The holidays bring cozy gatherings, sparkling lights, and plenty of home cooking, making it the perfect time to celebrate the season with simple water-wise habits that make a real difference. From party prep to clean up, these small steps help keep your festivities merry and bright.
To support your celebrations, Roseville's Environmental Utilities has helpful and handy tips to make every holiday moment a little more water-wise.
- Give your sprinklers a holiday: Turn off your sprinklers this winter season. Just remember to water your trees if the weather stays dry.
- Fill 'er up: Expecting guests? Save time and water by using the dishwasher instead of hand-washing dishes. Wash full loads in your clothes washer, too.
- Soak then scrub: If some pots and dishes need hand-washing, soak them first to loosen food. Fill one basin with wash water and the other with rinse water to avoid running the tap.
- Compost rather than trash: If the green beans, sweet potatoes, or leftover sides were not a hit, place them in your organics recycling along with egg shells, banana peels, coffee grounds, and other food scraps. They will break down into nutrient-rich compost that helps soil hold moisture.
- Pitcher perfect: Place a pitcher of water on the table and let guests serve themselves. Any leftover water can go right to your houseplants.
- Sing in the shower: Hosting overnight guests? Create a five-minute playlist of holiday tunes to keep showers short. Frosty the Snowman, Jingle Bell Rock, and Winter Wonderland are all perfect five-minute guides.
- Avoid dishpan hands: Let the dishwasher take care of the clean up. You will save water and have more time to relax with friends and family.
- Scrape the plates: After big holiday meals, scrape leftover food into the green waste bin instead of using the garbage disposal.
- Give the gift of water efficiency: High-efficiency showerheads, WaterSense-labeled fixtures, weather-based sprinkler timers, or a shiny new commode make thoughtful and practical gifts. Many water providers offer rebates to help with these upgrades.
Find more holiday tips and rebate information at
Roseville.ca.us/rebates,
BeWaterSmart.info and
SaveOurWater.com