March 29, 2024
BANGOR DAILY NEWS (BANGOR, MAINE

Most private room at home always available to visitors

We usually think of the bathroom as the most private room in our house. But it is the room which is always made available to visitors. Away from our scrutiny, there is no one to stop them from peeking into cabinets and drawers, drawing conclusions about our habits and lifestyles that we never meant to share.

Q. The only time we have trouble with our plumbing is when carelss guests abuse the facilities.

A. Problems arising from the use of bathrooms do seem to occur more frequently when guests are present. The phenomenon is easier to understand if we accept our guests’ unfamiliarity with a room which is unique to every household.

In order to protect ourselves and our property, we need to think the way our guests do and anticipate their needs and concerns. Are soap and towel conveniently located and easd? Is the wastebasket in view and near at hand? Are wrappers for the disposal of feminine hygiene products available for the use of guests? Is there a protective covering over the basin drainpipe opening? Has a non-slip mat been placed in the tub used by houseguests and is the curtain or door over the shower area adequate to protect the rest of the room? Sensitive hosts can minimize the possibilities for a mishap.

Q. Are fancy guest towels found in bathrooms supposed to be used or are they just for show? They sometimes look so perfect that I am afraid to use them.

A. If the towels are there, use them.

There are a few householders who like the decorative effect of perfect guest towels and would probably prefer that you did not touch them. The most thoughtful hosts, however, select furnishings that make their guests feel comfortable.

Q. Which way should the roll of toilet paper be placed in the holder? Should the end be away from or toward the wall?

A. Fashionably, the end is away from the wall. In hotels that cater to such sensitivities in their clients, the staff folds and tucks the first sheet so the guest can immediately locate the beginning of the roll.

Practically, placing the end away from the wall requires less handling when searching for the roll end. This becomes aesthetically and hygienically important (especially for subsequent users) when guests require second helpings of the toilet paper.

Q. Why is it so important to keep the toilet seat down? Does this requirement apply to the lid, too?

A. Persons who profess to be considerate of others should leave bathrooms in a state of readiness for the next occupant. The toilet should be flushed and the seat dry. Both seat and lid should be left in a closed position to protect the plumbing system from users who carelessly or inadvertantly drop objects into the bowl.

A closed toilet also protects thirsty pets and curious toddlers. This is a habit which all should practice because just one failure could provide an opportunity for a small child’s death by drowning.

Q. We are renovating our bathroom. Other than choosing a reputable contractor and staying within our budget, what else must we consider?

A. When you plan your new bathroom, be responsive to the needs of the many people who will use it now and in the future. The height of the basin and toilet, space around the units, and the accessconvenient for your present family members and others, such as children, the elderly infirm, and persons who are permanently or temporarily handicapped.

Q. Why do some people barge into bathrooms even though the door is closed?

A. They probably have many reasons, but I can’t think of any that can excuse their thoughtless behavior. Always knock before entering a closed bathroom door, and give the occupant a minute or two to reply. Do this at home and you will be sure to remember this courtesy when visiting others.

If you fail to hear the reply and open the door inadvertantly, apologize quickly and briefly and leave immediately.

If someone walks in on you, immediately call out “The bathroom’s in use” or other appropriate discouragement. And next time, lock the door.

Lee Ryckman is a free-lance writer who lives in Bangor.


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