The Netherlands’ Push for More Public Toilets

There are some things you don’t think about until you really, really need one. A public toilet is high on that list. If you’ve ever found yourself anxiously searching for a public toilet while out and about in the Netherlands, you’re not alone. For a long time, the country has been what some might call a “toilet desert,” making it difficult for many to enjoy a simple day out without worry.

What the Research Says

The lack of public facilities isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a serious issue. Research from the Medical and Gastrointestinal Foundation (MDL Fonds) found that one in five people avoid leaving their homes because they fear not finding a toilet. This particularly affects people with medical conditions, limiting their freedom and ability to participate in public life. In fact, a staggering 85% of Dutch residents agree that more public toilets are needed.

The good news? Change is happening. Thanks to persistent efforts, the tide is beginning to turn. MDL Fonds has been a major force for progress. Since 2020, they have been tracking public toilet availability in the Netherlands and advocating for improvements. One of their key tools is the WC Wijzer app, which lists public and publicly accessible toilets. The number of facilities listed in the app has grown from 6,600 to over 8,300—a sign that awareness and action are on the rise.

Amersfoort Forges Ahead

Some municipalities are leading the charge. Amersfoort was recently named the most toilet-friendly municipality in the country. The city has made public toilet access a priority, even including it in its coalition agreement. With plans to add five new public toilets by the middle of this year, Amersfoort is setting a great example of how local government can make a real difference. Other places like Hattem and Terschelling are also earning high marks for their efforts.

This progress is often driven by political will. Municipalities where local councils have pushed for action are the ones seeing the most improvement. The goal set by MDL Fonds is clear and sensible: at least one public toilet every 500 meters in city centers. While the national average score for toilet-friendliness is still climbing, the upward trend is encouraging.

Of course, the work isn’t finished. But the conversation has started, and dedicated groups and forward-thinking cities are paving the way. By celebrating the successes and continuing to push for better facilities, we can help make the Netherlands more accessible and comfortable for everyone. The next time you’re out exploring a Dutch city, you might just find that relief is finally within reach.

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