Sanitation and Cleanliness for a Healthy Environment 13
Tippy-taps can also be made with different designs
and from different materials. Another that is
common is made from a dried calabash gourd.
Sanitary use of water for toilet hygiene
In many places people wash their bottoms with water after defecating. This anal
washing is a very effective way to stay clean. But because the water used gets
contaminated with feces, it must be disposed of carefully. Never dispose of it into a
stream or lake. Empty the container into a toilet or into a waste pit at least 20 meters
from any surface water, wells, or springs. The container must be kept clean too.
• Refill the container with wash water often. Do not let it go unwashed for more
than a day. The longer it sits, the more germs grow in and on it.
• Wash the container with soap or ashes every time before you fill it.
• The container used for anal washing should be stored away from other water
containers and away from places where food is prepared.
• Wash your hands well after the last time you touch the container — germs are
sure to be on its handle and surfaces!