Can you keep wearing the toilet slippers?
In short
Better notToilet slippers are only for inside the toilet. Take them off when you leave and switch back to your own slippers.
When does this apply?
In Japanese homes, ryokan and some Japanese restaurants, special slippers are placed at the toilet entrance. Swap your slippers for the toilet ones, then switch back when you come out.
Why?
It keeps the toilet separate from the rest of the house for hygiene. Many people notice if someone walks into a corridor or room in the toilet slippers.
What to do
- Change into the toilet slippers at the toilet entrance
- When leaving, take them off and line them up so the next person can step in easily
- Put your own slippers back on before going into the corridor
Better to avoid
- Walk back into the corridor or a room still wearing toilet slippers
Exceptions and differences
Many hotel rooms and public places have no toilet slippers; you only use them where they are provided. If you forget and walk out in them, simply take them back when you notice. It happens to everyone.
Manners can differ by region, facility and generation. Local signs and staff instructions come first.
Check with a quiz
When you leave the toilet, what about the toilet slippers?
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Sources
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