Domestic dishwashers. Use 22-35 litres of water per wash – full or not. Use a dishwasher that is energy efficient as this saves water and electricity. Machines with an ‘A’ rating sign are the most economical.

"The average family uses 26,000 litres of water a year just on laundry"

But remember - half-load programmes on dishwashers and washing machines still use more than half the water and energy of a full load. Wait until you have a full load before switching the machine on.

"An average washing machine uses 120 litres of water in a standard cycle"

Try to avoid rinsing dishes in the sink before loading them into the dishwasher.
Don’t waste water on half-empty loads save up your washing until you have enough to fill the machine.

Try hand washing woollen items – it does just as good a job as machine washing and saves several litres of water.

Use the minimum amount of water needed to boil water in saucepans and kettles. You’ll save energy as well as water.

Don't wash vegetables and fruit under a running tap. Fill a bowl with water and use that.
Use the leftover water from washing and boiling vegetables to water plants.

Always try to use the plug and don't let the tap run when you're washing your hands or washing up. Better still – use a washing up bowl in the sink.

Try keeping a bottle or jug of water in the fridge, instead of leaving the tap running while it gets cool.