Ancient Romans shared sponges on sticks for toilet paper
Ancient Romans used reusable sponges on sticks, called tersoria, in communal latrines, showcasing their innovative public sanitation alongside surprising social norms.
Imagine public restrooms where everyone used the same sponge on a stick to clean themselves! This was the reality in ancient Rome. Called a tersorium, this sea sponge attached to wood was dipped in water or vinegar before and after use. Dating back to at least 1st century BCE, these were common in multi-seat latrines that accommodated dozens of people without privacy dividers.
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