Ladies, here's what not to do in public restrooms.

Not every visit to a public restroom in offices, cafes, or malls allows me to have that private moment without witnessing these things.

I prioritize wherever I go... the restroom. Besides its primary purpose, it's where I can touch up my makeup, fix my hair, straighten my clothes, and ponder a bit. I believe every woman does the same.

However, not every visit to a public restroom in offices, cafes, or shopping centers allows me to have that private moment without witnessing a few cringe-worthy scenes from other women. Frankly, I'm somewhat concerned about our ladies' restroom etiquette!

Eight restroom tales.

You might think this isn't a big deal, but for those who unwillingly have to listen to nonsensical stories from other restrooms, it can be a bit uncomfortable. Some may find it tactless, while others feel awkward hearing unrelated stories. I've heard enough gossip between women in restroom chats, from secret spousal affairs, family dramas, to badmouthing others... Perhaps the restroom is the perfect place to 'unload' everything in life.

Ladies, please refrain from chitchatting in public restrooms! Having personal conversations in public restrooms can be more dangerous than you think, especially if it's in a workplace restroom. Just think, do you really know who else is using the other stalls apart from your 'allies,' and who is listening to your conversation? Perhaps all public restrooms should hang a sign: 'Here, walls have ears, please keep your secrets unspoken!' to warn women from engaging in idle gossip and loose tongues.

Phone conversations.

I often wonder why people choose the restroom as their phone booth. Once, I overheard a girl coyly asking, probably her significant other: 'Darling, do you miss me?'.

Another time, I heard a different girl, probably a salesperson, sweet-talking a client from the neighboring stall.

Sometimes, I imagine scenarios where someone calls me while pouring their heart out, but I don't find it amusing at all. Remember this, if you absolutely must make a call in the restroom, don't start your conversation with 'Hey, how are you?' or you might end up with a response from someone in the adjacent stall. Also, refrain from turning the restroom into your personal therapy session over the phone!

Lack of awareness in restroom usage.

This is the most reprehensible behavior and it reflects your awareness and culture, ladies! So, remember:

- Do not step on the toilet seat with your shoes on.

How would you feel if you walked into a restroom and saw shoe marks all over the toilet seat? Quite disgusting, right? If you're afraid of sitting directly, use toilet paper as a seat cover instead of stepping on the toilet seat.

- Do not leave the toilet seat down.

Many people have the habit of leaving the toilet seat down, which is not wrong, but that's if you're using your own toilet. If the next person walks in and sees the toilet seat down, they might think the toilet is broken and there are dreadful things inside.

- Pay attention to toilet paper & spray nozzle (if available).

Most restrooms have warnings to dispose of paper in the trash bin and not to spray water on the floor. It's the most basic requirement and you must comply.

Additionally, if the trash bin doesn't have a lid, fold or cover the dirty paper before disposing of it, so the next person doesn't have to see horrifying stains when using the restroom after you.

- After the 'big one'.

If you use a public toilet for a 'big business,' flush multiple times until it's completely clean and less smelly, and be mindful to cover up any visible traces from this 'crime scene.

- Don't hog it for too long.

It's not your personal restroom, there are still many people who need it, so quickly take care of your business and move on!