Strange Toilet Paper
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 Donnie’s Plumbing in Temecula a call at (954) 636-0085. We’re here to help you keep things running smoothly!
