10 best ways to save water in your home this summer

High summer temperatures tend to increase our water consumption. In fact, Cordoba in Southern Spain (and therefore one of the hottest parts of the country!) is one of the cities that consumes the most water in the world. See how you can save water this summer with these simple changes you can make at home.

Introduce water-saving devices into your home

These low-cost, easy-to-install devices can help us consume up to 60 per cent less water. They fit all types of taps and don’t affect the water quality. Install them in the shower, onto taps, and in toilet cisterns.

Wash your car with a bucket and sponge

The best way to save water in this way is to wash your car with rainwater and a bucket and sponge. Hand washing your car can save around 580 litres of water compared with an automated car wash.

Detect internal leaks in your home

Cracks and leaks are one of the causes of wasted drinking water. Carrying out regular checks for leaks is a good way of conserving water.

Turn the tap off when you wash your hands, face and teeth, and when you shave

You don’t need to run water when you’re brushing your teeth or shaving. Turn the tap off until you need the water to rinse your toothbrush or razor or face and hands! This advice can also be applied to washing dishes

Water your garden at night and with a watering can

If you water your garden during the sunny hours, the water will evaporate much quicker. Water your garden at night to allow the water to soak into the roots better. By using a watering can instead of a hose, you will also save water

Collect rainwater

Place receptacles on the roof of your house, in the garden or beneath the gutter. Store this water in closed containers to prevent mosquitos from getting inside as they carry dengue fever. You can use this water to water your garden or wash your car.

Reuse washing machine water

The rinse water from your washing machine can be used to clean your home

Spend less time in the shower

Baths and showers constitute 30 per cent of water consumption for the average household. The World Health Organization recommends showering for less than 5 minutes, more than enough time to carry out your daily hygiene routine.

Plant native species in your garden

In the south of Spain and in hotter locations, it’s best to plant things which have small leaves or spikes such as acacias, cacti or conifers, as they require less water.

Put on full washes for less time

Many washing machines now come with an ‘ecological wash’ setting, which uses less water and runs for less time, helping you save water – and have to spend less time doing laundry!

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