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Turn off the faucet while brushing teeth

All Practically Green: 5,813 or so people have DONE this action so far.

All Practically Green: 75 or so people have ADDED this to their action plan so far.

Why is "Turn off the faucet while brushing teeth" green?

Turning off the water as you brush your teeth is a no-brainer. A standard faucet can use about 2 to 3 gallons of water per minute, so it saves considerable water to shut it off as you do your thing, then turn it back on to rinse. Do the math: turning off the tap saves up to 20 to 30 gallons of water per person per week. For a family of four, this can translate into over 6,000 gallons of year! That’s considerable savings—both for the environment and your wallet.

Using less water allows more to stay in the ground or in a reservoir, which helps maintain a natural balance, supports wildlife, and preserves H20 for future use. Even if you live in a place where it rains a lot, there might be a water shortage. At least 36 states expect water shortages in the next five years.

How to: Turn off the faucet while brushing teeth

It’s pretty basic: turn on the tap, wet your toothbrush, and turn it back off. Brush. Keep it off until it’s time to rinse. Oddly this is an unexpectedly difficult habit to make stick.

Practice makes perfect. Give yourself some time to build turning the water off into your tooth brushing routine. If you really can’t remember, stick a note on the mirror.

Help kids out by brushing with them to show them how it’s done.

If you’re really struggling to remember to shut off the faucet, try installing a foot pedal controlled or a motion-activated faucet.

  • MAC Automatic Faucets
    • (0 Ratings)

    If turning off the faucet while you brush is too taxing, an automatic faucet might be the answer. According to MAC, their WaterSense compliant versions can curb household water usage by 3 to 5 percent. Plus, going "hand-free" helps keep bathrooms germ-free!

  • Pedal Works Hands-Free Faucet Controller
    • (0 Ratings)

    Hospitals and restaurants use foot pedals to help keep faucet handles clean and to save time, money, and water. So why not enjoy those same perks at home? This hands-free design allows you to control the flow of your faucet with a tap of your foot. Great for bathrooms and kitchens.