Clean water access, a vital resource, isn’t assured for a large part of the world’s population. We all bear the responsibility to reverse this situation, but how can we achieve that? What new habits could save a significant amount of water and contribute to planet conservation?

Despite the abundance of this natural resource, only 0.025% of the total corresponds to clean water. Consequently, it is a scarce commodity that currently over two million people lack access to.

In the end, changing this reality is in the hands of everyone. Progress begins by implementing changes in our daily routines, like the small water-saving tips we recommend below.

Ideas for Water Saving and Water Conservation

1. Be Mindful

When you find yourself in front of an open tap or need to use water for any activity, whether it’s bathing in a pool, a clean river, a lake, or even the ocean, remember that you are fortunate to have access to this vital resource. It’s essential to commit to using water sustainably and responsibly, using only the amount necessary for the specific task at hand.

2. Opt for Showers Over Baths

Keep in mind that taking a shower consumes 15 times less water than a bath.

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3. Close the Tap While Brushing

When brushing your teeth, shaving, soaping your hands, or washing dishes by hand, avoid leaving the tap water running. If we leave the tap on while doing these tasks, we can end up using around six liters of water. However, if we only open it when we truly need it, we’ll use less than half a liter of water! This simple action demonstrates how small changes in our habits can have a significant impact on the amount of water we consume.

4. The Toilet Isn’t a Trash Bin

Every time we flush the toilet, we use between nine and ten liters of water, sometimes just to dispose of a small piece of paper. It’s important to be aware of the amount of water used with each flush and take measures to avoid unnecessary use of this resource. By doing so, we contribute to responsible use and reduce water consumption in our daily lives. Place a trash can in the bathroom and use it!

5. Prevent Faucet Leaks

Fix all water leaks. Dripping taps can waste up to 11,000 liters of water in a year.

6. Skip Pre-Rinsing Dishes Before Using the Dishwasher

If you have the habit of pre-rinsing dishes, stop doing it. Nowadays, all washing machines can clean dishes without the need for manual pre-rinsing.

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7. Fill the Washer and Dishwasher to Capacity

Use the washer and dishwasher only when they are full, and if possible, avoid using the dryer: you’ll save water and electricity. Laundry typically accounts for 20% of our total home water consumption. Additionally, whenever possible, avoid using the pre-wash program.

8. Use Flow Reducers or Aerators on Faucets

Flow aerators are things you can put on faucets or showers to make the water flow slower. When it comes to faucets, we recommend a flow rate of eight liters per minute, and for showers, aim for ten liters per minute. Aerators are devices that mix air with the water stream, achieving 40% to 50% savings.

9. When Replacing Appliances.

Try to acquire those that are more energy-efficient and water-efficient. Although they may be more expensive initially, you’ll save water and energy, which will offset the long-term costs. 

European Union regulations grade appliance efficiency on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).

10. If You Have a Garden or Outdoor Plants to Water…

Do it at night. Watering during the day can lead to up to 30% water loss due to evaporation. Avoid automatic irrigation and be very mindful of the amount of water you use to water your plants.

These are some measures that will help us change our habits and attitudes towards daily water usage, allowing us to save water at home while caring for this essential resource. By using water more efficiently and sustainably, we not only get accustomed to responsible use but also save money.

The most important thing is that we are conscious of our role as consumers and demand effective and realistic measures, both in our communities and from our local, regional, and national governments.