How to design a public toilet?
What should be included in a public restroom? Which solutions ensure safety and comfort of use? How to design a restroom? Which bathroom accessories are essential and which are optional? There are many aspects to consider. For some, it may seem difficult, while others may unintentionally overlook important issues, especially when designing accessible toilets. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with the key points of designing a public restroom.
Table of Contents:
1. Public Toilets in the Past and Present
2. Most Common Issues
3. Ventilation
4. Toilet Signage
5. How to Choose Bathroom Lighting?
6. Step-by-Step Bathroom Equipment Selection
7. Toilet Bowls and Urinals
8. Washroom in a Public Toilet
9. Additional Equipment
10. Toilet for People with Disabilities
11. Safety in the Toilet
12. How to Maintain Cleanliness?
13. Summary
Public Toilets in the Past and Present
Toilets have evolved over the centuries. The first mentions of public toilets date back to Ancient Rome. It was a place where men not only took care of their physiological needs but also gathered to have peaceful conversations. These places were located in the open air and significantly differed from the toilets we know today. Nowadays, everyone values their privacy, which is why a toilet must provide comfort. Key features such as doors that can be locked, light-sensitive lighting, a mirror above the sink, and warm water are standard requirements without which a modern toilet cannot exist. However, designers strive to come up with newer and better solutions to make us feel like we are in the comfort of our own homes in public toilets. Undoubtedly, these toilets will be automated in the future, with computers overseeing everything. But before that happens, toilets will still be associated with dirt and unpleasant odors for many people. In recent years, thanks to various promotional programs, the issue of public toilets has ceased to be embarrassing. It is now a topic that can be openly discussed.
Most Common Issues in Public Toilets
The common problems associated with public toilets are usually the result of improper design and insufficient cleanliness. Depending on the type of building, such as a shopping center, school, hospital, office, etc., individual toilets serve different groups of people. It is logical that certain specific requirements will differ for different sanitary facilities, depending on the intended users. Men, women, children, and people with disabilities have distinct needs, and these factors determine the equipment of the toilets. Additionally, user-friendly toilets should also consider cultural and ethnic needs.
Most of us have had the pleasure of using a public toilet. And the question arises: can this experience be considered pleasant? Insufficient lighting, flooded floors, lack of toilet paper, and unpleasant odors effectively discourage us from even thinking about these places. The key to changing this image is to design a toilet that meets six essential requirements, namely:
- Clean and dry
- Well-ventilated
- Easy to maintain
- Properly arranged
- Accessible to people with disabilities
- Well-equipped.
Below, we present the golden rules and innovative solutions that will make public toilets synonymous with "neat," "comfortable," and "hygienic."
The doorknob of the toilet door is an undisputed breeding ground for germs, especially in a public place with a high number of people passing through. The best solution to this problem is... not having an entrance door at all. This idea was initiated about 20 years ago. To ensure privacy despite this approach, a labyrinth of corridors can be included in the design.
Ventilation
Furthermore, this practice improves ventilation inside the toilet, which is crucial. Providing adequate ventilation helps prevent moisture and subsequent mold growth. The air from the toilet should be expelled outside using automatic systems consisting of extraction fans and, if possible, ventilation ducts and grilles. They should be strategically placed so that each section of the toilet is within 3 meters of the fan or grille. It would also be beneficial to place ventilation grilles near the toilet itself so that contaminated air is quickly removed before it can spread to other areas of the toilet. Air exchange should also be provided near the floor level near the sinks to prevent excessive humidity. This air leaving the building should not reach a position 2 meters above the sidewalk and 5 meters from the fresh air inlet. Fresh air is sourced directly from the outside or from an adjacent building if it is constantly air-conditioned or naturally ventilated. In the first case, a smaller amount of fresh air is introduced compared to the air expelled. This creates lower pressure in the toilet, minimizing the potential impact on the incoming air in the adjacent room.
To minimize touch operations, electronic devices equipped with light sensors can be used instead of traditional devices, such as flush valves or touchless faucets. In the near future, it should become a standard that anything that previously required physical contact will be equipped with motion sensors.
