It is true that clothes were washed with urine in Ancient Rome. Romans had realized that urine had a cleaning effect thanks to the ammonia it contained. Urine was especially used for cleaning and whitening woolen fabrics. This process was carried out in laundries called “fullonica“. Urine was usually collected from public toilets and filled into large pots. Then the clothes were soaked in this urine, then rinsed with water and dried. This method was considered an effective cleaning method under the conditions of that period, because ammonia was very successful in dissolving grease and dirt.
What is the Modern Equivalent of This Today?
Today, instead of urine, modern detergents and chemical cleaners that provide the ammonia effect of Ancient Rome are used. Laundry detergents usually contain substances such as sodium laureth sulfate, enzymes, and optical brighteners. These substances work effectively to dissolve dirt and stains, clean and whiten fabrics. In addition, washing machines and special washing programs make the cleaning process more efficient and ** Hygienic. While ammonia-based cleaners are still used in some industrial or special cleaning products, odorless and environmentally friendly detergents** are generally preferred for home laundry.
Urine Tax
In Ancient Rome, there was a urine tax (Latin: vectigal urinae). This tax began to be implemented during the reign of Emperor Vespasian (AD 69-79). Since urine was a valuable substance for cleaning and whitening fabrics in laundries (fullonica), the sale and use of urine collected from public toilets were taxed. Vespasian introduced this unusual tax to improve the state’s financial situation. This tax was a subject of debate at the time and was criticized by Vespasian’s son, Titus. However, it is rumored that Vespasian defended this tax by saying, “Pecunia non olet” (Money does not stink). This phrase emphasizes that the source of money is unimportant and economic benefit is always valuable.
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