Thomas Crapper Day Date in the current year: January 27, 2026

Life without modern plumbing and toilets is unimaginable, yet modern sanitation systems are a relatively recent invention. Flush toilets, originally called “water closets”, became possible thanks to technological advancements during the Industrial Revolution. They began to emerge in the late 18th century and spread widely in the late 19th century. Contrary to popular belief, Thomas Crapper did not invent the flush toilet. However, he did make significant contributions to its popularization and invented several improvements to water closets.

Thomas Crapper was born in Thorne, Yorkshire, England, in September 1836. His exact birth date is unknown, but he was baptized on September 28. His older brother, George, was a plumber in Chelsea, and Thomas followed him into the trade by becoming his apprentice at age seventeen. After completing his apprenticeship, Crapper spent three years as a journeyman plumber.

In 1861, he established Thomas Crapper & Co. on Marlborough Road in Chelsea. Nine years later, he opened the world’s first showroom displaying sanitary ware. At the time, displaying any part of a bathroom was considered scandalous. However, Crapper’s innovation helped establish a market for indoor plumbing systems, which were new and capital-intensive. From that point on, Crapper became known for popularizing the installation of modern sanitary ware in homes.

His business grew even more in the 1890s when he was commissioned by Prince Albert (the future King Edward VII) to install a drainage system and supply sanitary ware for Sandringham House in Norfolk. This was the first of several Royal Warrants received by Thomas Crapper & Co. Two years later, Crapper supplied additional bathroom products for Sandringham House following a serious fire that necessitated further reconstruction.

However, Thomas Crapper was more than just a salesman of sanitary ware. He held several patents for sanitary improvements, including the floating ballcock for flush toilets; the U-bend trap, which, unlike the earlier S-bend, did not require an overflow; household drainage ventilation; and a foot-lever-operated toilet. Additionally, Crapper’s nephew, George, improved the siphon flush mechanism.

Crapper retired in 1904, selling the company to his nephew and business partner, and died on January 27, 1910. His death anniversary is now celebrated as Thomas Crapper Day. The holiday’s origin is unclear, and it is by no means official, but there is no doubt that Crapper deserves recognition for introducing improvements to the flush toilet and helping to popularize it.

There are many ways to celebrate Thomas Crapper Day. For example, you can learn about the history of sanitation from ancient times to the present to better understand the importance of his invention. You could also consider remodeling your bathroom. And don’t forget to spread the word about the holiday on social media using the hashtag #ThomasCrapperDay.