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Clean with reusable cloth instead of paper towels

The pulp and paper industry is the third largest producer of global warming pollution in the world, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council. In comparison to paper towels, cloth is reusable, washable, and often biodegradable when it comes time to replace it. You can even use your old clothes that are too worn to donate as cloth for cleaning purposes. Mirrors and windows will be streak and lint-free when using lint-free cloth and a non-toxic, biodegradable cleaner. A cheap non-toxic formula for streak-free glass surfaces: 1 part water, 1 part distilled white vinegar, 2-5 drops dish soap. Put contents in a spray bottle and wipe.

Turn off the water when brushing your teeth or shaving

You can save up to eight gallons per day by taking this action. That’s a potential savings of almost 3,000 gallons per year!

Learn about other ways to save at the tap.

Reduce washing machine and dishwasher use by at least one load per week by washing full loads only

Washing full loads of laundry and dishes reduces the number of loads that need to be washed each week. To save even more water when washing the dishes, use the “water efficient” or “light load” mode when running the dishwasher.

Check out these other top green laundry tips.

Soak dishes instead of washing them under running water

Instead of leaving your water running while scrubbing each dish, allow your dishes to soak in your sink or a washing basin filled with hot soapy water. You can do any scrubbing required using the water in the sink, and your dishes will only need a quick rinse at the end. Also, make sure to use biodegradable, phosphate-free soap.

Thaw frozen foods in the refrigerator instead of using running water

Defrosting frozen foods with running water can waste 50 to 150 gallons of water a month. Instead, place them in the refrigerator overnight or thaw in the microwave.

Check out these other tips for saving water in the kitchen.

Reduce your shower time by 5 minutes

When showering with a 4.5 gallon per minute showerhead, you use 45 gallons of water every ten minutes. To save water, shorten your showers or turn off the water when you’re lathering up, shaving, or washing your hair. Be conscious of the time you take in the shower by using a shower clock, and try to reduce your shower by 10-20%. Click to calculate how much water and energy you use in the shower.