Picture this: you’re standing in a public hallway, urgently needing to use the restroom, but you’re stuck, frozen in place. Why? Because the signs on the doors are so ambiguous that you can’t tell which one is which. Sound familiar? Many of us have been in that situation, and it can be both frustrating and embarrassing.

Restroom signs have one job: to clearly indicate which facility is designated for men and which is for women. Yet, many public spaces overcomplicate this task with abstract designs or cultural stereotypes.

In recent years, restroom signage has expanded to include gender-neutral options, but this can add confusion for those used to traditional signs. Some signs are too abstract, relying on symbols or humor that can be hard to interpret in a rush. For instance, minimalist silhouettes or overly artistic representations leave room for misinterpretation.

To ensure clarity, we need universally recognizable symbols, text labels, and inclusive designs. This small change can have a big impact on accessibility and inclusivity.