George Washington thoughtfully installed outdoor privies, or "necessaries," for the daytime use of Mount Vernon residents and visitors. At night, they utilized chamber pots located in private and public rooms alike. Those who were sick, infirm, or bedridden, however, relieved themselves in specialized containers called bed pans. This example, likely used by the Washingtons, exemplifies their purpose. Its metal body, short handle, and shallow walls allowed it to be warmed and neatly slipped in-between the bed clothes, thus ensuring the user was not unnecessarily exposed to cold air.