To celebrate World Toilet Day (19 November), WaterSafe and Waterwise are sharing a new, short video showing how to check for leaking toilets.

Up to 1 in 20 toilets leak, with some losing up to 400 litres of water a day – the same amount a three-person household uses daily.

This waste impacts household water bills and contributes to unnecessary carbon emissions from treating and delivering water.

The video, released by WaterSafe, the national register of approved plumbers, provides a straightforward method to check for leaks:

Place a square of toilet paper at the back of the toilet bowl
Leave it overnight
If it’s wet or torn by morning, the toilet is leaking and needs fixing.
Residents are urged to contact a WaterSafe-approved plumber to repair any leaks.

Julie Spinks, Director of WaterSafe, emphasises the importance of addressing this issue: “Leaky toilets are a hidden problem in many homes, but they can be easily fixed.

“By taking simple steps to check for leaks, homeowners can save money and help protect our precious water resources. We’re excited to share this video and encourage everyone to act.”

Chloe McFarland, Campaigns Manager at Waterwise said: “At Waterwise, we’re passionate about the small actions that can have a big impact when it comes to saving water.

“A leaky toilet can go unnoticed, but it is so easy to check for – and easy to fix! Catching leaks early can help you avoid unexpected costs and reduce water waste.”

Watch the video on WaterSafe’s YouTube channel or visit www.watersafe.org.uk to find out more or find a local approved plumber.

WaterSafe is a free online search facility funded by the water industry to help customers find competent and qualified plumbers, water supply pipe installers and other water services specialists in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Waterwise is a leading authority on water efficiency in the UK.