At first glance, the gaps beneath public restroom stall doors may seem odd or like a cost-saving shortcut, but the design actually serves multiple practical purposes. One of the biggest reasons is hygiene: shorter doors allow cleaning crews to mop and sanitize floors more efficiently without having to enter each stall, ensuring that high-traffic restrooms stay cleaner.

Safety is another important factor. In case of an emergency, such as someone fainting or needing help, the gap makes it easier to see if a stall is occupied and allows quick access if rescuers need to crawl under. This small feature can save valuable time in urgent situations.

Ventilation also plays a role. Public restrooms can quickly build up odors, and the open space under the doors helps air circulate more freely. Combined with the ability to quickly see which stalls are available, this design improves efficiency in crowded places like airports, malls, and stadiums.

Finally, the gaps discourage misuse and reduce costs. Partial doors make vandalism and inappropriate behavior less likely by increasing visibility. They also require less material and are cheaper to install and maintain. While some prefer the full-length privacy doors more common in Europe, the North American approach balances safety, hygiene, and practicality.