The Norse peoples and Vikings have a reputation of being might and fierce warriors, axes in hand, venturing the seas and wading into battles. Yet, far from being unkempt thugs, the Norse peoples placed significant importance on personal hygiene and grooming.
One of the main sources that offer insights into Norse hygiene is archaeological findings from burial sites and excavated settlements. Evidence suggests that they were very clean for their era, especially compared to other contemporary European societies. Norse people commonly used tools such as combs, tweezers, ear cleaners and even toothpicks, many of which were made from animal bones, antler, or wood. These items were found in abundance across different archaeological dig sites, from Iceland to Norway, indicating that grooming was a widespread practice, not just limited to the upper echelons of society.
Combs, in particular, were highly valued by the Vikings. Their construction, often intricately carved from animal horns and bones, demonstrates the cultural significance of maintaining clean and untangled hair. Combs were typically carried in small leather pouches attached to belts, making them convenient for travel or use during daily activities. This portable approach to hygiene highlights a society that valued self-presentation and cleanliness, even while on the move.
While the concept of a “daily bath” in the modern sense did not exist in Europe during the early Middle Ages, the Norse peoples still maintained regular bathing practices. Norse sagas and written accounts from the era describe a weekly bath routine, typically on Saturdays. This day became known as laugardagr, which translates to “washing day” and is still reflected in the Scandinavian word for Saturday today. Weekly baths were not only an act of cleanliness but also a social ritual where people gathered, exchanged news, and even conducted business.
Hot springs were particularly valued in Iceland, where they provided a naturally heated water source. In other areas, such as Denmark and Norway, villages were typically located near rivers or lakes, allowing for easy access to fresh water. When natural water sources were scarce, buckets and tubs filled with heated water were used. Bathhouses were constructed in larger settlements, though these were typically reserved for communal use.
Maintaining cleanliness extended to Viking clothing, which was often made from wool or linen. These materials were selected not only for warmth but also for their relative ease of cleaning. The Norse people used natural soaps, made from animal fats and wood ash to clean their clothes and themselves. This homemade soap had a somewhat coarse texture, but it was effective at removing dirt and grime. The use of soap by Norse peoples and Vikings was noted by early English chroniclers, who remarked on the Norse people’s “excessive” cleanliness compared to their own contemporaries.
The Norse were probably the cleanest people in the Dark Ages. According to the Saxon cleric, John of Wallingford, they bathed weekly, on a Saturday. Wallingford complained that this, and their habit of changing their clothes regularly, was to “undermine the virtue of married women and even seduce the daughters of nobles to be their mistresses.”
Bone Combs, Pins and Spindle Whorls from Coppergate, York
The grooming and well-dressed nature of the Norse peoples reflected the values of a larger culture. It has been suggested that the belief in Wyrd (fate) played a role in this. Death was recognized as an unpredictable, unavoidable and already determined moment in time, from which not even the Gods can escape. Norse poetry, particularly the Hávamál and Reginsmál, stressed the importance of starting each day "combed and washed," as one could never know where they might end up by evening or if they would still be alive.
According to Sagas and Eddas, the departed soul would arrive in the afterlife appearing as they did in life. For instance, the heroes of Valhalla would retain their armor and weaponry. Daily grooming and dressing ensured that one would not be ashamed in the presence of both Gods and ancestors.
In Norse society personal appearance was intertwined with honor and reputation. Being well-groomed signified respect for oneself and others. Even in times of war or travel, warriors are believed to have maintained their hygiene routines, understanding that a clean and organized appearance could convey strength and discipline to allies and enemies alike.
Sources:
Winroth, A. (2014). The Age of the Vikings. Princeton University Press. ISBN: 9780691169293.
Jesch, J. (1991). Women in the Viking Age. Boydell Press. ISBN: 9780851153605.
Picture from the Lofotr Viking Museum and staff
