The advent of readily accessible indoor plumbing marks a significant turning point in public health and domestic life. The provision of water directly into residences, and the subsequent removal of wastewater, moved from luxury to common amenity over a period spanning centuries and varying significantly by geography and socioeconomic status.
Access to piped water drastically reduced the incidence of waterborne diseases, improved sanitation, and freed up considerable time previously spent fetching water from wells, rivers, or public taps. The resulting improvements in hygiene also contributed to increased overall health and life expectancy. The integration of this technology into homes fundamentally altered daily routines and expectations regarding cleanliness and convenience.