What’s the History of Bathroom Door Signs?

Public restrooms have been around since ancient times, but the idea of gender-segregated restrooms is relatively recent. Before the 20th century, many public facilities were unisex. However, as societies grew more structured and the concept of privacy took root, the need for distinct male and female facilities emerged.

Initially, restroom signs were relatively straightforward and primarily text-based, often using formal terms like “Ladies” and “Gentlemen.” As literacy rates varied and with the increasingly multicultural nature of public spaces, the need for universal signage became evident.

Here’s when the world started using pictograms — simple, universally understood images that transcended language and literacy barriers. Over time, these pictograms have been stylized, modernized, and in some cases, humorized to fit the aesthetic and ambiance of the establishments they adorn.

Who Standardized the Stick-Figure Designs for Male and Female Restroom Signs?

According to American Bath Enterprises, the universal stick-figure designs trace back to 1974 when the U.S. Department of Transportation collaborated with design firm Cook and Shanosky Associates to create 50 “passenger/pedestrian” symbols.

These symbols evolved into the modern pictographic signs we see today, including the iconic men’s and women’s bathroom door signs — all tracing back to the Isotype, a universal graphic language developed in the 1920s.

The simplistic design of a stick figure in pants for males and a stick figure in a dress for females has since become universally recognized symbols in public restrooms. However, they’re now further evolving to reflect gender inclusivity.

How Do Bathroom Signs Differ Across Cultures?

Bathroom signs, a mundane yet essential part of our daily lives, turn into a canvas of cultural expression across different corners of the world.

• Western Countries: Typically, Western countries use the stick-figure designs, with a male figure depicted as a rectangle and a female figure often represented with a skirt or dress. Some countries and regions have also embraced gender-neutral bathrooms to foster inclusivity for transgender and non-binary people. These signs may say “Gender-Neutral,” “All-Gender,” “Unisex,” or simply “Restroom,” and often use new pictograms that blend traditional male and female symbols.
• East Asian Countries: Some Asian countries may use different or more stylized symbols and sometimes characters from their scripts (for example, 男 for “male” and 女 for “female” in Mandarin Chinese).
• Middle Eastern Countries: The signage may include Arabic script alongside universal symbols. Some conservative areas may have more discreet or segregated facilities.

As already mentioned though, establishments worldwide often get creative to add humor or aesthetic appeal. Our gallery of funny bathroom signs is packed with examples from multiple countries!