Expat Focus: What's that funny little pipe hanging in the toilet?

At first Egyptian toilets might take some getting used to. If they're clean, consider yourself blessed. Most toilets in private homes and hotels are, but more public toilets tend to be, well, rather disgusting. It's a good idea to carry disinfectant wipes wherever you go--not to wipe yourself but rather the toilet seat. Also the fact that Egyptian toilets are not as full of water as American toilets are is a strange thing. Where our toilet bowls are at least half full, Egyptian bowls are less than a 1/5 full of water. They usually provide a powerful flush though so it's all good.

However, as an expat you will encounter something strange for sure. And that is a thin copper pipe which winds itself from the water connection, under the toilet seat, dipping down into the bowl and rising up again. Caution...DO NOT TURN WATER ON BEFORE YOU SIT DOWN!!! You don't want a "toilet shower". Most of us have gotten them at least once (some are slower learners), so forewarned is forearmed. This pipe is for cleaning yourself after you use the toilet. Cleanliness is a strict Islamic custom and so washing with water is a must afterwards. Just reach around to where the handle is and turn the water on gently. And I DO mean gently, otherwise you will give yourself the unpleasant experience of an accidental enema. That skinny little baby packs a mean punch, believe me. You might have to maneuver yourself around the seat a bit, depending on whether you want to clean front or back, but in any case, it's a refreshing experience.

And one last word of caution, be sure to turn water off before you stand up. Happy toileting!