Grey (shower/bath) Water

BenDover

I've read that if you're going to use grey water from a washing machine to water plants, then use something like ECover as its probably better than Daz et al, but what about if using grey water from a shower or bath?  I use 'Original Source' which says it's good enough for vegans.  Is it good enough for my plants?

Hostafan1

BenDover said:

I've read that if you're going to use grey water from a washing machine to water plants, then use something like ECover as its probably better than Daz et al, but what about if using grey water from a shower or bath?  I use 'Original Source' which says it's good enough for vegans.  Is it good enough for my plants?

so long as it's used right away. Don't "store" it in a water butt

Blue Onion

We use Sea to Summit biodegradable shampoo when camping and washing with a solar shower or in the river.  Or maybe put some sort of sand/charcoal filter on the system?  I've seen them for turning rain water into drinking water.  

Something like this.. but without the UV, your plants don’t need it sterile. 

BenDover

Thanks Hostafan1. I've got a water butt pump that I was planning to use directly from bath to border.

Blue Onion

@Fire uses their bath water.. any expert suggestions Fire?

Fire

Hi, yes, I use a siphon and a hose and gravity to take shower or bath water to the garden. Luckily my bathroom has a window over the back garden. Details are here.

Eco products are recommened. I tend to position the hose outflow at the base of newly planted shrubs and trees as they need the most water and I don't have to run downstairs - I just let it flow.

• Don't store grey water, as it has bacteria like ecoli and starts to smell quickly
• Don't water edibles with grey water
• Washing machines are fine as long as the water input is higher than the hose outflow
• Dish washer not good because of the salt used

BenDover

Thanks @Fire.  Really useful info.