Did you know that the average American uses up to 100 gallons of water every day at home? That’s right!

What if that water wasn’t available? What if we were under strict water rationing?

Scary, isn’t it? Well, I know that that scenario is a bit extreme but if we all don’t practice some smart water conservation techniques, it could become a reality at some point of time. Water conservation does not mean giving up your bath or washing your clothes once a month. It means being smart and sensible about using water in your everyday life. Remember, every single drop counts.

Here are some simple water conservation techniques for the average householder, followed by ways to use grey water:

Turn off the Tap

You’ll be surprised at the number of people who leave the tap running while they brush their teeth, shave or do the dishes. So, go ahead and pay attention when you start brushing your teeth tomorrow and turn off that tap.

Ditch the Shower and the Hose

Yes, I know I said you don’t have to give up bathing but you can ditch the shower. According to EarthEasy.com, showering longer than 5 minutes wastes 5 to 10 gallons of water. So, either install low-flow showerheads or start using a bucket and pail.

Similarly, using a hose to wash the car, drive, patio or yard can waste hundreds of gallons on a weekly basis. Instead, use a bucket and a broom for the drive and yard or a bucket and sponge for the car and save gallons of water each week.

Fix the Faucet

Leaky faucets and dripping toilets are not just a nuisance but a big source of water wastage. Get them fixed right away. The U.S Geological Survey states that a constantly leaking toilet wastes up to 22 gallons of water every day!

Teach Kids About Water Conservation

Kids can be great about saving water. So, start early and teach them simple but effective ways of saving every drop. Show them how to turn the faucet tightly enough so that it is easy to open but doesn’t drip. Encourage them to use water wisely when taking a bath or brushing their teeth. Schedule water play during the summer months for only once a fortnight. Read to them about water conservation and let them come up with ways to save water. The Water Use It Wisely website has lots of fun games, resources and lesson plans to help you teach kids about conserving water.

Using Grey Water

Now that you’ve started saving water and conserving it, what do you do with all that grey water. Grey water is basically waste water from your home, excluding the toilets. According to Lets Go Green.com , “Typically, 50-80% of household wastewater is greywater from kitchen sinks, dishwashers, bathroom sinks, tubs and showers.”

How do you use grey water to maximize your water conservation efforts?

Here are some ways to do this safely and easily:

1. Use grey water to water your plant collection. Both indoor and outdoor plants can easily be watered using this household waste water. However, don’t use kitchen grey water in the garden since this type of grey water contains more harmful micro-organisms than other type of grey water and can damage both the plant and the irrigation systems.

2. Use it to flush toilets. Collect grey water in a bucket while you’re showering or scoop it out from your bathtub once you’re done and pour it down a toilet. No need to flush and a clean toilet too!

Conserving water and reusing grey water is not only eco-friendly but also easy on the wallet. So, go ahead and make these small changes that add up to a big difference.

Photo Credit: Even Normann