Traveling the world opens up a treasure trove of cultural experiences, but it also exposes travelers to hygiene practices that can leave them scratching their heads.
What’s considered normal in one country might raise eyebrows or even stomachs in another. From skipping daily showers to communal bathing rituals, these foreign habits can seem bizarre to American sensibilities.
As Americans pride themselves on their cleanliness routines, they often find themselves confronted by customs that challenge their notions of hygiene.
For instance, reusing bathwater or eating with hands may strike many as unsanitary, yet these practices are deeply rooted in cultural traditions.
This article delves into 14 hygiene habits from around the globe that might gross out most Americans, highlighting the fascinating diversity of human behavior and the varying definitions of cleanliness.
1: Squatting Over Sitting
Squatting toilets are standard in many Asian countries and offer a unique approach to personal hygiene. Users lower themselves into a squatting position to relieve themselves, which is believed to be more natural and beneficial for the body.
This method minimizes physical contact with potentially germy surfaces. Americans may find the absence of a seated toilet unsanitary, yet proponents argue that squatting toilets can help promote healthier bowel movements and reduce the likelihood of certain medical issues.
2: Water Over Paper
In many countries, particularly across Asia and the Middle East, people use water instead of toilet paper for cleansing after using the bathroom. This is typically done with a bidet, handheld spray, or a water jug.
Advocates argue that water offers a more thorough and hygienic clean than paper. For Americans, this can feel unusual or even unclean, as toilet paper is the standard in the U.S.
However, many who switch to water-based cleansing methods report feeling fresher and more sanitary.
3: Bucket Baths
In parts of Africa, Asia, and Latin America, bucket baths are a water-saving alternative to showers. Individuals fill a bucket with water and use a smaller container to pour water over themselves.
Soap and scrubbing are done between rinses. While this may seem primitive or unsanitary to some Americans, it’s a resourceful method, especially in areas with limited access to running water or where conservation is crucial.
4: Using Catch-All Cleaning Products
Many foreign cultures embrace the efficiency of catch-all cleaning products, which can be used on multiple surfaces.
These products often include all-purpose cleaners or multi-surface wipes that she can use in kitchens, bathrooms, and even on furniture.
They simplify cleaning routines by reducing the number of specialized products, making it easy for individuals to maintain hygiene with fewer items.
While Americans may prefer dedicated cleaners for specific tasks, those who use catch-all products appreciate the convenience and quick cleaning solutions they offer.
5: Nighttime Bathing
Nighttime bathing is a routine in many cultures, often seen as essential for relaxation and cleanliness. Individuals first fill a tub with warm water, then add bath oils or salts for enhanced comfort.
After soaking for a while, they cleanse their body using soaps or body washes. Once rinsed off, people typically dry themselves thoroughly before slipping into fresh pajamas.
This practice contrasts sharply with American habits, where evening showers are less common, and many opt to bathe in the morning instead.
6: Finger Foods
Eating with one’s hands is a common practice in various cultures, particularly in Africa and Asia. Participants typically wash their hands before meals, ensuring cleanliness while enjoying dishes like injera or biryani.
Americans might cringe at the thought, perceiving it as unhygienic, yet these cultures have rituals that emphasize tactile interaction with food.
Finger foods are celebrated for their comfort and sociability, showcasing the cultural significance of communal dining experiences that differ vastly from American norms.
7: Masking
Masking, especially in Asian countries, involves using face masks for everyday activities. They wear masks in public, particularly during flu season or when pollution levels rise.
This practice helps reduce the spread of germs and provides protection against airborne particles. Americans might find it odd to see people wearing masks while walking or shopping, as it’s less common in the U.S.
They prefer to reserve masks for healthcare settings, highlighting a significant cultural difference in hygiene and preventive measures.
8: Kiss To Greet
In many European and Latin American cultures, it’s customary to greet friends or acquaintances with a kiss on the cheek or even both cheeks.
While meant as a warm and polite gesture, this form of greeting can feel invasive or unhygienic to Americans who are more accustomed to handshakes or verbal greetings.
Especially in a post-pandemic world, such close physical contact may be seen as a potential health risk, though in these cultures, it remains an important ritual of social connection.
9: Perfume as Hand Sanitizer
In some cultures, especially in parts of the Middle East, people may spritz perfume or fragrant sprays on their hands instead of using alcohol-based sanitizers. The belief is that the pleasant smell signifies cleanliness.
While it may mask odors, it doesn’t kill bacteria the way a true sanitizer does—something that may alarm more germ-conscious Americans. Still, for many, scent is a central part of personal grooming and social etiquette.
10: Remove Your Shoes
In many Asian and Nordic cultures, it’s customary to remove shoes before entering a home. This practice is seen as respectful and helps maintain cleanliness inside.
Guests may be offered slippers to wear indoors. Americans, however, often wear their shoes inside, sometimes tracking dirt through the house.
The shoe-removal rule may seem overly fussy to them, though it reflects a deep-seated value placed on cleanliness and comfort in many other parts of the world.
11: No Soap Hand Washing
In some rural or traditional settings, people wash their hands with water alone, without soap. This may be due to limited access or different perceptions of cleanliness.
While hands are rinsed, the absence of soap might concern Americans, especially given widespread campaigns about hand hygiene.
Yet, in these communities, frequent washing with water before meals and after using the toilet is still a critical part of daily hygiene.
12: No Deodorant
In many cultures, skipping deodorant is quite common. In certain Asian countries, people often produce less body odor naturally, making deodorant unnecessary.
Many consider embracing natural scents as a cultural norm rather than masking them with products. In these regions, using deodorant might even seem excessive.
While Americans rely heavily on deodorant for daily hygiene, others find comfort in their body’s natural aroma, showcasing the diverse hygiene philosophies around the world.
13: Twigs Over Toothbrushes
Many people in various cultures use twigs as natural toothbrushes. Individuals typically choose thin, flexible branches like neem or miswak due to their antibacterial properties.
They first chew on one end to soften the fibers, creating a bristle-like texture. Next, they brush their teeth gently using these twigs, working to remove plaque and food particles.
Finally, they rinse their mouths with water. While Americans might find this practice strange, proponents argue it’s an effective and eco-friendly alternative to traditional toothbrushes.
14: Air-Drying Clothes
Air-drying clothes is a common practice in various countries, often considered eco-friendly. Steps include washing clothes, rinsing thoroughly, and hanging them on lines or racks to dry naturally.
This technique conserves energy, as it eliminates the need for electric dryers. In sunny climates, sun exposure helps reduce moisture and odors, while breezy conditions speed up the drying process.
While Americans often prefer the convenience of electric dryers, many cultures embrace air-drying as a sustainable and effective way to keep clothes fresh.
Alicia Richards