As Water Saving Week 2025 approaches, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how small changes at home can make a big difference for the planet and our communities. This year’s theme, “Become a Water Saving Hero,” highlights the power of everyday actions to conserve one of our most precious resources. Here are five easy ways to save water that anyone can start today.
Start by making every wash count. When it comes to laundry, wait until you have a full load before running the washing machine. This simple habit reduces the number of cycles you run each week, saving both water and energy. If you need to wash a smaller load, many modern machines have eco or half-load settings-use them to cut down on unnecessary water use.
Next, become a tap guardian by turning off the tap when you’re not actively using it. Whether you’re brushing your teeth, washing your face, or scrubbing dishes, leaving the tap running can waste up to six litres of water per minute. Instead, only turn the tap on when you need to rinse, and consider filling a bowl for washing vegetables or dishes rather than letting water flow down the drain.
Showers are another area where small changes add up. Try trimming just one minute off your daily shower-this can save up to 12 litres of water each time. If you’re feeling ambitious, aim for a four-minute shower and challenge your household to do the same. Not only will you save water, but you’ll also reduce the energy used to heat it, lowering your carbon footprint.
Dishwashers can be surprisingly efficient, but only when used wisely. Always wait until your dishwasher is full before running it, and skip the pre-rinse-most modern machines are designed to handle a bit of grime. By making sure each cycle is maximised, you’ll save thousands of litres of water over the course of a year.
Finally, become a leak buster by checking your home for drips and leaks. A leaky tap or toilet can waste hundreds of litres of water a day without you even noticing. Regularly inspect under sinks, around toilets, and behind appliances for any signs of leaks, and fix them promptly. Many water companies offer free leak detection kits, making it even easier to spot and resolve issues early.
Water Saving Week is about more than just individual actions-it’s a collective effort that helps protect our rivers, support essential community services, and safeguard the environment for future generations. By adopting these five easy habits, you’ll not only save water but also inspire others to become water saving heroes alongside you.