Wild West Hygiene Practices That Are Best Left in the Past

Haircare in the wild wild west took an intriguing turn. Forget the fragrant shampoos we know today—back then, it was all about lard and lye soap bars that were scentless and practical. But wait, there’s more! Some daring individuals turned to an unconventional blend of whiskey and castor oil to cleanse and condition their tresses. Talk about a wild haircare cocktail! Can you imagine putting all of these random products in your hair?

Most people think of cowboys and Western films when they think of the wild west, but it was a time full of dirty practices. Specifically, a time when modern toilets were mere figments of the future. Outhouses, those outdoor sheds covering holes in the ground, were the norm. Imagine the unsanitary conditions: pungent odors, bugs galore, and no toilet paper. That’s right—this essential didn’t grace the Western world until the mid-1800s. 

The world of old western saloons was a time when booze flowed freely, and adventures unfolded. But beneath the lively facade lay a hidden truth that will make your skin crawl. People would venture into uncharted territories full of makeshift saloons known for serving a notorious brew known as “rotgut” liquor. This was usually poor-quality random liquors combined, and it wouldn’t be surprising to learn that it could make people sick after drinking it. 

Imagine a world where beds consisted of straw and hay, without any bed frames to elevate them. It may seem unthinkable today, but that was the reality of the past. Comfort was a secondary concern, as sleeping on straw was still preferable to the bare floor. However, it was extremely difficult to have proper sanitation, and regular replacement of the straw was often impractical. This led to some less-than-ideal sleeping arrangements. 

Cowboys and cowgirls of the Wild West era weren’t just fashion trendsetters; their choice of accessories served a dual purpose – practicality and hygiene. Bandanas provided protection against the gritty winds and scorching sun; there’s another hidden benefit. In a time when access to clean water and regular bathing was limited, personal hygiene practices weren’t always up to par. The bandanas, often worn around the neck or face, acted as a makeshift shield. 

The lack of essential dental care resources meant oral hygiene took a backseat to survival, and ​a pristine smile was a rare gem. Toothbrushes were a luxury, and brushing was an afterthought for many. But it gets worse. When faced with dental issues like cavities or root canals, the remedies were far from sophisticated. Brace yourself, as the favored method was simply barbers or even blacksmiths acting as makeshift dentists and extracting the offending tooth with players! 

Back in the Wild West, people had to get creative when it came to bathroom business. Toilet paper wasn’t a thing for a long time, so they resorted to using corn cobs, torn pages from magazines, and catalogs. It wasn’t until 1857 that Joseph Gayetty introduced “medicated paper,” but it was sold individually, not on rolls. Roll-style toilet paper didn’t arrive until 1890, along with the invention of the toilet paper holder.

In the rugged and dusty terrain of the American West, cleanliness took on a whole new meaning. The pioneers and cowboys held a peculiar notion that bathing too often could actually harm their health. They feared that frequent washing would leave their pores vulnerable, becoming breeding grounds for bacteria and diseases. However, the reality was far from ideal. With limited access to clean and uncontaminated water, many settlers had no choice but to forgo regular showers and baths.

Step back in time to the Old West, where barbers held a special place in society. They were seen as knowledgeable figures, providing not just haircuts but also advice on hygiene. However, their recommendations weren’t always the best. People praised them for promoting personal cleanliness as a key to comfort and health. But little did they know that some of the practices and products suggested by barbers, like using questionable lotions and powders, weren’t truly effective.

The wild west was a time when the luxury of running water was but a distant dream. As the United States expanded westward in the 19th century, most regions lacked adequate water infrastructure. While established areas enjoyed the convenience of irrigation and filtering systems, venturing into uncharted territories meant leaving behind these modern amenities. This also meant that showering, brushing your teeth, and even drinking fresh water were all challenging. 

In the Wild West, men’s hairstyles became more than just a fashion statement – they revealed a traveler’s tales. Most men avoided getting a haircut because they were traveling around on the run. Therefore, they weren’t cleaning and grooming themselves. So their long hair was representative of how long they were on the road. And most likely, how long they’ve gone without a good shower. You can imagine how smelly their hair would get!

There was a time when a terrifying epidemic known as syphilis swept through the population like wildfire. In the quest for a remedy, medical professionals turned to a substance that seemed to hold the key: mercury. Despite the severe side effects, patients endured a grueling routine of daily applications of mercury ointment. This reckless treatment could last for years while unleashing many horrors upon the afflicted. However, people were convinced the treatment was worth it.

In the modern era, we’re spoiled for choice, with many soap brands for every preference; the options seem endless. However, in the days of the wild west, the soap selection was far more limited. Yet, that didn’t mean they went without. Their soaps boasted a straightforward recipe. Typically composed of animal fat, lye, and water and infused with herbs for scent and added effects, these cleansers got the job done. 

