Are you having a bunch of houseguests over the holidays or hosting a big party or dinner? Sacramento Suburban Water District (SSWD) has ideas on how you can have a fun and water-efficient h2oliday season.

1. Spread the word about using water wisely by posting a little note on the mirror in the guest bathroom reminding your guests to turn off the water when brushing their teeth or shaving, to limit their showers to five minutes or less, and to collect shower water in a bucket as it warms. SSWD has free buckets and shower timers available at their office.
2. Save water and energy by letting your frozen food thaw in the microwave or overnight in the fridge, instead of running hot water over it.
3. Wash fruits and vegetables in a small pan instead of rinsing under running water.
4. After the big meal scrape the plates into the trash instead of using the sink’s garbage disposal. And if you want to really make a difference, compost the vegetable waste and use the compost in your yard.
5. A full household means extra laundry and dishes. Remember to run your clothes washer or dishwasher only when full.
6. Water your poinsettias, Christmas tree and potted plants with shower water or water from the drinking glasses.
7. If you’re using the good china or silverware that requires hand washing, fill one basin with soapy water and the other with rinse water.
8. And if you’re searching for holiday gifts make sure to look for WaterSense-labeled products.  They are certified to use less water and work as well or better than similar appliances and fixtures.

You can find WaterSense certified washing machines, dishwashers, toilets, showerheads, faucets and sprinkler controllers online or at your local hardware or appliance store and online.  There are even rebates available for WaterSense-labeled weather-based sprinkler controllers from SSWD.

Happy H2olidays from SSWD!