It is usually water that has already been used in the washing machine that most householders look to recycle.

Grey water also includes waste water from the kitchen and bathroom but toilet water is called black water. Recently Graham Ross and the Better Homes and Gardens team installed a simple system in a small domestic situation. A fitting to attach a hose from the washing machine to a tank were bought from a hardware store. If you are looking for more information or a more sophisticated system check out these useful links:

Note: All local councils and water authorities have different regulations. Do check with both before proceeding.

Cool Communities Program, University of NSW Ecoliving Centre
www.ecoliving.cat.org.au

EPA Victoria's publication 812
www.epa.vic.gov.au

Laundry detergents info
www.savewater.com.au

Using greywater for the toilet
www.wattworks.com.au

WA recycling system
www.greywatersaver.com

Environmentally sensitive plumbers
www.greenplumbers.com.au

Tips
1. Don't drink or let children play in greywater.
2. After about 24 hours in a holding tank the nasties in grey water will start to breed!
3. Use liquid soap powder.
4. Don't bother with any water flowing down a kitchen sink - there's too much oil, fat and detergent.