Around 100 BC, Romans utilized the tersorium, a sea sponge attached to a stick, as a hygiene tool in public latrines. After use, the tersorium was rinsed in water or vinegar, reflecting the Romans' sophisticated approach to sanitation and public health. This practice highlights the importance of cleanliness in Roman society and their innovations in hygiene. The use of the tersorium is a fascinating example of how ancient civilizations addressed practical needs in daily life, contributing to the development of sanitation practices.

The Roman practice of using a tersorium sponge-on-stick, referenced by satirists like Martial, shaped the blunt realism of Roman epigrammatic poetry. This satirical approach to bodily functions contributed to the genre's distinct voice, blending humor with social commentary.