save that water!

Some countries and cultures don't have running water or even drinking water. It seems like a given in our society, but we are very fortunate. So... in light of earth day coming up (and those less-fortunate), here are some water-saving tips that are good for you, your garden, your wallet and others. The less we waste, the more we will have in the future.

1. Wash fruits and veggies in a container of water. Use it to water plants.

2. When you rinse out the coffee pot, use the water in your compost bin or on garden. It will have minerals from inside the pot.

3. Stop excess ice from being made by lifting that wire guide inside ice maker.

4. It takes less scrubbing to clean residue from pots and pans if you clean then right away, before food dries.

5. If you have to scrub, don't waste water (and energy) scrubbing pots under running water. Fill them, let them soak, then wash. For tough stuck-on food, add water and a little soap, then bring to a simmer on the stove.

6. Don't keep adding glasses to the dishwasher every time you get a drink. Designate a daily drinking glass and don't wash until the end of the day.

7. Don't cool hot items, such as hard-boiled eggs, under running water. Put them in a bowl of water to cool. Use water in garden, too!

8. Don't pour cooking water down the drain! Either save it for soup later in the week, or water your plants and flowers. There are tons of minerals in there.

9. Put a lid on it. Heating a pot of water without a lid takes longer, and it releases heat that makes your air conditioner have to work harder, too.