Toilet Signage: How to Find the Bathroom
When designing, it is important to be vigilant and avoid direct visibility of urinals or a wall surface with a mirror reflecting the urinal area upon entering the men's public toilets. Proper directional toilet signage is also crucial for easy navigation. Therefore, the toilet should not be located too far away. The closer it is to heavily frequented areas, the better, as this avoids additional effort for the elderly, those with health issues, and ensures the comfort of people with an urgent need to use the toilet. It is also important to ensure that directional arrows are clearly visible, so that interested individuals do not have to ask for directions. Toilet signage should contrast with the background on which it is placed (e.g., black signs on a white background), and the design should be simple and specific, making it easy for people with visual impairments or the elderly to distinguish them. Therefore, fanciness is unnecessary in this matter.
How to Choose Bathroom Lighting?
Well-designed lighting system in a bathroom can help us save electricity and improve the aesthetics of the space. Avoid using dim lighting, as it can make the bathroom appear dirty. Natural lighting is ideal for creating a warm and pleasant atmosphere. However, if windows cannot be used as a source of natural light, make sure that the chosen artificial lighting is not too harsh. Artificial light sources, both for general illumination and those installed above sinks or mirrors, should have a warm color temperature, and the lighting intensity should be at least 300 lux. Adhering to these fundamental principles will guarantee an improvement in the atmosphere of public toilets, which in turn will encourage users to take care of cleanliness, knowing that such places can be welcoming to them.
It is also worth considering illuminating the space with colors, as this can positively influence the prevailing atmosphere. The desired color effect can be achieved through lighting and finishing elements. [Link to the product image and description]
Selection of Bathroom Fixtures Step by Step
People often do not respect publicly accessible places. Therefore, materials used for equipping and finishing public toilets must be durable and resistant to acts of vandalism. There is a wide range of materials available on the market, and the most suitable ones should be chosen for each specific area. Here are examples of good solutions:
» Flooring
For the safety of users, it is necessary to minimize the risk of slipping. Therefore, use anti-slip ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles, terrazzo, or natural stone. Additionally, the chosen material should withstand the expected foot traffic and be easy to clean.
» Walls
Choose ceramic tiles, natural stone, porcelain tiles, stainless steel, aluminum or enameled steel panels, phenolic cladding, or glass blocks. Avoid using paint, as bathrooms are often exposed to moisture. Also, avoid materials that easily absorb moisture or are prone to corrosion (e.g., improperly sealed wooden finishes, non-ferrous metals). In general, the walls should be covered with materials that allow splashes to flow down rather than penetrate into the surface.
Larger-sized tiles are preferred for easier maintenance. Their dimensions should be at least 100-200 mm.
» Ceiling
Options for the ceiling include mineral wool panels, fibrous gypsum boards, aluminum panels or strips.
If there are pipelines above, suspended ceilings are a better choice as they provide easy access in case of any malfunction. However, if such access is not necessary, calcium silicate boards are more suitable as they are easier to renovate—just repaint them.
Toilet Bowls and Urinals
The ratio of fixtures in toilets should be as follows: 1 toilet bowl and 1 urinal for men, and 2 toilet bowls for women. If possible, urinals and toilet bowls should be installed parallel to each other using common plumbing lines.
Urinals should be equipped with flushing valves and automatic flushing systems. When installing, ensure the proper distances to ensure user comfort and provide a certain level of privacy. Individual urinals should be individually mounted on the wall, with a width of at least 300 mm. The edges should protrude at least 30 cm from the wall. If the toilet is equipped with two or more urinals, one of them should be child-friendly. To ensure privacy, individual urinals should be separated by a board with a height of at least 30×80 cm. To guarantee dryness, a stainless steel floor grate can be installed under the urinal to provide additional drainage.
Toilet bowls, like urinals, should be wall-hung and equipped with flushing valves and touchless flushing systems, although manual flushing systems are more common. Cabins should provide freedom of movement, so their dimensions should not be smaller than 850×1500 mm. Each cabin should be equipped with toilet paper holders and bathroom hooks for hanging outerwear and bags. Additionally, foldable shelves for personal belongings can be installed. The partition separating individual cabins should be rigid and mounted to the wall or ceiling to avoid contact with the floor, which facilitates surface cleaning. The signage should provide reliable information about the availability of the cabin. To ensure dryness, the floors should be equipped with drainage grates.
Washbasins in Public Toilets
- Space around a single washbasin: minimum 1000 mm. Washbasins in public toilets should be of considerable size, at least 500 mm in length and 400 mm in width. The following distances should be maintained:
- Space from the opposite wall for a single washbasin: minimum 1000 mm.
- In the case of two adjacent washbasins:
» Minimum 500 mm between the wall and the center of the washbasin.
» Minimum 800 mm between the centers of the two adjacent washbasins.
