National Toilet Day

A happy person sitting on a decorated toilet seat, wearing pajamas, surrounded by bathroom decor and a cute rubber duck.. — National toilet day illustration

Hey there, fellow internet history enthusiasts! Get ready to dive into the (quite literally) fascinating world of National Toilet Day. This is one national day that's all about embracing the porcelain throne and giving it the recognition it truly deserves!

When is Toilet Day?

It's national toilet day on the 19th November.

Flushed with History

On National Toilet Day, we commemorate the invention and evolution of the humble toilet. From chamber pots to modern-day high-tech bidets, toilets have come a long way throughout history. Did you know that the ancient Egyptians were among the first to use simple sewage systems and rudimentary toilets? Talk about early adopters!

Fast forward a few centuries to the 16th century in England, when Sir John Harington introduced the concept of the flush toilet. Unfortunately, this contraption didn't quite catch on until much later. It wasn't until the Industrial Revolution brought advancements in plumbing and sanitation that toilets became a household necessity. People rejoiced as they bid farewell to outhouses and welcomed indoor plumbing with open arms (and bladders).

Today, we can't imagine life without the modern toilet. It's a place where we find solace, catch up on social media, and occasionally drop our phones in moments of pure panic. Let's give a round of applause to the visionary inventors, plumbers, and bathroom-goers who made our modern lavatories possible.

Let's Get Punny

Now, let's have some toilet-themed fun in honor of National Toilet Day:

Q: Why did the toilet paper roll down the hill? A: To get to the bottom!
Q: How do you organize a space-themed party in your bathroom? A: You plan-et!
Q: How does a penguin build its house? A: Igloos it together with snow and ice-cubes!

Why not share these jokes with your loved ones while sitting on the porcelain throne? It's sure to bring a smile to their face—or at least make them groan with laughter.

History behind the term 'Toilet'

2600 BCE

Early Indoor Waste Disposal

Archaeological evidence suggests that early civilizations, such as those in the Indus Valley, had systems for indoor waste disposal. They used basic wastewater management techniques, including drainage systems and toilets connected to underground sewers.

1500 BCE

Advanced Plumbing in Minoan Civilization

The ancient Minoans had advanced plumbing systems in their palaces on the island of Crete. They built elaborate flushing toilets with wooden seats and water channels connected to a sewage system, demonstrating early achievements in hygienic waste disposal.

2nd Century BCE

Roman Public Toilets: 'Cloacina'

During the Roman Empire, public toilets known as 'cloacina' were established. These communal facilities featured stone or marble benches with strategically placed holes. Flushing water was supplied through a constant flow system made possible by the sophisticated Roman aqueducts.

16th Century

Invention of the 'Garderobe'

In European castles and manor houses, medieval toilets known as 'garderobes' began to appear. They were small chambers with openings that projected out over the edge of the building, allowing waste to drop directly into moats or cesspits below.

1775

Alexander Cummings' Water Closet Patent

Scottish inventor Alexander Cummings obtained a patent for the 'S-bend' mechanism, which allowed for a water-sealed and odorless toilet system. His design laid the foundation for modern flushing toilets, as it effectively prevented foul air from coming back into the bowl.

1885

Thomas Crapper Popularizes Flushing Toilets

Although not the inventor of the flushing toilet, English plumber Thomas Crapper significantly contributed to its popularization. He improved on previous designs, introduced sanitary fixtures, and showcased his creations in high-profile locations, including Buckingham Palace.

1960s

Transition to 'Toilet' Terminology

In the mid-20th century, there was a shift in terminology, as 'toalet' (originating from French 'toilette') became commonly used to refer to the modern flushing toilet. Over time, 'toalet' evolved into the English term 'toilet,' which is now universally recognized as the name for this essential sanitation fixture.

Did you know?

Did you know that Thomas Crapper, an English plumber, is commonly credited with popularizing the modern flush toilet? While he did contribute to plumbing innovations, he did not actually invent the toilet. However, his name lives on in bathroom lore!