Grey water, black water and fresh water

With a van or motorhome you have three kinds of water on board: fresh water for drinking and washing up, grey water from sink and shower, and black water from the toilet. Each has its own place at the service point.

Grey water

• Only empty it at service points or into the drains meant for it. Never into nature, onto the car park or into roadside drains. They often lead straight into the next stream.
• Grey water contains soap, grease and food scraps too.
• Empty the tank regularly. Otherwise it starts to smell quickly in summer.

Toilet

• Only empty the cassette at service points or at the chemical disposal point on the campsite. In the UK it's often signed as CDP or Elsan point.
• Use additives sparingly and as directed on the pack. Biodegradable products are better for treatment plants.
• Wear disposable gloves and rinse the cassette afterwards, but never at the fresh water tap.

Fresh water

• Only fill up where drinking water is signposted.
• Use a separate hose just for fresh water that has never been near the disposal point.
• Empty and refill the tank more often on the road. Standing water grows germs quickly when it's warm.
• After the trip, empty the tank and pipes and let them dry.