Post: Carpet cleaning wastewater can carry dirt, detergents, cleaning chemicals, bacteria, and other pollutants into storm drains if it is dumped outside or allowed to run into the street. In many areas, storm drains flow untreated directly to [local waterbody]. 

Before you start, plan where the wastewater will go. Keep wastewater contained, protect nearby storm drains, and avoid dumping or draining carpet cleaning water onto driveways, streets, gutters, ditches, or parking lots. 

Carpet cleaning wastewater should be disposed of through the sanitary sewer, such as a toilet, utility sink, or other approved sewer connection, where allowed. If sanitary sewer disposal is not available, check with [local jurisdiction / sewer utility / stormwater program] for proper disposal options. 

Small steps during carpet cleaning can help protect local waterways. 

Learn more: [insert local stormwater webpage or phone number].