Toilets and hygiene
Nobody plans for this one. Then the water stops.
If the water is off but the drains work
- Flush with a bucket of grey water poured straight into the bowl.
- If it is yellow, let it mellow. You know the rest.
If the drains are out too
- Line the toilet bowl or a sturdy bucket with a strong bag.
- Cover each use with cat litter, sawdust or soil.
- Tie it, double bag it, store it outside until waste collection returns.
Staying clean
- Hand washing matters more than ever. Soap and a little water beat nothing.
- Hand gel when water is tight.
- Wet wipes for a wash. Bag them, never flush them.
- Stock period products and nappies if your household uses them.
More from official sources
Updated 9 October 2026.