11 Little Ways To Save A Lot Of Water

It's like magic. Water magic. Learn more ways you can Shock the Drought.

1. Limit your showers to five minutes.

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Taking showers that last five minutes or fewer, as well as installing a low-flow showerhead, can save up to 5,500 gallons per person, per year. (Better yet, why not shower with your S.O. and save double?)

2. And turn off the water when washing your hair.

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In the time it takes you to lather, gallons of potable water are slipping down the drain. You can save up to 150 gallons a month by turning the water off while you shampoo!

3. Fix leaks as soon as you see them.

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Even tiny leaks can waste gallons of water a day, since they're dripping constantly. The average U.S. family loses 10,000 gallons per year to leaks. Get those pesky faucets fixed!

4. Turn off the faucet when brushing teeth and shaving.

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It can feel almost second nature just to leave the water running while brushing your teeth or shaving, but remembering to turn the faucet off saves up to 10 gallons per day. Make that habit second nature.

5. Install more efficient appliances!

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Start replacing appliances one by one with more efficient models! A high-efficiency toilet saves up to 19 gallons per person per day while water-efficient laundry machines and dishwashers each save gallons of water per load as well. It totally pays off in the long run, and you'll feel better about helping the Earth.

6. Wash your car with a good old-fashioned bucket and sponge.

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It still effectively cleans your car, and you get a low-impact workout! Don't forget to rinse with a hose with a self-closing nozzle. This method applies to boats and other vehicles as well!

7. Place mulch around trees and plants.

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Mulch is pretty much a garden miracle. It keeps weeds from springing up, improves the soil, AND helps reduce water evaporation by keeping the soil cool and locking in more moisture.

8. And opt for drought-resistant trees and plants.

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Planting drought- and heat-resistant trees and plants can save 60 gallons each time you water your lawn and garden. There are endless varieties of gorgeous options, including lavender, day lilies, California poppies, lilacs, and dogwood.

9. Cover swimming pools to prevent evaporation.

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If you've got a backyard pool, using a pool cover when it's not in use can save up to 40,000 gallons per year by reducing evaporation.

10. Water your lawn in the early morning or late evening.

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Watering your lawn around dawn or dusk — when temperatures are cooler — reduces the amount of water lost to evaporation, saving 25 gallons each time you water. It's also important to water deeply but less frequently. (It makes for healthier lawns.) Make sure to adjust your sprinklers so that they're not hitting the sidewalk, or your house!

11. Use a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways, patios, and sidewalks.

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Sweeping driveways, patios, and sidewalks instead of using your hose saves up to 18 gallons per minute. And like washing your car by hand, you can get a low-impact workout from this too!

All images via ThinkStock

You're a water activist trapped in the body of a normal human. So get out there and Shock the Drought.