Japan's public toilets have been declared the world's cleanest, according to research by the CrewCare team. These facilities are not only immaculately maintained but also free to use throughout the country. High-tech features include buttons that play birdsong or music to mask lavatory noises, adjustable bidet water pressure and positioning, and even transparent toilets that turn opaque when occupied.
Norway's Scenic Toilets
Norway was previously named the nation with the world's best public toilets by Design Curio. The facilities at the Stegastein viewpoint are among the finest, with queues forming as visitors enjoy stunning vistas of the Aurlandsfjord. Most conveniences along Norwegian Scenic Routes are designed by local architectural practices, ensuring enjoyable lavatory stops.
France's Free Sanisettes
Paris boasts more toilets per square metre than any other city, according to Digg research. These facilities, called sanisettes, operate from 6am to 10pm and are free of charge.
UK's Decline in Public Toilets
The UK has seen a drop in public toilets from 6,087 to 3,990 over the past decade, per Victorian Plumbing. Exeter leads with 38.7 toilets per 100,000 people, based on 2026 data from QS Supplies. Meanwhile, Chiang Mai, Thailand, has the highest per-capita count globally at 92.7 per 100,000.
