WAYS TO USE RAIN WATER

Rain is a naturally occurring source of fresh water, but it’s scarce. Fresh water makes up only 3 percent of all water on earth, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, so it’s important to conserve it and to avoid wasting rainwater. While you should not drink rainwater, you can use it for many daily tasks, such as cleaning, watering plants and flushing toilets.

Cleaning

Mix rainwater with soap, detergent or cleaning fluid to make a liquid cleaning solution, and use that solution to wash everyday items. Because rainwater may contain atmospheric pollutants and germs, it’s likely not suitable for drinking. But it’s not necessary to use the water that comes out of your faucets to clean, especially since you normally would mix it with cleaning solution. Planet Green recommends you get in the habit of using rainwater to clean your floors, your clothing and your car.

Water Plants

Rainwater will naturally water some outdoor plants during a storm, but does not reach indoor plants or always provide outside plants with the hydration they need. When you collect rainwater, you can use it to water any of your plants, and even your lawn.

Flush Toilets 

Just as it’s unnecessary to clean your floors with clean water from the tap, you also don’t need to flush the toilet with it. Use rainwater that otherwise would be wasted to flush your waste down the toilet. Bring a bucket of rainwater into your bathroom, and after you flush, fill the tank with rainwater for the next flush. Check your local laws, however, before you begin filling your toilet tank with rainwater, some communities need a permit.

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