The Strange Things People Used as Toilet Paper Through History

Toilet paper is something most of us use every day without giving it a second thought. But before the soft, convenient rolls we know today, what did people use to, well, clean up? Turns out, humans have been pretty creative in figuring that one out.

1. Corn Cobs

That’s right—corn cobs. Back in the day, especially in rural parts of America, farmers made good use of every part of the corn. After eating, they found another way to use the cob! It may sound strange now, but it was common and got the job done.

2. Stones and Pottery

Ancient Greeks didn’t have soft tissue available, so they often used smooth stones or broken pottery shards. Stones were preferred for obvious reasons, but the fact that people ever used pottery shows the lengths folks went to for cleanliness.

3. Snow

In colder climates, snow was plentiful and made for a chilly, but effective, alternative. We don’t recommend trying this one unless you’re truly desperate.

4. Leaves and Moss

For people living in forested areas, nature provided a decent option. Leaves, moss, and grass were all used as toilet paper alternatives. Biodegradable and absorbent—nature knows best, right?

5. Wool

The wealthy in ancient Rome weren’t messing around when it came to comfort. They used wool as a soft, luxury item for personal hygiene. It was much gentler than the other options, but you had to be rich to enjoy it!

6. Catalogs

Fast forward to the 19th century, and people had moved on to things like catalogs and newspapers. The Sears catalog, for example, was a popular choice in many homes. It was informative and… multipurpose.

7. Coconut Shells

In tropical areas, people sometimes resorted to using dried coconut shells. This one seems a bit rough, but desperate times call for desperate measures!

What This Means for Your Plumbing

It’s interesting to look back at how resourceful people were, but keep in mind—modern plumbing isn’t built for these strange materials. Even items like wipes that claim to be “flushable” can cause serious clogs.

If you’ve got a blockage, don’t try to fix it with an ancient remedy—give Donnie’s Plumbing in Murrieta or visit our plumbers Temecula website a call at (954) 636-0085. We’re here to help you keep things running smoothly!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can flushing alternative materials really damage my plumbing?
A: Yes — many items don’t break down like toilet paper and can clog pipes or damage your plumbing system, leading to costly repairs.

Q: What should I do if someone flushed a non-flushable item?
A: Try using a plunger first. If that doesn’t work, call a professional plumber right away to avoid a bigger backup or pipe damage.

Q: Are flushable wipes actually safe for plumbing?
A: Despite the label, most plumbers advise against them. They don’t break down quickly and can contribute to clogs and even municipal sewer problems.

Q: What’s the weirdest thing Donnie’s Plumbing has ever pulled from a toilet?
A: We’ve seen everything from kids’ toys to a whole sock! Rule of thumb — if it’s not toilet paper, keep it out of the toilet.