In America, it was common to use newspaper as toilet paper even into the 1930s
Before that, it was common to use
Leaves, grass, moss, and hay: Found in nature, these were the most common materials
Mullein: Also known as "cowboy toilet paper", the large velvety leaves of this plant
Corn cobs: Soft and easy to handle/ corn husks
Seashells: A common material
Animal fur: Used by wealthier people
Fabrics: Used by wealthier people
Sponge on a stick: Used in Ancient Rome, this was often shared between multiple people
Tersorium: A sea sponge attached to a stick
Pessoi (pebbles): Or Ostraca, which were broken pieces of ceramic pottery
Tow rag: A long piece of frayed rope that hung in the water
Chügi: A flat stick used in Japan, similar to a tongue depressor used by nurses