Our Tips to Save Water in the Summer (& All Year Round)
As the UK heats up and hosepipe bans return, it's more important than ever to think about how we use water — and how we can reuse it too. With climate change pushing temperatures higher and water shortages on the rise, we need to find ways to keep our green spaces alive, grow more of our own food, and cool our overheated cities — all while conserving our most precious resource.
It’s time to take a fresh look at what’s going down our drains.
Did You Know?
A 4-minute shower uses around 32 litres of water.
A 10-minute shower? That’s 80 litres — the same as 10 flushes of the toilet.
Growing veg or watering plants regularly? Just a few reused litres could make all the difference.
Maud has only ever used shower water for her garden and recommends it as a good job to keep the kids busy. (See the above image)
Every drop counts. So how can we make them go further?
Step One: Choose Non-Toxic Products
Before you even think about reusing your shower water, check what’s in it. Many mainstream products contain chemicals that can harm your plants and pollute our rivers when it runs off.
Swap: Shower gels, shampoos, bubble baths, laundry detergent, washing-up liquid
For: Soaps made with natural, non-toxic ingredients, epsom salts and essential oils instead of bubble bath or try soap nuts, ivy leaf detergent, or even conker soap.
Avoid products containing ingredients like: Synthetic ingredients and chemicals like perfumes/fragrance (look for “parfum”), SLS/SLES (sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate), Triclosan, Phosphates & Nonylphenol ethoxylates.
Head to our website to access our free toxic-free recipes.
Step Two: Collect Your Grey Water
Getting into the habit of collecting greywater (that’s the water from your bath, shower, or washing up) is easier than you think.
In the shower?
Stand in a bucket while the water heats up or runs. You’ll be surprised how fast it fills up- it’s a great visual reminder to use less water too!
Bath time?
Keep the plug in, and use a bucket or hose to empty it into the garden.
Washing up?
Use a washing up bowl to save water.
Leftover cups of water?
Instead of tipping them down the sink, pour them into a plant pot or save in a watering can.
Step Three: Reuse It
Water your plants
Greywater is perfect for the garden — especially from natural soaps.
Soak laundry
Add dirty clothes to your used bath water with a natural detergent for a pre-soak. Pre-soaking can help loosen stains and make the wash more effective. You can then choose an eco or shorter wash cycle on your washing machine to save water.
Flush the toilet
Pour a bucket of grey water into the toilet bowl — one flush saved.
Clean your home
Grey water could be used for cleaning the toilet, rinsing garden tools, or even wiping down patios and steps.
Water your local park
Going for a walk? Carry a bottle and water a thirsty tree or plant bed.
Linda’s top tip:
While waiting for your shower to warm up, collect the clean water in a bucket. Use it for cleaning the bathroom.
Keep up to date with tips on our instagram@sunnyjarecohub
