Greywater

Greywater is the name used for water that is discharged from fixtures such as showers, baths and washing machines. It excludes water discharged from toilets and the kitchen.

The temporary use of greywater, particularly in times of severe water restrictions, may help sustain your garden. However, the use of greywater does have risks and it is important that appropriate care is taken with its use.

Please download Using Greywater - the essential guide to collection & use (PDF - 242KB).

When buying detergents, read the product information carefully. Choose a product which contain little or no phosphorus and is biodegradable. Choose liquid detergents rather than powders as powders have between 10-20 times more salt, which can be damaging to your soil. Use only the amount required.

If you wish to permanently use greywater there are a number of greywater treatment systems which have been approved by the EPA which maybe used. For more information visit Household greywater reuse (EPA website).

Using Greywater - Do's & Don'ts

Do

• Do only use greywater from baths, showers, hand basins and washing machines (preferably the final rinse water).
• Do only use greywater on the garden and rotate which areas you water.
• Do only apply enough water that the soil can absorb.
• Do wash your hands following watering with greywater.

Don'ts

• Don't use greywater during wet periods.
• Don't use greywater if odours are generated and plants do not appear to be healthy.
• Don't water vegetable gardens if the crop is to be eaten raw.
• Don't use greywater that has faecal contamination, for example water used to launder nappies.
• Don't use kitchen greywater (including from dishwashers) due to the high concentration of food wastes and chemicals that are not readily broken down.
• Don't store greywater for more than 24 hours.
• Don't let children or pets drink or play with greywater.
• Don't allow greywater to flow from your property or enter stormwater systems.