What Did Ancient and Medieval People Use Instead of Tissues?

Contrary to popular belief, ancient and medieval people did not have the luxury of tissues as we know them today. Paper was not commonly known or used, particularly toilet paper. So, what did they use to clean themselves and their nose?

Common Alternatives for Nose Cleaning and Personal Hygiene

Ancients and medieval people relied on a variety of materials to attend to their personal hygiene, particularly for nose cleaning. The primary alternatives to tissues included:

Cloth: People often used pieces of cloth, commonly made of linen or wool, which could be washed and reused. Animal Skins: Some cultures utilized soft animal skins or hides for this purpose. Leaves: In regions with abundant plant life, leaves were frequently used for nose cleaning. Hands: In certain situations, individuals might have used their hands or sleeves for nose wiping.

Leaves and Nettles for Nose Cleaning

For those in areas with abundant plant life, leaves were a natural and easily accessible choice. Nettles, in particular, were noted for their soft texture against the skin.

For a more tactile experience, one can imagine the comfort of using soft leaves as opposed to harsher materials like sponges or unblemished cloth.

Toilet Paper in the Middle Ages

In the Middle Ages, toilet paper as we know it today did not exist. The concept was unfamiliar, and the materials available for similar purposes varied widely.

No Toilet Paper in the Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, people used various natural materials to clean themselves. These included:

Grasses: In many areas, grasses were utilized as cleaning materials. Water: Where available, water was used to wash away waste. Straw: Similar to leaves and grass, straw was used in some regions.

The concept of "Leave No Trace" was already in use in the wilderness areas during medieval times. The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace are still relevant today, emphasizing proper waste disposal and minimizing environmental impact. Burying human feces was a common practice to avoid pollution and the spread of disease, and packing out solid waste from specific areas like narrow river canyons was recommended.

Advancements in Personal Hygiene

The invention of toilet paper as we know it today did not occur until the early 20th century (around 1905). Before this period, people used newspapers, leaves, or sponges. The ancient Romans even used sponges for this purpose. The invention of toilet paper was a significant leap in personal hygiene, making cleaning more convenient and hygienic.

In Summary

Ancient and medieval people used a variety of natural materials for personal hygiene, nose cleaning, and toilet purposes. Cloth, animal skins, leaves, and sometimes even their hands were commonly used. The development of paper and toilet paper revolutionized personal hygiene, making it more convenient and hygienic. As history progresses, the importance of proper waste disposal and environmental consciousness continues to grow.