In the contemporary world, the shift from traditional squat toilets to modern sitting toilets has raised questions among Muslims about how to maintain taharah—ritual purity—according to Islamic guidelines. Islam places great emphasis on cleanliness, particularly in matters of personal hygiene, and it is essential to understand how these principles apply in modern settings.

This article explores how to maintain taharah while using modern toilets and what is permissible within Islamic teachings.

Islamic Guidelines on Taharah

Islamic teachings stress both physical and spiritual cleanliness. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“Cleanliness is half of faith.” (Sahih Muslim)

Maintaining taharah involves proper cleaning after relieving oneself (known as istinja), avoiding contamination of clothes and the body, and ensuring purity before prayer (salah). These rules apply regardless of whether one uses a traditional or modern toilet.

Are Modern Toilets Permissible to Use?

Yes, using modern sitting toilets is completely permissible in Islam. The core concern is not the design of the toilet but the method of cleansing and the effort made to avoid impurity (najasah). Whether squat-style or sitting-style, the principles of cleanliness remain the same.

How to Maintain Taharah with Modern Toilets

Here are practical steps to ensure you maintain purity while using modern toilets:

1. Use of Water for Cleansing (Istinja)

Using water to clean oneself after urination or defecation is the most preferred and authentic method according to the Sunnah. A bidet, handheld sprayer, or even a cup of water can be used effectively to perform istinja.

2. Use of Tissue Followed by Water (Istijmar and Istinja)

If water is not available, it is permissible to use tissue or toilet paper to remove impurities (istijmar), provided the area is cleaned properly. Ideally, this should be followed by washing with water when accessible.

3. Avoiding Splash or Contamination

When using modern toilets, it’s important to be cautious of water or waste splashing back, which can cause najasah on clothes or the body. Some people use toilet liners or tissues in the bowl beforehand to prevent splashing.

4. Sitting Down While Relieving Oneself

Though many hadith mention squatting, Islam does not make it obligatory. The key point is modesty and cleanliness. Sitting toilets are acceptable, and one can still maintain proper etiquette by being mindful and avoiding exposure of private parts unnecessarily.

5. Hand Washing and Hygiene

After cleaning oneself, it is essential to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water. This practice is supported both by Islamic etiquette and modern health standards.

Common Misconceptions

• "Squatting is the only Islamic way" – While squatting is the traditional method and has health benefits, Islam does not mandate a specific posture for relieving oneself.

• "Modern toilets are impure" – The impurity lies in uncleanliness, not in the toilet design. Proper istinja and hygiene practices are what matter.

Conclusion

Modern toilets can be used without compromising Islamic principles of taharah. The emphasis in Islam is always on cleanliness, proper hygiene, and avoiding impurity—regardless of the tools or technology used. By following correct methods of cleaning and being mindful of hygiene, Muslims can confidently use modern facilities while staying true to their faith.

Maintaining taharah is not only about ritual purity but also reflects the beauty and discipline of Islam in daily life.