In 2014, toilet brushes became an unexpected symbol of protest in Hamburg during the so-called "Klobürstenproteste". These demonstrations arose in response to the expansion of "Gefahrengebiete", which allowed police to conduct body searches and other invasive measures without requiring concrete suspicion. As a form of resistance, protesters carried toilet brushes under their jackets, mimicking concealed weapons. This tactic was meant to confuse law enforcement and draw attention to the broadening of police powers.