washrooms

Washrooms are rooms equipped with sanitary facilities for the sanitation and hygienic needs of people. The term is commonly used in Canada and parts of the United States and other Commonwealth countries. In different regions the same space may be called a restroom, bathroom, toilet, or lavatory.

Public washrooms generally include toilets or urinals, sinks with taps, mirrors, and waste disposal. They may have stalls with doors, partitions, and lighting; ventilation to manage odors and humidity; and hand-drying options such as towels or automatic dryers. Accessibility features like grab bars, lower sinks, and enough space are required in many jurisdictions.

Design varies by purpose; school and workplace washrooms have multiple fixtures and private stalls; gendered arrangements remain common but many facilities now provide unisex or gender-neutral options, family rooms, or wheelchair-accessible units. Privacy is typically provided by stalls with doors that extend to a certain height; common areas include sinks and hand-drying zones separated from toilet areas.

Maintenance includes regular cleaning and disinfection, restocking supplies, and prompt repair of leaks or malfunctions. Public washrooms require waste disposal systems, including bins for sanitary products, and, in some contexts, lids on toilets.

Environmental and safety considerations are prominent in modern washrooms. They often use low-flow toilets, sensor-activated taps and flush devices, energy-efficient lighting, and durable surfaces. Adequate ventilation reduces moisture and odors, while slip-resistant floors and clear wayfinding enhance safety.