Why do american public toilets have huge gaps?

Question

i've just been on holiday to america, and i was horrified when using my first american public toilet on that holiday to find that there are big gaps at the sides of the door, meaning people are able to see you ON THE LOO! i was so self conscious when going to the loo! it was horrible!

why do the american toilets have these gaps, when they can so easily not have gaps, just like the toilets here in the uk?

Answer 1

It's normal for us. It's not even all that big!

Answer 2

well usually if your in a place going 2 the bathroom, there aren't pervs looking in!!!!!!!

Answer 3

Welcome to America where even the bathroom stalls are made out of cheap stuff and imported from China... I honestly don't know why there are gaps in the bathroom stalls.. it's a manufacturing thing.. I never really noticed or paid that much attention... though there are quite a few places that don't have those types of stalls... but it's really just the hinges that are used would be my guess.

And like others have said, people don't generally look for longer than it takes to see if someone is using that stall...  

Answer 4

Not all public toilets in the US are constructed the same; some have gaps, some don't. It depends on the area that the toilet stalls are fitted into. Some are little rooms with full length doors and marble...you are really generalizing here.  

And seriously, no one is looking. It's a toilet.

Answer 5

How big do you mean?  The largest I've ever seen is perhaps 2mm, and I've lived in the US my entire life.

However, my wife told me that at her high school, they removed the stall doors completely.  Apparently it was an effort to catch/prevent people using drugs in the stalls.  That's...disturbing.

Answer 6

You're just going to some lesser-quality Toilets. You should look for places like Grocery Stores or Stores to see a better quality Potty. Welcome to America. Come visit Atlanta, Georgia!!

Answer 7

size matters

Answer 8

hmm, i guess ive never thought of it, the only problem ive had with someone looking are only kids, so i guess i dont really mind it. I dont think anyone intentionally looks in anyway.  

Answer 9

We are also not going to look in on you.  If anyone looks at all, it will be the quickest glance to see whether the stall is occupied or not.  If some sicko does start peering in at you, wet some tp and throw it at her.

Answer 10

have you seen the size of those americans!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!