Many areas of the United States are dry, arid regions, and others can experience regular or intermittent droughts when water restrictions become necessary. But even when water use isn't restricted by local governments, it's only sensible not to waste water. According to organizations such as the Utah Division of Water Resources and the Saving Water Partnership in Washington State, water conservation helps preserve resources for the future, leaves water for wildlife and helps ensure water supplies last throughout the year. It can also save you money, because you'll be using less water and less power to heat water.
Landscaping
Incorporate water-wise planting, or xeriscaping, into your yard and landscaping. Native plants and shrubs, along with ground covers such as wood chips or stone, require much less water than a traditional grass lawn. Even if you don't live in an arid part of the country, wise landscaping choices can still help you save water. Consider this tip from the Utah Division of Water Resources: "Use grass only in those areas that are used for recreation. A good rule of thumb is, 'If the only time you walk on it is to mow it, you probably don't need it.'"
If you do have a lawn or landscaping that requires watering, water in the morning or evening when temperatures are lower and when it is not windy. This helps prevent losing water to evaporation, according to Water Use It Wisely.
Outdoor Cleaning
The California Urban Water Conservation Council offers several ideas for keeping your property clean while using water wisely, noting that a garden hose can use more than 10 gallons of water each minute: Rake and collect leaves instead of hosing them away, and use a broom to sweep patios and pavement rather than rinsing them with water. Rather than washing your car with a hose, fill buckets of water for washing and rinsing, or visit a commercial carwash that recycles water.
Indoor Cleaning
Make sure you're using water efficiently indoors as well. The Water Use It Wisely website recommends running appliances like washing machines and dishwashers only when they're full--and when it comes time to replace an appliance, find a water-efficient unit. If you're washing dishes in the sink, fill a basin with clean water for rinsing instead of keeping the faucet running. Save water that you've used to rinse fruits or vegetables, and use it to water houseplants or your garden.
Personal Use
When using water for drinking, bathing and other personal care, don't leave the faucet running. Even just turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth can save 25 gallons of water each month, according to Water Use It Wisely. Install a low-flow showerhead or one with a "Navy shower" switch that allows you to stop or reduce the flow of water while you lather up or shave.
Keep a bottle of water in the refrigerator for cool drinks, so you don't have to wait for water from the tap to get cold. And if you have children, make sure to teach them these water-saving habits as early as possible. A bath with a sibling can be fun and save water at the same time.
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