Why did 19th century cities build public baths and washhouses, and who used them?

In the 19th century, rapid industrialization and urban growth created overcrowded slums where filth was believed to cause disease, prompting a push for public baths and washhouses^[2][5]. These facilities were not just for hygiene; they were tools for social control, intended to 'civilize' the working class and maintain political stability by curbing the influence of the 'dangerous classes'^[5].

While initially seen as luxury, these spaces became essential for women, who used them as social hubs to share news and support each other while washing clothes^[2][6]. Access often reflected power, as many early efforts were philanthropic or reactive to epidemics, eventually leading to legislation that allowed local authorities to fund these vital public services^[2][4].