Wasting Drinking Water: 3 Habits to Eliminate From Your Daily Routine

Easy access to clean drinking water makes daily life more convenient, but it can also lead to unnecessary waste. As fresh water becomes an increasingly precious resource worldwide, even small changes in everyday habits can make a meaningful difference.

Here are three common habits you can change right away to help conserve water.

1. Ignoring leaky faucets
   A small drip may not seem like a big deal, but it can add up quickly. A faucet that drips once per second can waste more than 2,600 gallons of water in a year. If you notice a leak, repair it as soon as possible or contact a plumber to fix the problem.
2. Watering outdoors unnecessarily
   Using a hose to clean driveways, sidewalks, or patios sends large amounts of treated drinking water directly into the sewer system. Instead, use a broom or brush, which can often do the job just as effectively.

When watering gardens or lawns, avoid doing so during the hottest part of the day. Direct sunlight can cause water to evaporate before it reaches plant roots. Watering early in the morning or later in the evening helps plants absorb more moisture. Always be sure to follow any local watering regulations in your area.

3. Letting the water run out of habit
   Many people leave the tap running while waiting for cold water to fill a glass. Keeping a pitcher of drinking water in the refrigerator can eliminate this waste.

The same principle applies in the shower. Turning off the water while soaping up can save four to five gallons per minute. Small changes like these can significantly reduce daily water use.

Protecting drinking water does not require dramatic lifestyle changes. A few mindful habits can help preserve this essential resource for future generations.

World Water Day

Every year on March 22, the United Nations (UN) marks World Water Day to raise awareness about global water issues.

The 2026 campaign highlights the connection between access to safe drinking water and gender equality. In many parts of the world facing water shortages, women and girls are often responsible for collecting water for their families, making them particularly affected by water scarcity.

To learn more about the campaign and global water challenges, visit un.org.