How Did Knights Go to the Toilet?

Understanding Medieval Sanitation: Knightly Toilet Habits

Knights, despite their imposing armor, had practical needs. The process of relieving oneself differed significantly based on whether they were in battle or at home.

Toilet Practices in Armor:

• Challenges of Full Armor: Knights in full plate armor faced significant hurdles. Removing armored gloves was a prerequisite for any attempt to manage the situation.
• Leg Pockets: Some armor designs incorporated “leg pockets” or openings in the thigh sections. These could be pushed aside or folded away, offering a more convenient solution.
• Laced Armor Plates: Other armors were designed with plates laced together in the crotch area. Pulling a specific band could release several plates, simplifying access.
• Simpler Armor Designs: Less elaborate or more budget-friendly armors lacked these features. In such cases, waste would unfortunately be contained within the armor itself.

Daily Life and Castle Sanitation:

• Off-Duty Comfort: When not engaged in combat, knights wore comfortable, long undergarments and knee-length tunics, making restroom breaks much simpler.
• Castle Latrines (Aborterkers): Castles often featured external toilet structures, known as “Aborterkers.” These were small wooden houses attached to the castle walls.
• The Hole and the Moat: Inside, individuals would sit over a board with a hole. Waste dropped through the opening and fell into the castle moat below.
• Defensive Odor: Over time, these moats could accumulate waste, creating a strong odor. This unsanitary condition served a practical defensive purpose, deterring attackers from attempting to cross the moat.