Islamic toilet etiquette


Islamic toilet etiquette is a set of personal hygiene rules in Islam followed when going to the toilet. This code of Muslim hygienical jurisprudence is known as Qadaa' al-Haajah.
The only requirement of the Qur'an is washing of one's hands and face with pure earth if water is not available. Issues of chirality, such as whether one uses the left or right hand, and which foot is used to step into or out of toilet areas, are derived from hadith sources.

Rules

A Muslim must first find an acceptable place away from standing water, people's pathways, or shade. They are advised that it is better to enter the area with the left foot, facing away from the Qiblah. It is reported in the hadith of Bukhari that whenever Muhammad went to the toilet, he said, Bismillahi Allahumma Inni A’uth Bika Minal Khubsi Wal Khabais . Following this prophetic ideal, Muslims are advised to say this supplication before entering into the toilet.
While on the toilet, one must remain silent. Talking, answering greetings, or greeting others is strongly discouraged. When defecating together, two men cannot converse, nor look at each other's genitals. Eating any food while on the toilet is strictly forbidden.
The anus must be washed with water using the left hand with an odd number of smooth stones/pebbles called jamrah or hijaarah, after defecating. It is now more common to wipe with tissues and also use water. Similarly, the penis or vulva must be washed with water with the left hand after urinating. This washing is known as istinja, and is commonly done using a vessel sometimes known as a bodna.
When leaving the toilet, one is advised to leave with the right foot, and say a prayer – "Praise be to Allah who relieved me of the filth and gave me relief."