The strange toilet design of the Germans that frightens every visitor, and here’s the real reason behind it.

Actually, it's not just in Germany; this type of toilet can also be found in Austria and the Netherlands. However, this design was invented by the Germans (called Flachspüler or Hochspüler), so it has been colloquially referred to as the "German-style toilet."

But why is there such a strange toilet design?

There is a logical explanation. In the past, worm infestations were extremely common in Europe, as communities used to dispose of their wastewater in rivers and then use the same water for daily activities. It wasn’t until the late 19th century that people realized the problem, and things started to improve.

The Flachspüler toilet design was introduced during this period. The flat surface serves as a diagnostic plate, allowing users to check their stool to see if they have any parasitic infestations. Additionally, the condition of the stool also reflects one's health—its color, texture, and so on. Thanks to this, Germany became one of the countries with the best health status.

However, there’s no need to worry if you’re visiting Germany. Over time, medical advancements have reduced the importance of this toilet design. Nowadays, only a few places still use toilets with this type of design.