With only 1% of the earth’s water being safe for human consumption it is so important for us to conserve the amount we use. Surprising to many is how easy it actually is to limit our water consumption. You don’t need to spend thousands, or invest in any fancy contraptions to improve your water use. Below are some simple, low-cost ways from A&M’s own AgriLife Water Education Network on how we can best save water. Explore Texas AgriLife Extension’s water conservation resources and education materials!

In the Kitchen

1. only run the dishwasher with a full load.

2. scrape your dishes clean instead of rinsing them before washing.

3. use your garbage disposal sparingly.

4. place a stopper in the sink to wash pots and pans, rather than turning on faucet each time a rinse is needed.

In the Bathroom

1. when brushing your teeth, turn off the faucet until it is time to rinse.

2. install low-flow shower heads.

3. take showers instead of baths; showers with low-flow showerheads often use less water than baths.

4. use a toilet tank displacement device; these devices will reduce the volume of water in the tank but still provide enough water for flushing.

In the Laundry

1. wash only a full load when using an automatic washing machine.

2. use the lowest possible water level setting on the washing machine.

Outdoors

1. water lawns early in the morning or late at night to avoid evaporation.

2. avoid watering lawns in windy weather.

3. use drip irrigation systems for bedded plants, trees, or shrubs.

4. use a broom rather than the hose to “sweep” walks and driveways.

5. use a bucket of soapy water to wash your car and save the hose for rinsing.