Discover the Name of the Traditional Indian Style Toilet: The Johad Design

While modern bathrooms dominate global design, India’s rich architectural heritage includes an ancient and eco-friendly toilet concept known regionally as the Johad design—blending functionality with sustainability.

The traditional Indian style toilet is commonly called the Johad, a term rooted in rural water management practices. Originally a small, rainwater-fed structure, the Johad evolved into a compact, hygienic toilet that uses minimal water and integrates natural drainage—making it both sustainable and culturally significant.

Originating in rural India, the Johad reflects centuries-old wisdom in water conservation and sanitation. Its simple, circular design promotes efficient waste flow and natural composting, reducing reliance on external water sources. This ancient model inspires modern eco-friendly toilets across the subcontinent, blending tradition with contemporary health standards.

Today, the Johad name symbolizes a shift toward sustainable living. As India advances in green architecture, this traditional toilet is gaining recognition not just as a cultural legacy, but as a practical solution for water-scarce regions. Its resurgence highlights how indigenous knowledge can drive innovative, environmentally conscious design.

The Indian style toilet known as the Johad is more than a structure—it’s a testament to time-tested sustainability. By embracing this model, we honor heritage while building a greener future. Explore how this ancient design can transform modern sanitation practices in India and beyond.

An Indian toilet, also known as a squat toilet or a commode, is a type of toilet that is used in India and other parts of Asia. It is characterized by a hole in the ground that is used for defecation, and a water tank that is used to flush the waste away. To use an Indian bathroom, take off your pants and squat over the toilet with your feet planted firmly on either side.

Use the hose or bucket and cup provided in the restroom to pour water on your backside and use your left hand to clean yourself. Pour water into the toilet to flush and clean it, or use the flushing mechanism if the toilet has one. Washroom and toilet are the two most common terms, with restroom coming in a distant third.

There are two types of toilets in India - Indian and Western. Indian is the kind that is flush against the floor with a hole and two footholds (shown below). Western means a traditional commode with a seat.

What Is the Indian Toilet? An Indian toilet, also known as a squat toilet, consists of a bowl or pan and a place to put your feet on each side flush against the floor. To use this toilet, you have to squat, as opposed to sitting on a toilet seat. There are a few variations of the Indian toilet, but they all consist essentially of a hole in the ground connected to a drainage system.

How To Use. Compare Indian and Western toilets on comfort, hygiene, and more. Get insights into their benefits and drawbacks to choose the right one for your bathroom.

It is therefore imperative to understand and know what to expect. Indian style toilets are also called squat toilets. More than half the world's population uses it.

Simply it consists of a hole in the ground, located at the ground level and toilet paper is replaced with water. Western toilet seats were established in the 16th century, but at the time, these toilets were limited to the nobility and royalty. Contents show 1 How Do Indians Use The Toilet Seat? 1.1 Changing Toilet Trends In India 1.2 How To Use An Indian Toilet Seat Step-By-Step 2 Why Should You Abandon Western Toilet Seats Indian Vs Western Toilet Seat - Which Is Better?

Explore the pros and cons of Indian toilet vs Western toilet. Learn how these bathroom fixtures differ and make informed decisions for your space with East India Company. Toilets are something we use every day, but have you ever thought about how they affect your health? There are two main types of toilets: Western-style (sitting) and Indian-style (squatting).

Astral Bathware's Orissa Pan, Indian style toilet combines convenience and hygiene, a truly ideal for residential and commercial bathroom toilet spaces.