Woman starts public toilet debate as she queries 'correct' way to use them

When using a public toilet, you might instinctively avoid the loo next to an occupied one if there are other options available.

However, for some people, this isn't a concern and they'll use any available stall.

A woman felt so strongly that her choice of cubicle followed "toilet etiquette" that she took to the internet to seek validation on whether her stance was correct, igniting a heated discussion about the dos and don'ts in a public restroom.

She sketched out a layout with the entrance on the left, showing cubicles A, B, and C in a row, and sinks directly across. She queried online: "Am I being unreasonable that C is the 'correct' choice of cubicle, assuming all cubicles are empty upon entry?".

On Mumsnet, the woman detailed her experience of being in cubicle C when another person came in shortly after and chose cubicle B. She expressed her bafflement, saying: "I think that's madness and can't fathom why, out of the two remaining cubicles available, you'd opt to go into the one right next to someone. Curious to know if others would have done the same."

She also mentioned a belief that "statistically, A is apparently the cleanest cubicle, due to it being used least", as people often skip the first stall thinking it's the most frequented, thus it ends up being overlooked.

The post sparked a passionate debate in the comments section about what constitutes 'proper' toilet etiquette. One commenter stated firmly: "I always use the first free cubicle I find. I don't care if you are in the next cubicle or if there is an empty cubicle between us. There are no rules."

Another commented: "I honestly don't think it matters. They are private, contained cubicles. If you're worried about your neighbour hearing something you don't want them to hear, I don't think there's much difference between A or B. I can't believe you've gone as far as to create a diagram for this total non-issue."

Yet another user wrote: "Yeah this isn't like blokes at a urinal - it's a cubicle, so anything goes."

Some users on Mumsnet did agree with the original poster, though, with one stating: "I'm with you, I always leave an empty cubicle between myself and others if possible."