Modern dual-flush toilets have become increasingly common, but many people still don’t fully understand their purpose. The two buttons on these toilets aren’t just for flushing—they’re an innovative design meant to conserve water and reduce waste. Here’s everything you need to know about how dual-flush toilets work, their benefits, and why it’s time we start using them the right way.
What Are Dual-Flush Toilets?

Dual-flush toilets feature two buttons or levers—one small and one large. Each button activates a different flush mechanism, releasing varying amounts of water depending on the type of waste. The larger button uses around 6 to 9 liters of water, ideal for flushing solid waste, while the smaller button uses just 3 to 4.5 liters, sufficient for liquid waste.
A Simple Concept with Big Impacts
The Origins of Dual-Flush Toilets

The concept was introduced by Victor Papanek, an American industrial designer, in his 1976 book Design for the Real World. The idea was first implemented in Australia in 1980, a country with a long-standing focus on water conservation due to frequent droughts.
Greek Chickpea Soup with Lemon (Revithia)
Chicken And Dumplings Dish
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Steak Recipe
Mama soaks pork chops in dreamiest sauce ever. You’ve got to try this
Grandma’s Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Bread (Tastes Like a Donut!)
Analyzing the Juicy Steak: A Deep Dive into a Culinary Delight
DIY Fabric Softener: It costs only a few cents and is much more effective than industrial fabric softeners
10 delicious freezer meal recipes to dump into the slow cooker
POUR 1 DROP OF THIS INTO THE WASHING MACHINE: SAVE MONEY ON YOUR ELECTRICITY BILL