Hygiene practices vary significantly across cultures, often shaped by factors like climate, societal norms, and access to resources. A study across 56 nations found that hygiene norms are influenced by cultural values of self-control and perceived disease threat.1
What Americans consider standard hygiene is not always the norm elsewhere. Here are 14 hygiene customs from around the world that challenge American perceptions of cleanliness.
1. Infrequent Showering
Daily showers are not the norm in many parts of Europe and Asia. Some people view them as excessive and wasteful, preferring to shower every few days or as needed.
A study found that on average, Americans shower nearly 7 times per week, while the Chinese average fewer than 6 showers. (ref) Europeans also argue that less frequent washing allows the skin’s natural oils to protect and moisturize, while Americans tend to associate daily showers with good hygiene.
2. Reusing Clothes
Americans are accustomed to wearing clothes only once or twice before washing them. However, in many European countries, it’s common to wear outfits multiple times before laundering, unless visibly soiled or smelly.
This practice is seen as a way to conserve water and energy, and prolong the life of garments. While Americans might view this as unhygienic, proponents argue that it’s more sustainable and practical.
3. Embracing Natural Body Odor
In the U.S., using deodorant or antiperspirant daily is the norm for managing body odor. However, in some European cultures, it’s more acceptable to embrace one’s natural scent rather than mask it with products.
The idea is that a person’s unique odor is part of their essence and shouldn’t be altered. Americans, who are used to a society that values odorlessness, might find this approach unsanitary or off-putting.
4. Removing Shoes Indoors
In many Asian and Middle Eastern cultures, removing shoes before entering a home is a strict hygiene practice.
The idea is to prevent outside dirt and germs from contaminating the living space. Guests are often provided slippers or go barefoot inside.
Some Americans, accustomed to wearing shoes indoors, may view walking around in socks or bare feet as unsanitary. However, cultures that practice shoe removal view it as a way to maintain a clean and healthy home environment.
5. Using Bidets
Bidets, common in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, are used to wash after using the toilet. Many Americans view them as unnecessary or even unsanitary, preferring toilet paper.
However, bidet users argue that washing with water is more hygienic and environmentally friendly than wiping with paper. In Japan, over 80% of households have a high-tech toilet seat with a built-in bidet, while they remain rare in American homes. (ref)
6. Communal Bathing
In countries like Japan, Korea, and Turkey, public bathhouses are a cultural tradition. Bathing is seen as a social activity to be enjoyed with others. These bathhouses have separate areas for men and women and maintain strict hygiene standards.
However, many Americans might feel uncomfortable with the idea of sharing bathwater with strangers, viewing it as unsanitary despite the cleaning protocols in place.
7. Brushing Teeth after Meals
In some countries, like India, it’s common to brush one’s teeth after each meal, even in public restrooms.
While Americans typically brush twice a day, the idea of carrying a toothbrush and doing it in public might seem excessive or strange. However, cultures that practice this view it as a way to maintain optimal oral hygiene throughout the day.
8. Avoiding Nose-Blowing in Public
In Japan, blowing your nose in public, especially loudly, is considered rude and unhygienic. People are expected to excuse themselves to a private area to deal with a runny nose.
In contrast, Americans generally view nose-blowing as a necessary bodily function that can be done discreetly in public. These differing cultural norms highlight the varying perceptions of what is considered polite and sanitary.
9. Eating with Hands
In parts of Africa, the Middle East, and India, eating with one’s hands is the traditional way to enjoy a meal. There are often specific rituals around handwashing before eating to ensure cleanliness.
While Americans might initially view this as unsanitary, these cultures see it as a natural and intimate way to connect with their food. Eating with hands is deeply rooted in the cultural heritage and social customs of these regions.
10. Street Food Culture
Street food is a way of life in many countries, from Asia to Latin America. Vendors sell a variety of freshly cooked dishes from carts or stalls.
While some Americans might question the hygiene standards of these outdoor kitchens, locals view street food as a delicious and integral part of their culinary culture. The popularity of these vendors relies on their reputation for quality and cleanliness among regular customers.
11. Reusing Bathwater
In some parts of the world where water is scarce, it’s not uncommon for families to reuse bathwater for multiple purposes. The same water might be used for bathing, then collected to wash clothes or clean the home.
Americans, accustomed to abundant water supply, may view this as an unsanitary practice. However, in areas with limited resources, water conservation is a necessity and reusing bathwater is a practical solution.
12. Sharing Towels
In some European countries, it’s common to find shared towels in public restrooms or gym locker rooms. The idea is that the towels are frequently laundered and replaced.
Americans, used to the concept of personal towels, might view this as a breeding ground for germs. However, proponents argue that as long as the towels are properly sanitized between uses, it’s a more sustainable approach than single-use paper towels.
13. Squat Toilets
Squat toilets are prevalent in many Asian countries and are viewed as a more natural and hygienic way to relieve oneself. They require the user to squat rather than sit, minimizing contact with potentially unsanitary surfaces.
Some Americans may find the idea of using a squat toilet uncomfortable or even unsanitary due to the lack of a seat. However, many cultures view them as a cleaner and healthier alternative to Western-style sitting toilets.
14. Outdoor Bathing
In some rural or developing areas, bathing in rivers, lakes, or communal water sources is a daily ritual. The idea of washing outdoors, often in view of others, might seem primitive or unsanitary to Americans accustomed to private indoor bathrooms.
However, for many communities, these practices are a normal part of life and are done in clean, flowing water. The act of bathing in nature is also seen as a way to connect with the environment.
These diverse hygiene habits from around the world reveal that cleanliness is a culturally subjective concept. What Americans might view as unsanitary or shocking, other cultures embrace as normal or even beneficial.
These practices are deeply rooted in tradition, practicality, and societal norms. By understanding and respecting these differences, we can broaden our perspective on hygiene and challenge our assumptions about what it means to be clean.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
