We use close to 20% of indoor water in the laundry, and there are simple ways to cut down.

Tips for saving water in the laundry:

• Buy a water efficient washing machine (WaterWise rebates applies). Top loaders use 170-265 litres a load, while a front loader uses 100 litres or less.
• Only wash when you have a full load – you can save up to 10 litres a load.
• Think about your laundry habits. If you stop using your washing machine every day you can sort and wash bigger loads more efficiently when you do wash your clothes.
• Cut water consumption by choosing an efficient and/or low water setting.
• Use the suds-saver setting if your machine has this option where you have more than one load to wash - that way you save water and detergent.
• Divert final rinse water from your washing machine to your garden but don’t use on vegetable gardens.
• Consider using biodegradable, eco-friendly liquid washing detergent which is better for the garden.
• Pre-treating heavy stains before washing will reduce the chance that you’ll need to rewash clothes.
• If you are washing clothes by hand, use only as much water as you need in the sink, bucket or tub. Reuse this greywater in the garden.
• Engage a plumber to install a greywater system - this will need council approval.