In the saloons of the Western frontier, it was a common sight to see men spitting tobacco on the floor. Spittoons and cuspidors were placed along the bar to collect the spit, but it didn’t solve the problem. The floors were covered with sawdust to soak up the spit, creating a breeding ground for germs. It became a hotbed for respiratory diseases like pneumonia and tuberculosis. To make matters worse, travelers who rented rooms in these saloons slept amidst this unhygienic mess.  

In the 1800s, amid the grandeur and excitement of Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, there were behind-the-scenes realities that highlighted the unsanitary conditions of the time. Behind the dazzling performances and thrilling reenactments, the show faced challenges in maintaining proper hygiene. With limited access to sanitation facilities, performers and staff struggled to maintain cleanliness amidst their rigorous schedules. The dusty arenas and crowded encampments provided the perfect breeding grounds for germs and diseases, posing health risks to both performers and audience members. 

Picture yourself in the wild west, where dirt was an unwelcome companion clinging to every nook and cranny. But how did people cope with this constant filth? Well, the resourceful women of the era had their own tricks up their sleeves. Every morning, they embarked on a quest for cleanliness, venturing to springs or streams to wash their faces and quench their thirst. But there was one catch that really prohibited things from getting fully clean.

When we imagine cowboys, we envision tough and rugged individuals with a deep bond to their loyal steeds. Riding across vast landscapes and embarking on daring escapades, their partnership is the stuff of legends. But behind the romanticized façade of the Wild West lies a less glamorous truth. Cowboys, known for their infrequent bathing, unintentionally subjected their beloved horses to the same fate. As these traveled great distances, proper hygiene took a backseat for both rider and horse.

While indoor plumbing arrived in big cities like New York as early as 1842, it took several more years for the West to catch up. By 1920, a mere 1% of homes in the entire United States could afford any form of indoor plumbing. However, for the majority of rural homes in the Wild West, hand-pumped water was the best they could hope for. Most bathrooms then resembled porta potties today. 

In the early days of the Wild West, having a bathtub in your home was a luxury that most households couldn’t afford. The lack of proper bathtubs was mainly due to the inconvenience of carrying water, heating it, and filling a tub. It wasn’t until Sears, Roebuck & Co. began publishing mail-order catalogs in 1894 that people had access to affordable tubs. However, even then, a Sears catalog tub would cost nearly $800 in today’s money.  

In this stunning historical photograph, we catch a glimpse of the untamed Colorado River as it once flowed near the Hoover Dam site. But what lies beneath the surface is a tale of unsanitary conditions that plagued the river and its surroundings. In the wild days of the past, the Colorado River was subject to pollution and contamination from various sources, including mining activities, industrial waste, and inadequate waste disposal practices.

Hold on to your cowboy hats, folks, because we’re about to reveal a dirty little secret from the wild west! Picture this: frontiersmen, rugged and determined, battling not only the elements but also an unhygienic nightmare. We’re talking about dust storms that would make your jaw drop and sand that seemed to infiltrate every nook and cranny. These brave souls had to get creative to stay clean amidst the chaos.

In the wild west, cleanliness was a battle against the elements. With water scarcity plaguing the era, bathing became a luxury, and some folks were lucky to wash once a week! But here’s the twist: women emerged as the hygiene heroes of the frontier. Tasked with indoor chores, they had better access to precious water and maintained a higher level of cleanliness. Meanwhile, men toiled outdoors, battling dusty winds and grime without frequent bathing. 

Picture this: courageous frontiersmen and daring pioneers setting out on an epic quest to conquer the untamed territories of the Wild West. But little did they know that with every step they took, they were unwittingly becoming carriers of unseen enemies—germs! As they traversed vast landscapes and encountered new communities, these explorers unknowingly spread bacteria and viruses from one corner of the frontier to another. With limited medical knowledge and resources, diseases ran rampant.

In an era where intimate issues were hushed, one peculiar product took center stage: Lysol. Yes, you read that right. Originally marketed as a household disinfectant, Lysol found an unexpected role in personal hygiene. Women seeking relief from uncomfortable conditions turned to this potent concoction to address feminine concerns. Astonishingly, Lysol was marketed as a cure-all for everything from yeast infections to contraception. Little did they know the harsh chemicals and toxins lurking within Lysol could do more harm than good. 

While daily showers may not have been the norm, the pioneers found solace in the rejuvenating waters of Colorado’s thermal springs. Pagosa Springs stood out as a haven for relaxation and cleanliness among these natural wonders. The pioneers would immerse themselves in the mineral-rich waters, believing in their healing properties. These hot springs became revered not just for their therapeutic benefits but also as a way to escape the challenges of frontier life. 