» Minimum 1200 mm from the opposite wall.
- Washbasins arranged at a right angle to each other.
Washbasins should be recessed into bathroom countertops, with the basin forming a cavity in the countertop. In terms of water conservation, it is essential to install electronic faucets or timed faucets. These types of faucets provide an appropriate water flow that is not excessive. Moreover, touchless faucets eliminate contact, resulting in hygienic and cost-saving benefits.
The water pressure and the position of the faucet and washbasin should not allow users to be sprayed when activating the water flow.
If the toilet is equipped with at least 2 washbasins, one of them should be child-friendly. Unfortunately, installing washbasins specifically designed for younger users is not a standard practice. Washbasins should be installed outside the toilet cabins for communal use.
Faneco Stainless Steel Washbasin for Public Toilets
Bathroom Faucets
When choosing bathroom faucets for public toilets, there are several factors to consider. Here are a few important considerations:
- Durability: Given the high traffic in public toilets, it is important to choose faucets that are sturdy and highly durable. Select models made from durable materials such as stainless steel or brass, which are resistant to corrosion and damage.
- Automatic operation: Faucets with automatic sensors are popular in public toilets due to their hygienic operation. With a sensor, the water turns on automatically upon detecting hands, helping to save water and minimize the spread of bacteria.
- Water flow adjustment: It is also important to adjust the water flow. In public toilets, faucets with flow restrictors are commonly used to conserve water and reduce operational costs. You can also choose faucets with adjustable flow to accommodate individual preferences.
- Easy maintenance: In the case of public toilets, ease of maintenance is crucial. Choose faucets that are easy to clean and do not require frequent servicing. It is good to select models with readily available replacement parts that can be easily disassembled and replaced when needed.
- Energy efficiency: If energy conservation is a priority, look for bathroom faucets with low energy consumption or ones that are battery or battery-powered. It is advisable to choose models with an automatic shut-off feature after a specified period to avoid unnecessary energy consumption.
Other Essential Elements
In addition to the aforementioned fixtures, every public toilet should be equipped with other necessary amenities:
- Trash cans - in each women's and men's cubicle and additionally in the vicinity of washbasins.
- Sanitary bins and hygiene bags - for women's toilets.
- Air fresheners.
- Toilet seat covers or toilet seat cleaning solutions - especially in women's toilets.
- Cleaning agents - in each cubicle and urinal.
- Baby changing stations - not present in every toilet but undoubtedly a significant convenience that makes the toilet parent-friendly.
Soap Dispensers
When choosing soap dispensers for public toilets, several factors should be considered. First, determine the type of soap (liquid, foam, bar) based on preferences and hygiene. Then select the appropriate type of dispenser (wall-mounted, countertop-mounted, freestanding, automatic, or manual) considering available space and user preferences. Familiarize yourself with the dispenser's capacity to avoid frequent refilling. When choosing a dispenser, pay attention to hygiene, ease of use, and maintenance. Ensure compliance with hygiene regulations and standards. Compare prices, brands, and reviews from other users. Finally, consider aesthetics and style that match the toilet's decor.
Paper Towel Dispensers
- When selecting paper towel dispensers for public toilets, it is important to consider several key factors.
- Type of paper towels: Determine whether you prefer single sheets or roll paper towels for hand drying. Choose a dispenser suitable for the chosen type of towels.
- Type of dispenser: There are several types of paper towel dispensers, such as wall-mounted, countertop-mounted, or freestanding. Choose a type that is suitable for the available space and preferences.
- Accessibility: Ensure that the paper towel dispenser provides easy access to towels for users. It should be ergonomic and allow for convenient paper extraction.
- Maintenance ease: Choose a dispenser that is easy to clean. It should be durable, easy to clean, and allow for easy replacement of used towels.
- Capacity: Pay attention to the capacity of the paper towel dispenser. Choose an appropriate capacity to avoid frequent emptying. The suitable capacity depends on the traffic and number of users in the public toilet.
- Compliance with regulations and standards: Make sure the chosen paper towel dispenser complies with applicable regulations and standards for hygiene in public places.
Toilet Paper Dispensers or Holders
When choosing toilet paper dispensers or holders for public toilets, there are several factors to consider:
First, decide whether you prefer to use individual toilet paper sheets, toilet paper rolls, or jumbo roll systems. The appropriate type of dispenser or holder depends on the chosen type of toilet paper.
Next, pay attention to the ease of access to toilet paper. The dispenser or holder should provide convenient paper extraction for users and allow for easy replacement of used paper.
