There has never been a better time to save water. As concerns of drought grow, everyone can take vital water-saving measures at home and in the garden. From running a shorter washing machine cycle to using water meters, don't let your water consumption run out of control.
Need some inspiration? Take a look at the best tips you can steal below, according to the experts...
1. Turn off taps
Every individual can save more water at home in multiple ways, including by turning the tap off when brushing your teeth. In fact, this simple change can save you up to six litres of water per minute – that's roughly 48 glasses of water in just two minutes.
"While brushing our teeth, it's far too easy to become absent-minded and leave the tap running. Turning the tap off when our toothbrushes aren't under them is an easy way to save 24 litres of water a day," explains Martin Smith from Showerstoyou.co.uk.
2. Use a bowl for washing up
Using a washing up bowl in your sink can cut your usage significantly. Top tip: if you haven't got a water butt full of rain water, try saving washing up water (as long as it doesn't contain bleach) for your garden plants and flowers. It's an excellent way to keep your borders watered during the heatwave.
Martin adds: "Whilst doing the dishes, using a bowl instead of keeping the tap on can help you save water and even washing-up liquid as the water stays soapy."
3. Use a quick washing machine setting
Many washing machines offer a quick-wash cycle that uses less water. For clothes that aren't badly soiled, the quick wash cycle is fine (and is a brilliant way to save water and reduce those rising bills). As well as this, try washing clothes at 30 degrees — this will save you money while protecting fabrics, such as wool and silk, from the stress of hot water.
4. Use your water meter
For those on a water meter, saving water means saving money. Whether you live in a shared house or rent alone, you can start saving some serious money by tracking the water you use.
"Using a water meter can help you keep track of your household's water consumption as well as potentially saving money. Keeping track of the amount of water you’re using in this way can help you think about your daily habits," advises Martin.
5. Take shorter showers
A shorter shower saves both water and the energy used to heat the water. Looking to reduce your consumption? The average 10-minute shower uses around 50-75 gallons of water, but shortening this by a few minutes could save you 25 gallons. Elsewhere, avoid having baths, as they require around 75 litres when filled about a third of the way up.
6. Use your dishwasher
"Studies have shown that even inefficient dishwashers use about half as much water as handwashing. And to settle the debate no need to rinse first, rinsing first wastes 1,115 litres of water a year. Plus, it saves you time and effort."
The best scented candles to make your home smell like heaven
Country Living Marketplace Soy Wax Candle - Awaken 180ml
This hand-poured soy wax candle is scented with a blend of rose, ylang ylang, and jasmine essential oils. The calming scent reduces stress and helps you unwind.
Aromatherapy Associates De-Stress Candle
If we told you that you could calm yourself significantly after a long day just by lighting a candle, would you believe us? Aromatherapy Associate's De-Stress Candle is proof. This gorgeous candle omits a zen blend of frankincense, wild camomile and petitgrain. The effects are powerful.
Love the smell of fresh laundry? This is the candle for you. This will make your whole room smell like crisp cotton sheets. Beauty Pie members pay just £17.60 for it with the subscription service.
Fresh linen is a scent loved by all - refreshing, relaxing, and comforting. Subtle notes of powder and musk add depth, complemented by its main floral fragrance.
3 Wick Jumbo Candle - English Pear and Spices
Hand-poured right here in the UK, this stylish candle makes a lovely gift or treat for yourself. An inviting scent of English pear and spices will make you feel comforted and relaxed. Plus, a burn time of 70 hours means you'll have plenty of time to enjoy it.
Fragranced with refreshing eucalyptus and lemongrass for a rejuvenating welcome to your home. We love the pretty blue holder, which can be re-used to hold trinkets.
The White Company Wild Rhubarb Botanical Medium Candle
The White Company's range of botanical candles look as pretty as they smell with decorative fruits, herbs and woods in their bases. This rhubarb-scented candle is a gorgeous gift to give, with notes of tart rhubarb, freesia buds, plum blossom and juicy red apples.
Country Living Marketplace Bees 30cl Candle - Mandarin & Sandalwood
Handmade in Northumberland with plant wax made from rapeseed and coconut oil, this uplifting candle is sure to boost your mood. Scented with mandarin and sandalwood, this candle both smells and looks good, thanks to its bee-patterned ceramic pot.
What we love about Malin + Goetz's candle range is their unconventional approach. Rather than create standard floral fragrances, they opt for the likes of sage, otto and vetiver. Their bergamot-scented candle is our favourite to date with its citrusy, sparkling fragrance.
Country Living Marketplace Inglenook Embers - Frankincense, Amber & Cedarwood
This opulent candle has a musky, earthy and grounding scent created by a combination of frankincense, amber, and cedarwood essential oils. A brilliant choice for the colder months and the festive period.
Inspired by the spray whipped up by the North Sea, this is the perfect candle for fans of long, coastal walks. The fresh scent is refreshing and invigorating.
The fruity scents of pear and blackcurrant are just the thing for adding a burst of fragrance to your home. Bold and playful, this is a fragrance everyone will enjoy.
Know someone who just adores the scent of real roses? You'll make their day with this option from Yankee Candle. It's powerful without being overpowering.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
