Bodenlose

Bodenlose is a term often encountered in German-speaking countries, particularly in the context of plumbing and sanitation. It refers to a type of toilet bowl that lacks a visible water seal or cistern within the bowl itself. Instead, waste is directly deposited onto a sloped surface, from which it is flushed away by a strong jet of water. This design is distinct from conventional toilets that have a water-filled trapway to contain odors.

The primary characteristic of a bodenlose toilet is its open, often simpler, internal structure. The absence of a water-filled bowl means that odors can be more easily noticeable if the flushing mechanism is not efficient or if the toilet is not regularly used. However, this design can also be perceived as more hygienic by some, as there are fewer surfaces for waste to adhere to.

Bodenlose toilets are not as common in residential settings as standard toilets due to the potential for odor issues and the reliance on powerful flushing systems. They might be found in public facilities or industrial applications where ease of cleaning and robust flushing are prioritized. The term itself, "bodenlose," literally translates to "bottomless," which accurately describes the visual absence of a water reservoir in the bowl. Maintenance and installation of these types of toilets require specific knowledge of their unique operational principles.