Ice and fire: why the British use two cranes

Ice and fire: why the British use two taps

Everyone who has been to England or Australia has seen sinks with two taps. Where, respectively, cold and hot water flows – separately. Residents of Foggy Albion are used to it, but our tourists are at least surprised.

What do the British do?

Washing your hands only with cold is uncomfortable, because most of the year the weather in the country cannot be called hot, and they save on heating here. Maneuvering from jet to jet is also a dubious pleasure: you can burn your hands. So what are the British doing? Insert a plug into the sink drain, pour water and wash your hands in it. With soap. Do not rinse afterwards in running water, but only wiping with a towel.

Why?

The explanation is simple: save water. True, partly already out of habit: if 100 years ago this type of mixer was an urgent need, now it is also a tribute to tradition. In fact, it is also possible to put a single crane. But then more water will flow away – until you set a comfortable temperature, until you wash and rinse your hands. The British have it easier: poured a sink, washed their hands or face, drained the water. Caring for nature (and for your wallet) is a feature of the Anglo-Saxons.

How to be tourists?

Now catch the secret from the “Subtleties” and all the expats living in England. If you don't like submerging your head and hands in soapy water, buy any drink in a large plastic bottle. Empty it and make three holes – two at the top where the taps are located, and one at the bottom middle, as in the photo.

Voila! Enjoy the familiar flow of life and water.

What else to read on the topic

  • 8 rules of English life that will seem at least strange to us
  • 14 strange prohibitions that are still in force in England
  • Do the British eat oatmeal for breakfast?

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