There have been civilizations that had some kind of toilet, says Bakker: “There was sometimes a precursor to the sewerage system, but it all fell into disrepair, especially in the Middle Ages. Then it smelled everywhere.”
The arrival of the poop chair was a revolution in the field of sanitary facilities, according to Bakker: “That was a lot, but only for the distinguished household. A chair with a bucket. And a servant who would then take away the dirty pile, so to speak. Later The common man in the countryside also received such a poop chair. A big improvement, then you don’t have to go outside at night in the winter, to a house like that, and hang your bare buttocks over the ditch.”
The Bucket depot of Museum Collection Brands also contains other sanitary material, including antique chamber pots and special bedpans that were used for bedridden patients. Brands explains: “There is a pot with even a beautiful wooden lid, completely turned, chic, isn’t it? And there are all kinds of other old aluminum sticks with large handles. Very handy!”
“And another pot has a slightly tapered shape so that you can slide it under someone really easily. It is nice and smooth, completely made of porcelain. You can put a small puddle in it. It is not very big. “
In the context of World Toilet Day, Bakker emphasizes the importance of awareness, not only about our own sanitary habits, but also worldwide: “This day is intended to draw attention to countries where sanitation is not yet self-evident. Towards a day of awareness and appreciation for the everyday, even when it comes to toilets.”