How to Use a Potty Stool with Indian Toilets for Better Posture

When it comes to health and wellness, the way we use the bathroom might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, it plays a much bigger role than we realize—especially in maintaining digestive health and preventing strain. While Indian-style toilets are already naturally designed for squatting, adding a potty stool can further enhance your posture, comfort, and long-term health, even if you’re transitioning to Western-style seating or caring for someone elderly.

Let’s explore how to use a potty stool with Indian toilets and why this simple tool can make a meaningful difference in your bathroom routine.

Understanding the Natural Squatting Position

Human anatomy is optimized for squatting during defecation. This position aligns the rectum in a way that allows for smoother and more complete bowel movements. In contrast, sitting at a 90-degree angle—as with most Western-style toilets—can create a kink in the colon, making it harder to pass stool and potentially leading to issues like constipation, hemorrhoids, or straining.

Indian toilets naturally encourage this squatting position. But not everyone finds it easy or comfortable to squat fully, especially seniors, individuals with joint pain, or those recovering from surgery. That’s where a potty stool comes in.

What Is a Potty Stool?

A potty stool is a small platform or step that elevates the feet while using the toilet. It’s designed to simulate a natural squat by changing the angle between your torso and thighs, which relaxes the puborectalis muscle and allows for easier elimination. While it’s commonly used with Western-style toilets, it can also support better posture with Indian toilets by offering balance, comfort, and accessibility.

How to Use a Potty Stool with Indian Toilets

Using a potty stool with Indian toilets might not seem necessary at first glance—but many people, especially seniors or children, find it helpful for stability and alignment.

Here’s how you can use it correctly:

1. Position the Potty Stool in Front of the Toilet Hole

   • Place the stool at a comfortable distance from the toilet pan.

   • It should support your feet without forcing your legs into an uncomfortable angle.

2. Step on the Stool to Get into Squatting Position

   • Step onto the stool and gradually lower yourself into a squatting position.

   • Hold onto any nearby railings or walls if you need extra support.

3. Maintain Proper Balance

   • Your knees should be bent, and your torso slightly leaning forward—this angle straightens the rectum and allows for easier elimination.

   • Keep your feet flat on the stool for a stable base.

4. Use Hand Support if Needed

   • If you're elderly or recovering from surgery, use a nearby grab bar or wall-mounted support to get up and down safely.

5. After Use, Step Off Carefully

   • Gently rise using your hands for support and step off the stool with care to avoid slipping.

Why a Potty Stool Helps – Even with Indian Toilets

While Indian toilets naturally encourage squatting, not everyone finds them easy to use. Here’s why a potty stool is beneficial:

• Provides Elevation and Balance: It assists users in achieving the correct squat depth, especially if they have reduced flexibility or muscle strength.

• Reduces Joint Strain: By raising the feet slightly, the stool reduces pressure on the knees and hips, making squatting less painful.

• Ideal for Seniors: Elderly users often struggle with balance while squatting. A potty stool provides a stable platform that makes it easier to use the toilet without assistance.

• Supports Recovery: People recovering from lower body injuries or surgeries may benefit from a stool as it allows for a more gradual and controlled squatting motion.

Additional Benefits of Using a Potty Stool

1. Prevents Constipation: By enabling a straighter alignment of the colon, the stool can help prevent constipation and bloating.

2. Reduces Hemorrhoids: Less straining means less pressure on rectal veins, reducing the risk of hemorrhoids.

3. Eases Bathroom Time: A better posture often leads to quicker and more complete bowel movements, saving time.

4. Hygienic and Easy to Clean: Most stools are made from plastic or metal, making them easy to wash and sanitize.

Choosing the Right Potty Stool for Indian Toilets

Not all stools are created equal. Here are a few things to keep in mind while shopping:

• Height: Look for a stool that elevates your feet by 7 to 9 inches.

• Non-slip Base: Ensure it has rubber grips at the bottom to prevent slipping on wet bathroom floors.

• Wide Platform: A broader surface area gives you better stability and balance.

• Durability: It should be able to withstand body weight and frequent use.

• Foldable Design: This is useful for smaller bathrooms or shared spaces.

At Mexple, we offer a variety of bathroom stools designed specifically for Indian households, including options that are compact, sturdy, and senior-friendly.

Final Thoughts

Using a potty stool with Indian toilets may seem unnecessary to some, but for seniors, individuals with limited mobility, or those struggling with digestion, it can be a life-changing addition to their daily routine. By encouraging better posture and reducing physical strain, this simple tool can lead to healthier, more comfortable, and more independent bathroom experiences.

Whether you're caring for a loved one, recovering from a medical condition, or just looking to improve your digestive health—consider adding a potty stool to your home. Your body will thank you.