Can Toilets Be Moved in the First Lunar Month?
Whether toilets can be moved in the first lunar month depends on the situation: if it only involves cleaning, the sixth day of the first lunar month is preferable; if it involves dismantling or structural changes, caution is advised or it is better to avoid the first lunar month.
From the perspective of traditional customs, there is a widespread taboo of the “three no-moves” in the first lunar month, which means it is not advisable to move earth, renovate, or dismantle important facilities (such as stoves and locks) because such actions may disrupt feng shui or financial luck. Although toilets are not directly mentioned, if moving a toilet involves dismantling or significant structural changes, it may fall under similar taboos and should be approached with caution. For example, in some regions, it is believed that moving earth in the first lunar month may “disturb the earth deity” and lead to an unlucky year. Therefore, activities involving toilet structural adjustments are recommended to be avoided during the first lunar month or carried out on an auspicious day.
However, if moving a toilet only refers to cleaning work, there is special customary support. The sixth day of the first lunar month is a crucial day for “sending away poverty” in some regions, known as the “Horse Day”. According to legend, Nuwa created horses on the sixth day, symbolizing diligence. Therefore, cleaning up the dirt and filth accumulated over the year (including in toilets) and transporting the feces to the fields as fertilizer on this day is regarded as an auspicious act, symbolizing “sending away poverty and welcoming wealth”. This custom is particularly prevalent in some northern regions. If only cleaning the toilet is needed, the sixth day is a more suitable choice.
In addition, it is important to note regional custom differences. For example, it is generally taboo to take out the garbage from the first to the third day of the first lunar month, but some regions allow cleaning after the third day; the sixth day is regarded as an appropriate time for “sending away poverty” in many places. If there is a clear local custom regarding the time for “sending away poverty”, that should be followed first. If there are no special regulations, it is recommended to choose the timing based on the specific content of toilet movement (cleaning or dismantling): if only cleaning is involved, the sixth day can be chosen; if dismantling is involved, it is advisable to consult local feng shui masters or elders or choose an auspicious day after the first lunar month.
In conclusion: The feasibility of moving toilets in the first lunar month depends on the nature of the specific action. Cleaning activities can refer to the custom of “sending away poverty” on the sixth day, but they should avoid conflicts with local taboos such as “no garbage disposal”. Dismantling or structural change activities are recommended to be carried out with caution, following the “three no-moves” principle first or choosing an auspicious day outside the first lunar month to meet the traditional concepts of protecting feng shui and financial luck.
