With water scarcity constantly top of mind across South Africa, many homeowners are trying to be more mindful and curb unnecessary water wastage. Making small changes in the kitchen can help save the planet and plug the leak in your utility bill at the same time. Try these tips…
1. Go for the full load
Hold off on running the dishwasher until you have a full load of dishes. This way, you’ll be able to make the most of the electricity, water and detergent the dishwasher needs to clean your dishes.
2. Don't use water for defrosting
Avoid using water to thaw frozen foods. For the sake of water efficiency, leave your food in the fridge to defrost overnight. Alternatively, use a microwave to do the defrosting.
3. Use appropriate pot sizes
Unless you really need to, don’t be tempted to use big pots and pans. Large pots tend to require more cooking water than is necessary. To avoid needless water loss, choose your pot and pan sizes carefully.
4. Steam whenever possible
Steaming vegetables requires a lot less water and retains far more nutrients than boiling.
5. Reuse cooking water
Don’t let the greywater from boiling pasta and veggies go to waste. Instead of dumping it down the drain, why not use it to water your garden? You can even use it on vegetables and herbs, just let it cool down first.
6. Soak stubborn pots
Don’t be tempted to scrape pots and pans under running water. Soaking your pot will help lift burnt-on foods and save water.
7. Avoid rinsing dirty dishes
Stop yourself before rinsing dirty dishes. This is a waste of water - simply scrape away leftover food to save. You can then use these scraps to start or add to a compost bin.
8. Capture running water
Instead of letting precious water run down the drain, capture it in a bucket while waiting for the temperature to change. This clean water can then be used in the kitchen or outdoors.
9. Dry brush and spot clean floors
Keep your kitchen floor clean by attending to spills immediately. Instead of mopping the entire floor, clean up spills as soon as they happen. A quick sweep every now and then will also keep your floors looking clean.
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