3 ms·

I keep a lotion bottle next to my toilet. Not only is lotion cheap, it's lubricating as it cleans, so it helps make the next wipe cleaner than just using a wet

I keep a lotion bottle next to my toilet. Not only is lotion cheap, it's lubricating as it cleans, so it helps make the next wipe cleaner than just using a wet wipe! Lotion ftw. I visited Japan, they had so many awesome toilets, I had to take videos and photos of all the crazy versions and options in restaurants, public, at home etc... they are awesome. Also, the standard toilet conserves water by adding a small hand washing sink to the top of the tank, brilliant! Google this, as it's so common sense, I can't understand why it hasn't spread wider. This kind of toilet allows for a tiny extra bathroom, without the need of a sink, and it's still sanitary.

jpollock 9y ago
The problem with the sink in the top is that the soap encourages algal growth in the tank. It's the same reason you shouldn't use grey water to flush.
- RobertRoberts 9y ago
  That's interesting, but doesn't algae need light to grow? The tanks are solid porcelain. Even our fish tank, if not near a window won't grow algae, move it near a window and 2 days later it's turning green. Also, I looked in the tank, and it was spotless. I think any concerns of growth of anything in the tank are far outweighed by the water savings. I'd guess millions of gallons a year across Japan with just this one feature.
  - Pica_soO 9y ago
    No, some algae does not- they only need a source of energy (carbonhydrates). Google heterotrophe for more Info. PS: That is why algae can grow in sewers.
    - RobertRoberts 9y ago
      Well, I guess maybe in Japan that is of little concern, as it's a common toilet design. lol, I googled "heterotrophe in toilet tank from soap" and your comment came up. :P I did some searching, I simply can't see any problems with this. Worst case it seems you have to clean your tank. Besides, doesn't the water and soap from your sink end up in the sewer anyway? Just not seeing the problem.

jpollock 9y ago

The problem with the sink in the top is that the soap encourages algal growth in the tank. It's the same reason you shouldn't use grey water to flush.

RobertRoberts 9y ago
That's interesting, but doesn't algae need light to grow? The tanks are solid porcelain. Even our fish tank, if not near a window won't grow algae, move it near a window and 2 days later it's turning green. Also, I looked in the tank, and it was spotless. I think any concerns of growth of anything in the tank are far outweighed by the water savings. I'd guess millions of gallons a year across Japan with just this one feature.
- Pica_soO 9y ago
  No, some algae does not- they only need a source of energy (carbonhydrates). Google heterotrophe for more Info. PS: That is why algae can grow in sewers.
  - RobertRoberts 9y ago
    Well, I guess maybe in Japan that is of little concern, as it's a common toilet design. lol, I googled "heterotrophe in toilet tank from soap" and your comment came up. :P I did some searching, I simply can't see any problems with this. Worst case it seems you have to clean your tank. Besides, doesn't the water and soap from your sink end up in the sewer anyway? Just not seeing the problem.