The washcloth, a traditional Dutch custom, is slowly disappearing from daily use, with fewer and fewer Dutch people incorporating it into their bathing routines. The weekly tub, accompanied by the washcloth, has been replaced by the daily shower over the years. This shift in bathing habits has led to the decline of one of the country’s oldest traditions.
According to Ineke Strouken, former director of the Dutch Center for Popular Culture and the Knowledge Center for Intangible Heritage Netherlands, the washcloth holds a special place in Dutch culture. Research even suggests that washcloths from Hema are considered the best. Strouken mentions that some Dutch people who have emigrated still hold onto their washcloths, emphasizing the sentimental value attached to this piece of terry cloth.
However, even Strouken herself admits that she no longer uses washcloths on a daily basis. While she still keeps them at home for occasions when she needs to freshen up after working in the garden or spending a hot day in the attic, she rarely uses them in the shower anymore. This change in behavior is not unique to Strouken, as more and more Dutch people are abandoning the use of washcloths.
There are two main factors contributing to this decline. The first is the advent of liquid soap, which has made solid soap, traditionally used with washcloths, less common in bathrooms. With liquid soap, the need for a washcloth is significantly reduced. Additionally, the Dutch now bathe daily, a significant departure from the past when bathing was less frequent. In the past, people would go to the well or pump and take a weekly bath with a washcloth. The introduction of showers in the 80s and 90s led to more frequent bathing and the gradual disappearance of the washcloth from daily routines.
Recognizing the environmental impact of increased showering, VVV Waterland van Friesland launched a campaign called “Ode aan de Washand” (Ode to the Washcloth) to encourage tourists to use washcloths instead of taking daily showers during the summer months. Washcloths are available on lines at various campsites, marinas, and tourist information shops in Friesland. The campaign aims to save millions of liters of water and has sparked conversations about the washcloth among participants.
The campaign has also evoked nostalgia for the washcloth among locals. Eva Meijer, owner of Hoora Water Transport in Sneek, recalls washing on the bidet with a washcloth during her childhood. The campaign hopes to promote sustainable water usage and save time by reintroducing the washcloth into daily routines.
Strouken shares the hope that this campaign will encourage the Dutch to use water more sparingly and perhaps revive the popularity of the washcloth. She believes that daily showers are not necessary and that using a washcloth can be a more sustainable and efficient alternative.
As the use of washcloths continues to decline, it remains to be seen whether campaigns like “Ode aan de Washand” will successfully revive this traditional Dutch custom.
How has the increasing popularity of daily showers contributed to the decline of washcloth usage in Dutch bathing routines?
E use of washcloths in their daily bathing routines.
The decline of the washcloth can be attributed to the increasing popularity of daily showers over the traditional weekly tub. With the convenience and time-saving nature of showers, many Dutch people have shifted away from the old custom of using a washcloth during their bathing rituals.
Ineke Strouken, a prominent figure in Dutch culture, acknowledges the sentimental value attached to the washcloth. Even some Dutch people who have emigrated still hold onto their washcloths, highlighting the significance of this piece of terry cloth in their lives. However, Strouken herself admits that she no longer incorporates washcloths into her daily shower routine. She keeps them at home for specific occasions, such as refreshing after outdoor activities or a hot day spent in the attic.
This change in behavior is not unique to Strouken but reflects a broader trend in Dutch society. An increasing number of Dutch people are abandoning the use of washcloths in their bathing routines. The traditional practice, once central to Dutch culture, is slowly disappearing as daily showers become the preferred method of personal hygiene.
The decline of the washcloth marks a significant shift in Dutch bathing habits and the fading of one of the country’s oldest traditions. While the sentimental value of washcloths remains strong for some, the convenience and efficiency of showers have led to their diminishing use among the Dutch population.
It’s disheartening to witness the decline of the washcloth tradition. This time-honored custom not only signified cleanliness, but also served as a symbol of care and hospitality. Let’s not forget the importance of preserving such simple yet meaningful traditions in our fast-paced world.