Ease of maintenance is also an important factor. Choose a dispenser or holder that is easy to clean, moisture-resistant, and provides hygienic storage of toilet paper.
Capacity is another aspect to consider. It depends on the number of users in the public toilet and the frequency of paper replacement. Choose a dispenser or holder with an appropriate capacity to avoid frequent refilling.
Additionally, ensure compliance with regulations and hygiene standards for public places. Make sure the chosen dispenser or holder meets the applicable requirements.
Accessible Toilet Facilities
Accessible toilets have separate regulations. At the design or renovation stage, it is crucial to consider certain aspects. Entrance doors to accessible toilets should be wider to allow wheelchair users easy access. This requires allocating adequate space for such a toilet to allow wheelchair maneuvering. One of the basic requirements is to position the washbasin within easy reach from a seated position without the need to get up from the wheelchair. Other considerations include installing grab bars and handrails to enable disabled individuals to use the toilet independently, as well as providing tiltable mirrors.
More information about equipping toilets for people with disabilities can be found here.
Toilet Safety
When designing a public toilet, safety and user comfort should be taken into consideration. All exposed pipes should be hidden, except for the final connections to the fixtures. The visible pipes should be chrome-plated. All cables should also be neatly concealed. Sharp edges should be avoided, and mirrors should not protrude from the wall. As an additional measure, not mandatory but certainly raising the standard of a public toilet, adding elements of decor such as easy-to-maintain plants or softly lit pictures on the wall.
How to Effectively Maintain Bathroom Cleanliness?
Once we have a perfectly designed and equipped toilet, maintaining an appropriate level of cleanliness is essential. General cleaning should be carried out daily. Certain principles should be followed to avoid recontamination of previously cleaned areas before completing the entire process. First, replace all used accessories. Then remove the trash and sweep the floor. Clean and disinfect the washbasins, urinals, and finally, the toilet bowls. After completing these tasks, clean the mirrors and polish all shiny surfaces. Next, clean the walls, partitions, shelves, and openings selectively, where necessary. Finally, wet mop the floor. Afterward, check if everything has been done correctly and make any necessary corrections. These tasks should be supervised, and a cleanliness control sheet should be placed on the inside of the toilet entrance door.
Cleaning of toilets should be scheduled during hours when there is not expected to be heavy traffic to ensure the comfort of both the cleaning staff and the users. However, the more frequently a toilet is used, the higher the intensity of cleaning required. It should be done skillfully to avoid interfering with usage while maintaining the facility in good condition. It is essential to ensure that there is an adequate supply of toilet paper, paper towels, liquid or foam soap, and that hand dryers are operational. Additionally, the floor should be clean and dry to minimize the risk of slipping. It is also important to remember that different elements and surfaces have specific cleaning requirements, and specialized cleaning agents, such as toilet cleaners or floor cleaning products, are necessary. Proper scheduling is important to maintain cleanliness at the appropriate level. It is also recommended to provide proper training for the cleaning staff.
It is well known that the above practices will be futile if we do not raise awareness among the public about the responsibility of taking care of public toilets. Users need to understand that these places are meant for everyone's use, so we must contribute to maintaining cleanliness ourselves. If we do not respect public toilets and the work of others, we cannot expect to find these places in a clean condition.
Conclusion
The solutions currently used are not yet perfect enough to be beyond improvement. Some issues seem to be very simple. Paper towel dispensers should be placed not just near the washbasins but also near the waste bins to minimize littering issues. School toilets are particularly prone to unpleasant graffiti drawings, so it is worth covering walls or partition walls with a substance that facilitates the cleaning of such drawings. In addition to the previously mentioned water resource conservation issue, attention should be paid to minimizing electricity consumption by providing as much natural light as possible or using reflective surfaces to enhance natural lighting in the facility. Furthermore, toilets can be equipped with their own hot water supply. The system can be activated only when necessary and in the required amount. As it is widely known, flushing water in toilets and urinals is a significant source of germ spread. Not everyone remembers to lower the lid before flushing. To protect people from contact with bacteria, an innovative solution can be implemented in the form of delayed flushing. This allows users to move to a safe distance where bacteria will not reach.
A publicly accessible toilet may initially seem like a straightforward room. However, as can be seen, designing such a space requires careful consideration of many aspects to ensure the safety and comfort of toilet users. The market for sanitary articles is constantly introducing innovative solutions that help meet modern standards.
Marcel Apola
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