The presence of frozen water in a sanitary plumbing fixture designed for urination is a practice commonly observed in public restrooms, particularly those in commercial or institutional settings. The ice typically takes the form of small cubes or crushed fragments and is intentionally placed within the basin.
The practice serves multiple purposes. One primary reason is odor control. The low temperature of the ice helps to inhibit the growth of bacteria, a major source of unpleasant smells in restrooms. The melting process also provides a slow, continuous flush, helping to clear the fixture and minimize staining. Furthermore, some believe the ice acts as a target, encouraging users to aim more accurately, thus reducing splashing and improving overall restroom hygiene.
