public bathing public bathing public baths originated when most people in population centers did not have access to private bathing facilities. though termed "public", they have often been restricted according to gender, religious affiliation, personal membership, and other criteria. in addition to their hygienic function, public baths have also been social meeting places. they have included saunas, massages, and other relaxation therapies, as are found in contemporary day spas. as the percentage of dwellings containing private bathrooms has increased in some societies, the need for public baths has diminished, and they are now almost exclusively used recreationally. the asser levy public baths in manhattan, new york city (1904–1906, restored 1989–1990) history