OK, let’s talk about something we ladies deal with all the time: the women’s bathroom. You know, that place that’s supposed to be a sanctuary but sometimes feels like anything but.

So, the other day, I popped into the restroom at this little cafe I like. First thing I noticed? It’s one of those single-stall deals, which is always a bit of a gamble, right? You never know what you’re gonna get.
Anyway, I got in there, and it wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t great either. The trash can was overflowing which makes me think of all the germs, someone clearly didn’t get the memo about flushing. I just hate that feeling. I did my business as quickly as possible, and as I was washing my hands, I noticed there was no soap left in the dispenser. Great.
I always carry hand sanitizer for these exact situations, so I whipped that out and headed for the door. That’s when I saw it – a little sign someone had stuck on the mirror.
It said something like, “Be a friend, leave it clean,” which, you know, is a nice thought. But it got me thinking about all the unspoken rules of the women’s bathroom. I decided to write them all down so I can remember them next time I go.
The Unspoken Rules
- First, if you hear something, or smell something, you just pretend you didn’t.
- When you make eye contact with someone, just give a little smile. Nothing major, just a quick acknowledgment that we’re all in this together.
- And unless you know the person, keep your lips sealed. We’re not there to chat, you know? If you see someone’s feet under the stall, don’t try to start a conversation.
- If the door’s closed, knock gently. If you are in a stall, don’t try to peek or talk to the person next to you.
- Don’t stand on the toilet seat. That’s just nasty. And for goodness sake, flush when you’re done! And don’t leave your used sanitary products all over the place. That’s just common courtesy, people!
- When you’re waiting for a stall, and it’s obvious someone else was there first, let them go ahead of you. Basic manners, right?
- And if you happen to be in a public restroom where there’s a bit of a line, don’t try to strike up a conversation with a stranger. A simple nod or “hello” is plenty.
Honestly, these rules should be obvious, but sometimes they’re not.

So, I’m just putting it out there, hoping that maybe, just maybe, it’ll make the women’s bathroom experience a little more pleasant for all of us.
And hey, if you’ve got any other bathroom etiquette tips to share, drop them in the comments. Let’s make the world a better place, one restroom at a time.