Will You Watch an Ad for Toilet Paper? Meet the Dystopian Restroom!

Paying to use public bathrooms has been around for some time, but recent developments in China have raised eyebrows. Some facilities now require users to watch advertisements to access toilet paper, igniting debates about privacy, hygiene, and the absurdity of the situation.

Last updated: 30 October 2023 (BST)

Understanding the New Approach to Public Toilets in China

In an unusual twist on the concept of public restroom usage, certain public bathrooms in China have begun implementing a system where users must watch a short advertisement before being granted access to toilet paper. This practice has sparked significant discussion, with many labelling it as 'dystopian'.

Key Takeaways

• Some public toilets in China require users to watch ads to access toilet paper.
• Users can pay 0.5 RMB (approximately 5p) to bypass the advertisement.
• The move aims to reduce waste, as there have been reports of excessive toilet paper usage.
• Concerns have been raised regarding hygiene and accessibility if users lack a phone or battery.
• This is not the first instance of toilet paper restrictions in Chinese public restrooms.

The Mechanics of the System

According to reports, the process involves a user scanning a QR code on the toilet roll dispenser, which then displays a short advertisement. Following this, a limited amount of toilet paper is dispensed. If users prefer not to watch the ad, they can opt to pay a nominal fee of 0.5 RMB to receive paper without the advertisement.

Rationale Behind the Payments

Authorities in China assert that these measures aim to curb wasteful behaviours observed in public restrooms. Previous instances have shown that some individuals were taking large quantities of toilet paper, leading to shortages. By charging or requiring advertisements, officials hope to discourage such practices.

Public Reaction and Criticism

The response from the public has been mixed, with many expressing frustration at the idea of being forced to watch advertisements for something as essential as toilet paper. Critics argue that this system could lead to a variety of issues, particularly in terms of hygiene and user convenience.

Hygiene Concerns

One major concern revolves around the potential hygiene issues that could arise from this system. If a user finds themselves in need of toilet paper but their phone is dead or they do not have any change, they may be left in a difficult situation. This raises questions about the accessibility of basic sanitation facilities, especially in emergencies.

Carrying Personal Supplies

In light of these developments, many individuals have begun to consider carrying their own tissues or toilet paper when out in public. This change in behaviour is a direct response to the unpredictability and potential inconvenience of using public restrooms in China.

A Historical Context

This isn’t the first time that China has introduced restrictions on toilet paper use. In 2017, public toilets at the Temple of Heaven park in Beijing implemented a system that utilised facial recognition technology to limit the amount of toilet paper dispensed to individuals. This system would only allow users to receive a strip of toilet paper measuring approximately 60cm every nine minutes, leading to similar criticisms regarding dignity and accessibility.

Emergency Protocols

In a somewhat ironic twist, park officials later clarified that in urgent situations, such as someone experiencing diarrhoea, staff members would provide individuals with additional toilet paper directly. This approach raised eyebrows, as the notion of needing to ask for toilet paper could be uncomfortable for many.

What Happens Next?

The current situation regarding public toilets in China raises numerous questions about the future of public sanitation facilities. As the government seeks to control resources and reduce waste, it remains to be seen how public opinion will shape these policies moving forward. Will the trend of monetising public necessities continue, or will there be a pushback from citizens demanding more accessible and humane solutions?

International Comparisons

While charging for toilet access is not new globally, the method employed in China stands out for its reliance on technology and advertising. In various other countries, such as Italy and Japan, public restrooms may charge a small fee for usage, but the methods remain straightforward, often involving a simple payment at a turnstile or attendant. The integration of advertisement watching, however, presents a unique and, for many, an unwelcome development in public restroom dynamics.

Conclusion

The introduction of a system requiring users to watch advertisements to access toilet paper in public bathrooms represents a significant shift in how basic amenities are provided. As public sentiment sways either for or against these practices, it will be crucial to monitor how authorities respond and whether changes are made to enhance user experiences in public sanitation facilities.

As we navigate these new measures, there lies an essential question: How far are we willing to go to access basic necessities in a public setting? #PublicToilets #Sanitation #China

FAQs

Why are public toilets in China charging for toilet paper?

Public toilets in China are charging for toilet paper to reduce waste, as authorities reported excessive usage by individuals taking more than necessary.

What happens if my phone is dead and I need toilet paper?

If your phone is dead, you may have difficulty accessing toilet paper from these dispensers, which could lead to an uncomfortable situation.

How much does it cost to skip the advert for toilet paper?

Users can pay 0.5 RMB (around 5p) to skip the advertisement and directly access toilet paper from the dispenser.

Has China implemented similar policies before?

Yes, in 2017, public toilets in Beijing employed facial recognition technology to limit toilet paper access, allowing users only a limited amount every nine minutes.

What are the hygiene concerns associated with this system?

Hygiene concerns include the risk of users not having access to toilet paper in emergencies and potential issues with cleanliness if many people are using the same dispenser.