80% Of Brits Wasting Water Regularly

80% of Brits admit to committing wasting water regularly. One in five (21%) still leaves the tap running when brushing their teeth or washing their face (20%). 

The Water Regulation Advisory Scheme (WRAS) asked consumers about their everyday water usage habits* to identify the most common offenders for water inefficiency. Using less water is not only good for the environment, it can save money too.

As the nation is basking in high temperatures, many residents might be tempted to use more water, but WRAS is urging them to be more mindful when turning the tap to avoid the chances of water restrictions and hose pipe bans. 

The wasting water habits British adults are most guilty of are:

Not reusing water when preparing food/cooking (29%) – catching excess water in a bowl to reuse can reduce water wastage by 50%

Taking deeper baths than necessary (26%) – a bath typically uses around 80 litres, but by running a bath just an inch shorter you can save five litres of water, on average

Running the water whilst brushing their teeth, rather than turning off the tap (21.4%) – a running tap wastes approximately six litres per minute

Filling the kettle up to the top rather than the amount needed (21.1%) – a full kettle (approx. 8 cups) will take twice as long to boil and use more electricity

Running water whilst washing their face, rather than filling the sink up (20.8%) – a running tap wastes approximately six litres per minute

Other bad habits people admit to include having a shower after a bath and using a hose pipe to clean the car, instead of a bucket. 

Julie Spinks, managing director of WRAS, said: “Although everyday habits - such as leaving the tap on whilst brushing your teeth - might seem inconsequential, making a few small changes can make a big difference to the amount of water we use every day. We’re urging consumers to change at least one regular habit to help prevent needless water wastage.

“Being considerate of your water usage will not only help the environment by conserving valuable water resources, but can save you money, particularly if you have a water meter.”

Visit www.waterwise.org.uk/save-water/ for top tips on how to save water.

*Survey of 2000 consumers, April 2019