Ever noticed how different cultures have their unique ways of doing things at home? It’s fascinating to see how everyday habits can vary so much across the world. Asian households, in particular, have some practices that might seem normal to them but could really surprise Americans.
In this blog, I’ll share 21 common Asian household habits that many Americans might find shocking or strange.
Taking off shoes indoors
In many Asian households, there is a strict rule to remove your shoes before entering the home. This practice keeps the floors clean and free from outside dirt. It’s also seen as a sign of respect for the home and its inhabitants. Some families even have special indoor slippers for guests to use.
Sleeping on the floor
Some Asian cultures prefer sleeping on thin mattresses or mats placed directly on the floor. This practice is believed to be good for back health and posture. It also makes it easy to store bedding during the day, creating more living space. In hot climates, sleeping closer to the ground can help people stay cooler at night.
Using a squat toilet
Squat toilets are common in many Asian countries, even in modern homes. They’re believed to be more hygienic as there’s no skin contact with the toilet. Squatting is also thought to be a more natural position for bowel movements. Many Asians find Western-style toilets uncomfortable and prefer to squat even on seated toilets.
Leaving food out overnight
In some Asian households, it’s normal to leave cooked rice in the rice cooker overnight. Other cooked foods might also be left out at room temperature for hours. While this might seem unsafe to Americans, many Asians believe certain foods are fine and left out. However, it’s important to note that food safety standards are changing in many Asian countries too.
Using a bidet or water spray
Instead of just toilet paper, many Asian bathrooms have a bidet or a hand-held water spray. This is seen as a more thorough and hygienic way to clean oneself after using the toilet. It’s also considered more environmentally friendly as it reduces toilet paper use. After trying this method, some people find it hard to feel clean without water.
Gargling for health
In some Asian countries, gargling with salt water or special solutions is a common health practice. It’s believed to prevent colds and sore throats. Some people do this every day, especially after coming home from outside. Schools and workplaces in Japan often have dedicated gargling areas.
Using a rice cooker daily
Rice cookers are a must-have appliance in most Asian kitchens. They’re used almost daily to prepare perfect rice without any effort. Many models can keep rice warm for hours without drying it out. Some advanced rice cookers can also steam vegetables or cook other grains.
Sitting on the floor for meals
In many Asian homes, it’s common to sit on the floor around a low table for meals. This practice is seen as more intimate and informal than sitting at a high table. It’s also believed to aid digestion and flexibility. Special floor cushions are often used for comfort during longer meals.
Drying laundry outdoors
Even in big cities, many Asians prefer to dry their laundry outdoors on balconies or rooftops. This practice saves electricity and is believed to make clothes smell fresher. Sunlight is also thought to disinfect clothes naturally. In some places, it’s rare to own a clothes dryer, even in modern apartments.
Using a washcloth for bathing
Instead of loofahs or body poufs, many Asians use small washcloths for bathing. These clothes are believed to exfoliate the skin better and are easy to wash and dry. Some people have different washcloths for different body parts. It’s common to see these small towels hanging in Asian bathrooms.
Leaving shoes facing the door
When removing shoes indoors, many Asians place them facing toward the door. This makes it easy to slip them on when leaving the house. It’s also considered polite to arrange guests’ shoes this way. Some believe this practice brings good luck or makes it easier for good energy to enter the home.
Bargaining for everyday purchases
In many Asian countries, bargaining is a normal part of shopping, even for everyday items. This practice is seen as a way to get a fair price and is often expected by sellers. Bargaining is also viewed as a social interaction and can be quite fun. Americans might find it strange to negotiate prices in regular stores.
Keeping an altar at home
Many Asian homes have a small altar for religious or ancestral worship. This space is used for daily prayers or offerings to ancestors. It’s often placed in a prominent location in the living room. Maintaining the altar is seen as an important family responsibility.
Using a washcloth to clean dishes
In some Asian countries, a washcloth is the primary tool for washing dishes, rather than a sponge or brush. The cloth is believed to be more hygienic as it can be easily washed and dried. This method of dishwashing might seem less effective to Americans who are used to scrubbing with a sponge.
Eating with chopsticks
Chopsticks are the main eating utensil in many Asian countries. They’re used for everything from rice to meat dishes. Using chopsticks requires practice and skill, especially for picking up small items. Many Asians find it strange to eat rice with a fork or spoon.
Avoiding cold drinks with meals
In many Asian cultures, it’s common to drink hot tea or warm water with meals. Cold drinks are believed to be bad for digestion. Some think cold liquids solidify oils from food in the stomach. This practice often surprises Westerners who are used to ice water with meals.
Using a hand fan for cooling
Despite having air conditioning, many Asians still use traditional hand fans. These are seen as a quick, quiet way to cool down without electricity. Folding fans are often carried around, especially in summer. Some of them are beautifully decorated and considered fashion accessories.
Keeping fruits in the living room
In many Asian homes, a bowl of fruit is always kept in the living room. This is for easy snacking and to offer to guests. The fruits are often arranged attractively as a form of decoration. Offering fruit to visitors is considered a sign of hospitality.
Using an electric kettle
Electric kettles are used multiple times a day in many Asian households. They’re not just for tea – the hot water is used for instant noodles, quick soups, and more. Having hot water readily available is considered essential. Many Asian people are surprised that electric kettles aren’t common in American homes.
Using a toothpick after meals
Using a toothpick after meals is common and socially acceptable in many Asian countries. Restaurants often provide toothpicks on the table. There’s even etiquette around how to use a toothpick politely in public. Some people carry a personal toothpick case with them.
Burning incense regularly
Many Asian households burn incense daily for religious or aesthetic reasons. It’s believed to purify the air and create a calming atmosphere. Some use it as a natural air freshener or to mark the time for prayer. The smell of incense is a familiar and comforting scent in many Asian homes.
23 Religious Pilgrimage Sites to Add to Your Bucket List
23 Religious Pilgrimage Sites to Add to Your Bucket List
19 Reasons Why Many People Now Prefer Handouts
19 Reasons Why Many People Now Prefer Handouts
15 Ways Life Was Tougher for Boomers
