Water might seem like an endless resource in the rainy UK, but don’t let those grey clouds fool you. The UK is facing increasing pressure on its water supply. Add to that the recent leap in water charges, and it’s a great idea to save water wherever you can.
Turning off the tap while brushing your teeth and fixing leaky taps are obvious water-saving tactics, but there are some less obvious, more novel ways to reduce your water footprint - many of which are easy, affordable, and even a bit fun.
Install a shower timer – with a twist
We've all heard about timing our showers, but why not make it a game? Invest in a timer that plays music for a limited time (say, 4 minutes). When the music stops, so should your shower.
Harvest rainwater – stylishly
Forget bulky water butts. Today’s rainwater harvesters are sleek, space-saving, and come in designs that look more like modern planters than plumbing equipment. If aesthetics mean a lot to you, go for options that blend beautifully into your garden.
Switch to water-smart tech appliances
Energy-efficient dishwashers and washing machines are becoming more mainstream - but some models go the extra mile. Look for eco-cycle settings and machines with automatic load sensing. Brands like Bosch and Miele have models that use less than 7 litres per cycle!
Get creative with grey water
Grey water (used water from baths, sinks, etc.) can be reused for flushing toilets or watering plants. While full grey water systems can be expensive, there are budget-friendly options like bathwater siphon pumps or portable grey water diverters that let you redirect used water for gardening.
Ditch the hose and say “hello” to the olla
An olla is a porous clay pot that you bury in your soil. Simply fill it with water, and it will slowly release moisture directly to the roots where it's needed most. They’ve been used for centuries in dry climates—and they’re catching on in the UK among permaculture and allotment enthusiasts.
Choose native plants
Native plants like foxgloves, primroses, and heather are adapted to the UK’s climate and require less watering. Plus, they support local wildlife.
Catch the cold
Instead of letting the tap run while you wait for the water to warm up, catch that clean, cold water and use it to fill the kettle, water houseplants, or rinse vegetables.
Don’t forget the basics
While dripping taps aren’t exciting, they do waste a huge amount of water; if you notice the washing bowl filling up by itself, or you have a constant drip, contact a local plumber and get it fixed.
Small actions really do add up. If every UK household made just a few of these changes, we could collectively save billions of litres of water every year. Whether you’re sprucing up your garden, upgrading your appliances, or just trying to shorten your shower songs - know that you’re helping to secure a sustainable water future for the UK.
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