Laundry
Summary
Host Ruth Goodman explores the history of laundry, tracing methods from ancient Sumerian river washing to Roman fullones and medieval hand-washing. The episode details the grueling physical labor and toxic detergents like urine and dung used before modern machines, while also highlighting how laundresses held intimate secrets and how the invention of the washing machine ultimately liberated women.
Topics discussed
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Ancient Egyptian midwife and the importance of clean linen
Introduction to the history of laundry
Host introduction and episode overview
Sumerian and Chinese methods of washing clothes
Egyptian and Roman laundry practices
Roman fullones, urine as detergent, and gender roles
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Medieval and Victorian laundry routines for women
Historical cleaning agents: from dung to toxic chemicals
Laundry at Hampton Court and Henry VIII's health
Social status of laundresses and Madam C.J. Walker
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History of ironing from ancient tools to electric irons
Traditional laundry methods in Korea
Invention of the washing machine by William Blackstone
Global adoption of washing machines and women's liberation
Preview of next episode: Garden sheds
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