8 Ways to Save Water
March 22 is World Water Day, which aims to bring light to the water effects of climate change—and how everyone has a role to play in using it more efficiently. With that, here are our top Toad tips for saving that precious H20.
1. Do less laundry. We've always said "Dirty is the new clean" (seriously, just check out the hang tag on our new clothes). But when it does come time to freshen up, run full loads and make sure to skip the extra rinse cycle.
2. Reuse. Water that you've boiled pasta or veggies in is a great option for hydrating your indoor and outdoor plants! You can also make a big difference by capturing water while you wait for it to heat.
3. Grow native plants. If you're looking to start a garden, we always recommend going native. Native plants are already perfectly accustomed to their environment, so they require less water than bringing in more traditional landscapes and lawns. They're low maintenance, attract birds, butterflies, and other wildlife, and promote local biodiversity.
4. Take shorter showers. Easy peasy (you can also install shower heads that are designed to conserve water). Another favorite Toad tip: Save water, shower with a friend.
5. Run full loads only. Same tip from your washing machine applies to your dishwasher. And if you don't have a dishwasher, double check that that faucet's turned off as you rinse (bonus: if you have a dual sink, fill one side with hot soapy water for washing, and one with cold, clear water for rinsing).
6. Check for leaks. A slow drip from a leaking faucet can waste as much as 20 gallons of water per day. And a leaky toilet can waste 200 gallons per day (Pro tip: put food coloring in your toilet tank. If it seeps into the bowl without flushing, you've got a leak)!
7. Cover your pool. It reduces evaporation and can cut the amount of replacement water needed by 30 - 50%.
8. Wear organic cotton. Organic cotton uses far less water than conventional cotton to grow—and it often uses "green water" (which comes from rainwater) versus "blue water" (which is pumped in from lakes, glaciers, and snow). Shop Men's and Women's organic cotton clothes.