7 Practical Tips For Simplifying Water Usage

Simplicity & Connection Thought Leader: Kay Newton

Water is a precious resource, and conserving clean water today is more crucial than ever. Here in Mallorca Spain, the little fishing village where I live is already under severe restrictions and the summer season has not even begun. It is not until you do not have constant access do you realize its value.

Did you know that approximately two billion people around the world do not have access to safely managed drinking water? There is a critical need for water conservation and sustainable water management globally. This is no longer just a third-world issue, as climate change exaggerates we will all be affected. 

Kuel women often manage household water usage, therefore we can lead the way in making small changes, creating significant benefits for both the environment and household finances. Simplifying water usage not only helps in reducing utility bills but also contributes to a healthier planet. 

The Importance of Water Conservation:

Water scarcity is a growing global issue, by conserving water today, we can help alleviate this crisis and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come. Moreover, if we reduce water usage and use fewer chemicals in our water supply, we can promote better health and wellness. This is simplicity at its best and something we can do in our daily lives not just when water is scarce.

“Simplifying water usage not only helps in reducing utility bills but also contributes to a healthier planet.”

7 Practical Tips for Simplifying Water Usage:

Below you will find some of my daily water habits that you can also undertake. All new habits are a challenge at first. Just imagine you are on a three-week ocean voyage, on a small yacht with a small tank of potable water. It requires conscientiousness and patience to make your changes become automatic actions. But when the whole household follows suit, the savings can be dramatic.

Before you begin, check your taps and toilet to make sure you have no leaks. Then make sure everything is off and go look at the water meter, a well-maintained pipe system will mean no wasted water. Put a date into your calendar to check leakage regularly and if you are unsure, seek advice from a local professional plumber.

1. Shower Smarter:

Taking shorter showers is one of the easiest ways to conserve water. Aim for a three-minute shower or less to significantly cut down on water use. Set a timer or play a short song to keep track of time and ensure you don’t exceed your limit. 

Firstly, wet your body then turn off the tap, soap, and turn back on to rinse. Additionally, consider installing a water-saving shower head to further reduce water consumption. 

2. Mindful Teeth Brushing:

A simple yet effective way to save water is not to turn on the tap while brushing your teeth (Yes you can apply your toothpaste dry!) This small change can save up to 200 gallons of water per month. Keep a cup of water nearby if you need to rinse, and you’ll quickly see the difference in your water bill.

Using non-fluoride toothpaste or natural teeth cleaners such as bicarbonate of soda and coconut oil will also mean you can collect the grey water you spit out for watering your plants.

“Thousands have lived without love, not one without water.” – W.H. Auden

“Keep a cup of water nearby if you need to rinse, and you’ll quickly see the difference in your water bill.”

3. Collect Grey Water:

Grey water, which is used water from sinks, showers, and washing machines, can be reused for various purposes. Collect grey water in bowls placed in sinks and showers, and use it to water plants or clean floors. This practice not only conserves water but also reduces the strain on your local water treatment facilities.

Your grey water from your shower can also be used to flush toilets instead of using clean water. The secret to reusable grey water is making sure you use natural soaps.

4. Choose Natural Soaps:

Traditional soaps can contain chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Switching to natural and biodegradable soaps helps protect our waterways from pollution. Natural soaps are often better for your skin as well, making them a win-win for both you and the planet.

I love locally-made soap for numerous reasons not only am I helping the environment I am also supporting a local business to keep afloat. Use a Google search to find your nearest supplier. Chat with them, tell them what you are doing and they will recommend their best products for the job at hand.

5. Efficient Laundry Practices:

Using your washing machine’s 15-minute eco cycle is perfect for lightly soiled clothes. This cycle uses less water and energy, saving you money on utilities. Additionally, washing clothes in cold water and only doing full loads can further increase efficiency. 

Don’t forget to choose eco-friendly detergents to minimize environmental impact avoiding parabens and phosphates. I use detergent laundry sheets which come in a small cardboard pack, not only saving on plastic but also space in the cupboard.

“Use eco or short wash cycles to reduce water usage.”

6. Dishwasher Efficiency:

To maximize water and energy savings, only run your dishwasher when it’s fully stacked. Use eco or short wash cycles to reduce water usage. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to rinse dishes thoroughly before loading them into the dishwasher—most modern dishwashers are designed to handle food residue. Just scrape off the larger leftovers. 

Remember to take care of your washing machine by running a long cycle once a month to keep the pipes clean and add a cup of bicarbonate of soda and vinegar to the wash for maintenance.

7. Collect Rainwater:

Collecting rainwater is a sustainable and efficient way to supplement your water supply. Setting up a rainwater collection system is simple. Install rain barrels under downspouts to catch runoff from your roof. This collected water can be used for watering gardens, washing outdoor surfaces, and even flushing toilets. By using rainwater, you reduce your water bills and lessen the strain on local water resources, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.

What Will You Do Differently?

By adopting the simple water-saving practices mentioned above, you can make a significant impact on both your household budget and the environment. Each small change adds up, leading to substantial water conservation over time. Together, we can contribute to a healthier, more sustainable world. Remember, every drop counts!

“We never know the worth of water till the well is dry.” – Thomas Fuller

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