Don't Flush It All Away

Toilets are responsible for about 40 percent of total indoor water use. If you have an older toilet, use a water-displacement device to reduce the amount of flow per flush. A plastic bottle filled with sand makes an easy DIY toilet modification. If you're upgrading a bathroom, invest in a high-efficiency toilet. Read Sierra Club Green Home's toilet tips to determine which water-saving model is best for you.

Plant a Water-Wise Garden

The average North American residence uses half of its water outside, so smart landscaping practices can make a big difference in household water consumption. Scale back on turf and opt for drought-tolerant, native plants. Trees, shrubs, and flowers should be suited to your region as well as to your yard's microclimates. Plants' needs vary, but a good general rule is to water deeply but less frequently. When you do water, get it from a sustainable source: rainwater harvesting barrels are attractive, easy to make, and perfect for spring's wet weather.

Turn Off the Faucet

Want to save about 3,000 gallons of water per year? It's as easy as turning off the tap when you brush your teeth or shave. Once you've got that down, look for creative ways to use less water, such as washing fruits and vegetables in a bowl instead of running the tap. You might be surprised by how many water-saving opportunities you'll find.

Wash Less, Rinse Less

Newer dishwasher models are powerful enough to get the gunk off, so save water by skipping the pre-rinse. Also, Energy Star dishwashers consume one-third less water than older machines. Try to reuse the same glass several times before washing it, and always run the dishwasher when it's full.