So, there I was—lounging in a warm bath, peeling a juicy orange, when a random thought popped into my head: Wait… isn’t this illegal somewhere? I’d heard it before—maybe California? That supposedly it’s illegal to eat an orange in the bathtub. But was that real, or just another one of those urban legends that sound real?
Curiosity got the best of me. I dried off and went down a research rabbit hole. What I discovered was hilarious, confusing, and surprisingly educational. If you’ve ever wondered what state is it illegal to eat an orange in the bathtub, you’re not alone—and I’ve got answers.
Is This Bizarre Law Actually in the Books?
Let’s clear it up right away. There is no state in the U.S.—including California—where it is illegal to eat an orange in the bathtub. Not now, not historically. You won’t find this law in any real penal code or city ordinance.
It’s one of those made-up rules that shows up on every “strangest laws in America” list, even though it’s never existed. Sites keep recycling the claim, but they never back it with an actual statute or legal source.
Why California Always Gets Blamed
People love to reference weird California laws, so it’s no surprise this rumor sticks to the Golden State. Some claim it had something to do with citrus acid damaging old plumbing or porcelain bathtubs in the early 20th century. Others chalk it up to absurd public health codes.
But official sources like the California State Library have no record of any such law ever being passed. It’s just another classic California law myth.
Also Read : Can You Eat an Orange in a Bathtub in California
Why Do Fake Laws Like This Seem So Real?
The Internet Loves a Strange Law
There’s something irresistible about bizarre things that are illegal—even when they’re not actually true. The idea of being fined for snacking on an orange during a bubble bath is so ridiculous, it feels like it could be legit.
That’s why it keeps popping up in trivia games, TikToks, and blogs. But without reliable sources, it’s nothing more than a quirky internet rumor.
Some Real Laws Are Just as Weird
To be fair, some outdated laws still on the books are downright strange. Here are a few verified ones:
| State | Real Law Example |
| Arizona | Illegal for a donkey to sleep in a bathtub |
| Alabama | No wearing fake mustaches in church to cause laughter |
| Indiana | Must not catch fish with your bare hands |
Compared to those, asking is it illegal to eat oranges in the tub almost doesn’t seem that weird!
When Facts Get Juicier Than Fiction
You Won’t Be Arrested for Bathtub Fruit
There are no known cases of anyone getting in trouble for eating an orange in the bath. No arrests. No fines. No court cases. This one’s pure fiction.
If you are concerned, relax. You’re not violating any weird hygiene law or citrus restriction.
Turn Myths into Teachable Moments
This fake law is a great example of how misinformation spreads. It’s a fun way to start talking about fun facts about U.S. laws, but it’s also a reminder to fact-check before repeating something as truth.
Next time you hear someone quote a “crazy law,” ask, “Where did you hear that?” Then dig a little deeper.
Creative Ways to Use This Weird Law Myth
It’s a Great Icebreaker
The question “what state is it illegal to eat an orange in the bathtub?” is a fun trivia fact that gets people talking. Use it during road trips, game nights, or even as a conversation starter at dinner.
It’s a quirky way to test your friends’ critical thinking—and their sense of humor.
Test Your Own Media Literacy
Use this myth to sharpen your research skills. Look up laws on official state websites like leginfo.legislature.ca.gov or browse the Library of Congress.
You’ll become better at spotting fake facts in no time.
FAQ: Weird Laws and Citrus Myths
Did California ever ban oranges in bathtubs?
No. California never passed such a law, and there is no record of it in any state legislation. It’s one of many fake facts passed around as part of internet trivia.
Why do people believe this is a real law?
Because it feels oddly specific and believable. Combined with other weird real laws, this one slips into the “maybe true” category. But again, it’s 100% a myth.
What are some real weird laws in the U.S.?
There are plenty. For instance, it’s illegal to sell dyed chicks in Florida. In Kansas, it’s technically illegal to serve wine in teacups. These laws often stay on the books even if they’re rarely enforced.
Is eating oranges in the bath bad for your plumbing?
Nope. There’s no scientific reason to avoid eating citrus in a bath. If you drop a peel or two, just clean it up before it clogs your drain. But legally? You’re fine.
Citrus and Soaks? Totally Legal
You came here asking what state is it illegal to eat an orange in the bathtub, and now you know the juicy truth—none of them. It’s a long-
running internet myth with no legal basis. Go ahead and snack away during your next bubble bath.
These kinds of fun facts can be entertaining, but they’re even more useful when we use them to get curious, fact-check claims, and laugh at how wild our world really is.
So light those candles, grab your towel, and peel that orange. You’re safe, clean, and 100% within the law.
