The Mystery of the Missing Toilet Seat in Italy

PART 144: It might be interesting to share how we pulled off living in Italy for part of the year. I will post some steps and what we are learning along the way.

We love every minute of it, and what was once a dream is our life!

We live in Tuscany in the Fall, then back again in the Spring, and in California for the rest of the time (in a previous blog, I explained why we live in Italy only part of the year).

Step 1: As we explore areas in Italy, we discover some gems worth sharing. Some are well-known tourist magnets, and others are lesser-known but always amazing. 

This week, let's explore why toilet seats are missing in some public restrooms in Italy.

Step 2: Predicament

Have you ever found yourself in this situation? You're traveling or away from your lodging in Italy, and you really need to find a bathroom. You rush in, check for toilet paper (what a relief!), and then turn to sit down—only to discover there's no toilet seat.

How do you react? (No swearing please)

Step 3: Experience

Today, I walked into the bathroom at our gym in Tuscany and noticed, once again, the absence of toilet seats. I decided to ask the manager about it. Additionally, I spoke with some locals regarding the shortage of toilet seats and, at times, toilet paper. Here's what I discovered.

Step 4: Why?

The first reason for the lack of toilet seats is breakage. Our gym manager explained this issue:

"It's not a matter of cultural differences; it's about usage. I've replaced the toilet seat six times, and each time it was broken. People come in, and because they don't want to touch the seat, they squat on it—or even stand on it! Naturally, this causes the seat to break, so I just stopped replacing them."

The second reason for the absence of toilet seats, as locals have informed me, is that there isn't a "one size fits all" toilet seat in Italy. While the U.S. has a few sizes of toilet seats, Italy features many different types of toilets and seats. Consequently, finding a replacement for an older toilet seat can be quite challenging.

Our gym manager also mentioned the toilet paper dilemma: "Every time I put toilet paper in the bathroom, someone steals it. When I put hand sanitizer there, it disappears too. I have no idea why, so I stopped providing it."

Additionally, a local shared that it's difficult to find staff to clean public restrooms. The dirtier the restroom becomes, the less likely people are to want to sit on a dirty seat, which leads them to stand or squat.

By the way, I can't imagine how anyone aside from an acrobat could stand on top of a toilet seat and use it.

Step 5: Dealing with it. Plan.

Instead of complaining about the mystery of the missing toilet seat in Italy, it's more practical to create a plan.

Here's what I do:

1. Carry disinfectant wipes.

2. Bring your own toilet paper or wipes.

3. Have something to cover the toilet rim before sitting down.

First, wipe the rim with disinfectant. Then, place toilet paper or another covering over the rim. After that, sit, relax, and enjoy.

Remember to bring your own toilet paper or wipes for cleaning up.

Finally, wash your hands.

Now, face the world with confidence!

Insights:

With a little planning, the mystery of the missing toilet seat doesn't have to ruin an outing. Instead, it can become one more memory that brings a smile. If one is prepared.

More next time.

Please see related blog on the mystery of the Italian washing machine. Link is here.

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