Drought Friendly Home Practices for Californians

California's water shortage has hit many of us for years now. And although we might be fluent in water conservation at this point, it's always fun to hear new tips for saving resources (and money). Being a sustainable household and business has to do with so much more than having a recycling bin these days. The team at Etta + Billie is passionately committed to giving back to our community and earth - so check out some of our easy drought practices! 

It Starts in The Sink 

Washing dishes over other dishes is an age old restaurant trick that saves gallons upon gallons of water. All you have to do is stack dirty dishes below the dishes you will be getting soapy and rinsing. As you work your way through washing away food scraps from other dishes, the soapy water will cascade down below and begin the washing process before you even put the sponge to the dish - saving you time. energy, and water (most importantly). 

Start a Kitchen Compost Bin

A kitchen compost is a perfect way to collect food scraps that you would put in the garbage or flush down the garbage disposal. We highly recommend refraining from flushing water down your garbage disposal, as much as you can, but there are somethings that simply must be washed down the drain. You can have a large compost bin (with a lid!) or even a counter top compost bin. You can even take this to the next level by beginning a garden compost for your lovely plants! 

Be Conscientious in The Bathroom

If you haven't adapted the practice of refraining from letting the sink run endlessly while brushing and washing - NOW is the time to stop! It's also important to shorten the shower time, get straight to business, and even turn off the water when lathering. And sadly, we must say goodbye to baths for a little while! Lastly, while waiting for the water to reach your desired temperature, stick a bucket to catch the cold water and use that water to hydrate plants inside & outside. 

For those of you that have a yard/garden and are curious on more in depth tips, try these out: 

• Plant native and/or drought-tolerant grasses, ground covers, shrubs, and trees. Once established, plants adapted to your local climate do not need water as frequently.
• Group plants together based on similar water needs.
• Avoid purchasing recreational water toys that require a constant stream of water.
• Avoid installing ornamental water features (such as fountains) unless they use re-circulated water.
• Consider rainwater harvesting where practical.
• Position sprinklers so water lands on the lawn and shrubs and not on paved areas.

For even more education and ideas for making your home more drought sustainable, head to this page on How To Plan For A Drought.