Desire and danger were intertwined in saloons and brothels. Behind the allure of the painted ladies, a hidden menace lurked—the risk of venereal disease. Shockingly, it’s estimated that half of the region’s adult entertainers were afflicted with these contagious infections, and the use of hazardous remedies like mercury and boric acid only exacerbated the danger. This meant that transmitted infections among adult entertainers and their customers spread like wildfire. The true extent of the havoc wreaked by venereal diseases remains unclear, as death certificates often concealed the cause of death.

In an era where illnesses and unhygienic environments were rampant, and medical treatments were scarce, these thermal waters held a mystical power for healing. Picture a time when back pains and inflammations were common ailments. Instead of modern creams and treatments, American and European medical professionals recommended a journey to the hot springs. Pioneers would embark on arduous journeys, traversing thousands of miles to immerse themselves in the therapeutic waters. 

Personal hygiene practices often took a back seat during this time. Long, unkempt hair became a common sight among pioneers and cowboys, serving as a testament to their journeys. However, as time progressed and awareness grew, a shift occurred. Men began to recognize the importance of proper hair hygiene and the potential risks of neglecting cleanliness. With improved technology and grooming tools, a new trend emerged – the clean-cut look. 

In the Wild West, disease was the leading cause of death among pioneers. Around nine out of ten pioneers succumbed to illnesses like dysentery, smallpox, measles, mumps, influenza, cholera, mountain fever, and scurvy. Cholera, in particular, was the most common and deadly disease. It spread through contaminated water, which was abundant in the unsanitary conditions of the time. Pioneers faced the constant risk of infection and death due to poor hygiene practices and the lack of clean water sources.

In the unpredictable world of the Wild West, people found solace and comfort through various means, including superstitions and mystical practices. However, these practices existed alongside the harsh realities of limited access to clean water and proper hygiene. With water scarcity and challenging living conditions, unhygienic practices could make people very sick. So how would they deal with it? They would turn to fortune tellers to get a glimpse into their fate and futures.  

While the Old Mission Church in New Mexico stands as a symbol of rich history and cultural heritage, it holds secrets of unsanitary practices from the past. Back in the days of the Wild West, hygiene was often neglected, and the church was no exception. With transitions in ownership and occupations by various groups, the church lacked proper maintenance and sanitation. Dust and dirt settled on its ancient walls, making it a breeding ground for bacteria and allergens. 

In the pursuit of wealth and prosperity during the wild west era, miners faced perilous conditions that extended beyond treacherous tunnels and backbreaking labor. One of the most significant threats to their health was the constant exposure to airborne respirable dust, a hazard that lurked within the mining environment. The inhalation of these extra fine particles posed a grave danger, leading to the development of a debilitating lung disease known as pneumoconiosis. 

With limited access to proper medical care, the pioneers and doctors were few and far between, so pioneers had to get creative when it came to treating their ailments. They turned to unconventional remedies and elixirs in their quest for health and wellness. The lack of sanitation and hygienic standards meant that cleanliness was often neglected. Dust-covered clothes, infrequent bathing, and unkempt appearances were the norm. Alcohol drinks were used as a sedative. 

Hygiene was a luxury, and sickness lurked around every corner during this time. But amidst the filth, pioneers had some surprising remedies up their sleeves. If a cowboy had a toothache and was desperate for relief, there was one solution. Enter cocaine, yes, you read that right! In the 1880s, toothache drops containing cocaine were all the rage. This powerful substance acted as a local anesthetic, numbing the pain and giving cowboys a temporary respite from dental agony.

When we conjure up images of the Wild West, we often envision cowboys feasting on hearty meals around campfires. But the reality of pioneer diets in those rugged times was far from extravagant. In fact, they often ate beans as an entire meal. Another surprising staple found its way onto the menu, and that is whiskey. Sometimes they would drink whiskey as an entire meal. Clearly, taking care of themselves was the least of their worries.

In the untamed era of the wild west, chewing tobacco was more than just a gross habit—it served a purpose. Beyond its addictive nature, many individuals turned to chewing tobacco as a means to combat dryness while outside in dusty fields all day. The moisture from the chew provided comfort, keeping their mouths salivated during long hours outdoors. However, this practice came with a pretty disgusting side effect: copious spitting. 

In the untamed frontier of the Wild West, there existed a world of vice and temptation. Cowboys and settlers sought solace from their harsh lives through three main outlets: whiskey, gambling, and brothels. Whiskey flowed freely, providing a temporary escape from the challenges they faced. Gambling dens and saloons became hubs of excitement and risk, where fortunes were made and lost in the blink of an eye. And then there were the brothels, catering to the desires of those seeking companionship and pleasure. 

In the realm of Wild West entertainment, the saloon reigned supreme as a haven for cowboys seeking a reprieve from the dusty trails. But the drinks offered within these harsh establishments were far from refined. Whiskey, the drink of choice, had a recipe consisting of scorched sugar, potent alcohol, and even bits of chewing tobacco. This concoction packed a punch like no other, rendering many cowboys rowdy and prone to violence.