Planet Money
Why it's so hard to find a public toilet
May 2, 2025
Finding a public bathroom can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The journey through the story of pay toilets reveals how a grassroots movement fought to abolish them, leading to unintended consequences. Challenges in maintaining public restrooms are examined, reflecting the struggle between urban policy and societal needs. Experts emphasize the crucial role of access to clean toilets for community health. Ultimately, the podcast highlights disparities in restroom availability and the ongoing quest for better facilities in urban settings.
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Quick takeaways
- The decline of public toilets in the U.S. stems from movements against pay toilets, leading to decreased accessibility for all.
- A crowdsourced Google map by Teddy Siegel highlights community-driven solutions for locating accessible restrooms, addressing urban hygiene needs.
Deep dives
The Bathroom Map: A Resourceful Solution
One key initiative highlighted is a crowdsourced Google map created by Teddy Siegel, which catalogs accessible restrooms across New York City and beyond. This resource emerged from her personal struggles to find public restrooms while shopping in the city, leading to a TikTok series that shares tips and recommendations for finding free bathrooms. Locations such as churches and bookstores are included, catering to the needs of those in search of a toilet without having to purchase something. The map exemplifies how community engagement can provide innovative solutions to everyday problems, addressing the critical need for accessible sanitary facilities in urban spaces.
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