> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.liminalvillage.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.liminalvillage.com/protocols/household/grey-waters.md). # Grey Waters Grey water is the wastewater from sinks, showers, and washing. At Liminal Village what goes down the drain doesn't disappear — it ends up back in our land and water bodies. Being mindful of it is part of caring for the whole water cycle (see the [Irrigation](/protocols/gardening/irrigation.md) protocol for the full system overview). ## The Golden Rule Use only biodegradable, eco-friendly soaps and detergents. This matters everywhere, and especially at the outdoor shower by the pool: the water from it ends up in our lake (see [Pool Use](/protocols/common-spaces/pool-use.md)). **Avoid sending down any drain:** * Chlorine bleach and harsh or antibacterial cleaners * Non-biodegradable detergents * Grease, oils, or fats — put them in the trash, never down the sink * Large food particles — use the compost bucket and sink strainers instead (see [Composting](/protocols/gardening/composting.md)) **Good choices:** castile soap, plant-based dish soap, biodegradable laundry detergent, and vinegar + baking soda for cleaning. If you are unsure whether a product is grey-water safe, ask the stewards before using it. ## Watch and Report Tell the stewards if you notice: * Slow-draining sinks or showers * Unusual odors from drains * Water pooling where it shouldn't * Any backup or overflow By keeping harsh chemicals out of our drains, we protect the lake, the soil, and the plants that all this water eventually reaches. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.liminalvillage.com/protocols/household/grey-waters.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.