The real reason why public toilet seats have gaps in them — and it’s not as gross as you might think
Public toilet seats have gaps for practical reasons rather than hygiene concerns. Since 1955, U-shaped seats have been mandated by the American Standard National Plumbing Code to reduce contact and bacterial transfer. The design also aids in cleanliness for users, particularly women and those who may not aim accurately.
- ▪The gaps in public toilet seats are legally required and have been since 1955.
- ▪The open-front design minimizes contact with surfaces that may harbor bacteria.
- ▪It allows for easier cleaning and reduces the pooling of urine on the seat.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Lifestyle The real reason why public toilet seats have gaps in them — and it’s not as gross as you might think By Fabiana Buontempo Published May 24, 2026, 2:55 p.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results. Add The New York Post on Google This is news for those who skeeve public toilet seats. There are many unspoken, strange things in a public restroom — the gaps in toilet seats are one of them. And while you might think it’s a manufacturing error, there’s actually a very real, legal reason why public toilet seats look the way they do compared to your porcelain throne at home.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at New York Post.
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