Muslims who must pray five times a day are often not located near a mosque (unless you live in a Muslim country). Especially those who are traveling must usually rely on public restrooms to wash up ('abdest' or 'wudu') before prayers.
I've always been troubled by people trying to wash their feet in the public sinks. Not only is it problematic for some people to get their feet up high, it's also unsightly, especially to those who are 'foreign' to the whole thing. And it's not at all hygienic. In fact, signs are now popping up that read 'Please Don't Wash Feet.'
However, the above mechanism 'Auto Wudu Washer' is still not the answer, since it is aimed at mosques and other places of worship. And even then it's an expensive undertaking, as well as a training nightmare.
It's convenient, and saves water, but not practical. And it does not address the issue of public restrooms. I also don't see public facilities managers rushing to install these space guzzlers anytime soon at the expense of a few Muslims.
The solution to me seems very simple. I don't think anyone has a problem with people washing their hands, face, and arms in public sinks. I think someone should invent a 'feet washer' situated at the bottom of the sink, for those who have to wash their feet. It could be portable, and it could be coin operated, offsetting the expense incurred by management. Great concept, but one that needs a few redesigns, and acceptance, a la bidet. (Do you know How to use a bidet?)
In the meantime, why not carry a container (a gallon of milk bottle perhaps) in the car? Fill it with tap water from the sink, and wash your feet on the grass, away from the dry spot where you intend to pray. If you're going to pray on the grassy areas, why not wash your feet there as well. As for the public restrooms, no one wants to see your feet, and no one wants to catch germs. Be considerate; don't offend people and 'wipe away' your heavenly gains earned while praying.
The ends do not justify the means.
