How Often Did Medieval Kings Bathe: Myths and Realities

It is a common misconception that medieval kings bathed infrequently, primarily due to the lack of modern shower facilities. However, the truth is more nuanced and varied depending on the time period, location, and social class.

Medieval Bathing Practices

In the medieval times, bathing was not as infrequent as popular belief suggests. Kings, like any other individuals, bathed as often as they desired, with the key limitation being the availability of water and heating.

Town dwellers could utilize bathhouses, albeit bathhouses often led to the spread of sexually transmitted diseases due to the prevalence of male and female prostitution. This caused a stigma, and bathing became less common. However, in more rural areas, access to water was more abundant, and bathing was more frequent. Saturdays in the Norse calendar were dedicated to washing both clothes and bodies.

Working Class Bathing

For working-class families in England, bathing was more frequent. Wealthier families also had access to better bathing facilities. Working-class families would bathe once every two weeks, using a tin bathtub placed in front of a coal fire to heat the water. Wealthier families had better facilities, and royal individuals had even more elaborate setups.

In stark contrast, in some far eastern countries, poorer establishments with limited plumbing would merely fill a bucket with cold water and pour it over themselves as a means of bathing.

ROYAL BATHING FACILITIES

Elaborate bathing fixtures were not the only reason kings like Henry VIII were called 'Honking Henry.' Rich royalty had bum wipers, also known as the 'Keeper of the Royal Stool,' which were used to clean the royal buttocks after a bath. Initially, there was no term for this position until the 18th century when the Knights of the Bath were introduced.

One notable king, King Richard IV, was a sauna enthusiast. He was often seen sniffling his armpits before his unfortunate demise. Interestingly, the King's addiction to saunas led to derogatory nicknames from the French, who called him 'Honking Henry,' which further emphasizes the cultural attitudes towards royal bathing practices.

Bathing and Customs

The frequency of bathing was also influenced by cultural and religious beliefs. Some believed that washing was necessary for spiritual and practical cleanliness, while others thought it took away their protection. After the Black Death, bathing practices changed, becoming more frequent once again.

During the medieval period, bathing was also influenced by the introduction of new scented soaps and bath oils brought back from the Crusades. This helped to clean and fragrance the skin, making bathing a more enjoyable and sanitary activity.

Conclusion

Medieval kings bathed as often as they desired, given the availability of water and heating. The frequency of bathing varied greatly based on social class, location, and personal preferences. What's clear is that bathing was not a daily mundane activity but a more luxurious yet occasional pastime.