just been handed a pop quiz with no study notes. I’m not a big fan of them either (both squat toilets and pop quizzes), but don’t worry — they’re not as scary as they look.
Here’s the basic play-by-play:
- Remove your clothes — Just kidding! But honestly, if there’s no water hose and just a bucket of water to wash with, I’d rather just take off my pants to avoid splashes. If stripping down sounds a little too dramatic, just make sure you roll up your pant legs, because the floor is usually wet. Also, take your phone and wallet out of your pockets before you squat. The last thing you want is to go fishing in the toilet!
Position yourself correctly — Face the door or wall (not the opening), place your feet on the footpads, and squat all the way down. Your heels should be flat on the ground if possible. If it feels unstable at first, widen your stance a bit and lean on your knees. I know squatting takes a bit of flexibility and leg strength, so if it’s tough for you, try a half squat or just find a position that feels stable and works for your body.
- Do your business — No explanation needed here.
- Clean up — Use the water hose (or a small bucket and scoop if it’s a traditional setup) to clean yourself. Left hand for cleaning, right hand stays dry — that’s the local custom. You will need some practice to perfect the art though. Bring your own tissues to dry off.
- Flush — Some squat toilets have a handle flush like seated ones. Others use a water bucket — you fill the bucket with water from a nearby tap and pour it into the toilet to flush.
Since using squat toilets requires more work than seated ones especially if you’re a beginner, don’t wait until it’s urgent to go — it’s much easier when you’re not in a rush!
The famous water hose (a.k.a. the bum gun)
This little gadget confuses a lot of first-time visitors. The water hose — affectionately (or nervously) called the bum gun — is a staple in Malaysian toilets. It’s a flexible nozzle attached to the wall beside the toilet and is used to clean yourself with water after doing your business.
In theory, it’s simple: aim, spray, clean. In practice, you’ll probably need a few tries to figure out the right pressure and angle. It’s a lot less weird once you get used to it, and after a while, you’ll wonder how you even lived without it. It’s cleaner, uses less paper, and just makes sense.
Most Malaysians don’t use toilet paper alone — many use the hose first, then pat dry with tissue.
Cultural note: in traditional hygiene practices, people use their left hand for cleaning and reserve their right hand for eating and handshakes. You’re not expected to follow this rule rigidly, but it’s good to be aware of why some locals might be hesitant to accept something with your left hand.
Don't count on toilet paper
Let’s make this one loud and clear: carry your own tissue. Always. Toilet paper is not guaranteed in Malaysian public toilets. Even in nicer places, the dispenser may be empty or located outside the stall, so you’ll need to grab what you need before going in — assuming it’s even available.
Locals are used to this and usually have a packet of tissues or a roll of toilet paper in their bag, car, or pocket. You’ll find small tissue packs sold everywhere — pharmacies, supermarkets, convenience stores, even roadside stalls — so it’s easy to stock up.
A small packet of tissues and a travel-size hand sanitizer will cover 90% of toilet situations you encounter here. Don’t wait until you’re already in the stall and realize you’re unprepared.
Bring small change
Some public toilets in Malaysia are not free, especially at bus terminals, train stations, night markets, and roadside stops. The fee usually ranges from RM0.30 to RM0.50, and occasionally a staff member will hand you a small piece of toilet paper with your entry. Sometimes there’s a turnstile, other times there’s a little dish with coins and a sleepy attendant nearby.
Keep a few RM1 notes or small coins in your pocket for this. You don’t want to be the person holding up the line because you only have a RM50 note and no one can make change.
Cleanliness is a mixed bag
Toilets in Malaysia are like a box of chocolates. They range from spotless to… let’s say, functional. Malls and airports usually have clean, well-maintained facilities with proper ventilation and hand soap. Some are even air-conditioned and feature modern Japanese-style smart toilets.
On the other end of the spectrum, toilets at gas stations, bus stops, and rural rest areas might be wet, dimly lit, and have broken locks. Some toilet seats might even have shoe prints on them because people really do prefer squatting.
This isn’t to scare you — most toilets are perfectly usable — but it’s best to adjust your expectations depending on where you are.
A lot of public toilets here are wet because of the hose or people using water instead of paper. Wet floor ≠ dirty floor, but bring wipes or tissue if you want to dry the seat or your shoes before leaving. And, of course, don’t forget to sanitize.
Don't flush your toilet paper (sometimes)
In many public toilets — especially squat toilets — you’ll see signs asking you not to flush toilet paper down the bowl. That’s because the plumbing in older buildings isn’t built to handle it. Instead, you’re expected to throw used tissue into the bin provided in the stall.
It might feel a bit strange at first, especially if you’re used to flushing everything away. But once you realize it’s about avoiding clogs and keeping things functional, it makes sense.
Accessible toilets are improving
Accessible toilets are available in most large malls, airports, and newer public facilities. They’re usually located near family restrooms or marked clearly with signage. That said, not all public spaces are fully accessible, especially in older or rural buildings. If accessibility is important to you or someone you’re travelling with, it’s worth checking ahead or sticking to newer venues when possible.
A few practical tips, in a nutshell
Here’s your go-to list for surviving any Malaysian toilet situation:
- Always carry tissues — keep a few packs in your bag, just in case.
- Bring hand sanitiser — soap isn’t always provided.
- Have small change — especially for transport hubs or market areas.
- Watch out for wet floors — wear waterproof shoes or ones that are easy to rinse.
- Learn the hose technique — awkward at first, but useful later.
- Avoid throwing paper in the bowl unless you’re sure it’s allowed.
And maybe avoid jumpsuits. They’re always a bad idea in tricky bathroom situations.
Final thoughts
Toilets aren’t the most exciting part of travelling — but knowing how they work can make a real difference, especially when you’re navigating a totally new environment. Malaysia’s toilet scene is a mix of modern and traditional, clean and not-so-clean, familiar and foreign — sometimes all in the same day.
Don’t stress too much. Come prepared, be adaptable, and try not to judge every stall by your first squat toilet experience. You’ll soon get the hang of it, and then it’ll just be another part of the adventure.
Have you used a Malaysian toilet before? Got a funny story, survival tip, or a question you’re too embarrassed to ask out loud? Drop it in the comments.
