Turkish Bath (Hamam) Etiquette
Traditional Turkish baths (hamam) are still popular for deep cleansing and relaxation. There are separate sections for men and women, or separate times. Special etiquette applies for this semi-public bathing experience.
Usage contextsocial
Do
- Bring or rent a peştamal (thin towel wrap)
- Wear hamam slippers or takunya (wooden clogs)
- Remove all jewelry before entering
- Relax and take your time - it's not rushed
- Tip the tellak (male attendant) or natır (female attendant)
- Stay covered with peştamal when moving around
Don't
- Don't enter completely naked - wear peştamal
- Don't enter the opposite sex's section
- Don't splash water carelessly on others
- Don't use your phone in hamam
- Don't rush the experience
- Don't bring glass bottles (safety hazard)