Yes, you can save money in the bathroom! Make a few upgrades. Change a few habits. You’ll see money in your pocket when the next utility bills come in. Not only does it help your wallet, but it also benefits the environment. So let’s look at a few creative solutions for reducing water and energy use. There’s no need to compromise comfort or style. With a mix of DIY projects, small investments, and smart choices, you’ll see savings trickle in before you know it.
Install a Low-Flow Showerhead
Let’s start with the most straightforward fix: the showerhead. Swapping out your traditional showerhead for a low-flow model can save gallons of water per shower. Most low-flow showerheads use about 2 gallons per minute (GPM) or less, compared to older models that can use up to 5 GPM. This means that in a 10-minute shower, you could save around 30 gallons of water!
Where to Buy: You can find a variety of affordable low-flow showerheads on Amazon and at Home Depot. Models like the High Sierra 1.5 GPM Showerhead come highly recommended.
DIY Tip: Installation is easy! Just unscrew the old showerhead, wrap plumber’s tape around the threads, and screw the new one on. No plumber is needed for this upgrade!
Switch to LED Lighting
Lighting might not seem like a big factor in your bathroom’s energy usage, but those minutes add up if you have several lights on every morning and evening. LED lights use a fraction of the energy compared to incandescent or even CFL bulbs and have a much longer lifespan.
Where to Buy: Look for energy-efficient LED bulbs in warm or daylight hues at Walmart or Lowe’s. Phillips and GE have popular models that fit standard bathroom fixtures.
DIY Tip: Look for dimmable LEDs and install a dimmer switch for maximum savings. This lets you control brightness based on your needs. It’s perfect for early morning routines or winding down at night.
Fix Leaky Faucets
Did you know a faucet leaking just one drop per second wastes more than 3,000 gallons a year? Fixing a leaky faucet is a quick way to save water, and the solution is often as simple as replacing a worn-out washer or O-ring.
Where to Buy: Grab a faucet repair kit at Ace Hardware or Home Depot. These kits usually come with all the washers and O-rings you need, plus instructions.
DIY Tip: Most faucets can be fixed without calling a plumber. Just shut off the water supply, unscrew the faucet handle, and replace the faulty part. If you’re unsure, plenty of YouTube tutorials can guide you through specific repairs based on your faucet model.
Add a Dual-Flush Toilet Conversion Kit
Toilets account for about 30% of the average home’s water usage, so upgrading to a dual-flush system can make a big difference. A dual-flush toilet offers a “light” flush for liquids and a “full” flush for solids, cutting down on water waste. If you’re not ready to replace your entire toilet, a dual-flush conversion kit is a more affordable alternative.
Where to Buy: Look for dual-flush conversion kits on Amazon or Home Depot. The Fluidmaster and Next by Danco kits are popular, easy-to-install options.
DIY Tip: Most conversion kits can be installed in under an hour without special tools. Just follow their instructions, and you’ll have a dual-flush toilet ready to save you water—and money.
Invest in a Water Heater Timer
If you’re using a traditional water heater, you’re paying to keep water hot all day—even when no one uses it. Installing a water heater timer allows you to set specific hours for heating. This way, it only works when you need it most.
Where to Buy: Water heater timers can be found at Lowe’s and Home Depot. They come in a variety of models suitable for gas or electric heaters.
DIY Tip: Set the timer to start heating about an hour before your usual shower time, then turn it off at night or during work hours when no one is home. Installation may require more electrical know-how, so if you’re uncomfortable, call an electrician.
Use Smart Power Strips for Electric Outlets
Electric razors, toothbrushes, and hair dryers contribute to bathroom energy usage. A smart power strip can help control these devices, especially if they stay plugged in all the time. Smart strips automatically cut power to devices that go into standby mode. This way, you’re not paying for energy you aren’t using.
Where to Buy: Smart power strips are available on Amazon. Brands like Kasa and BN-LINK offer reliable options.
DIY Tip: Plug all your regularly used devices into the same strip for convenience. Then, place it in an accessible area where you can easily turn everything off when it’s not in use.
DIY Weatherstripping for Windows
If your bathroom has a window, you might lose heat (or cool air) through small cracks or gaps. This forces your heater or air conditioner to work harder. Sealing these areas with weatherstripping can reduce energy waste and make the bathroom feel cozier.
Where to Buy: Pick up weatherstripping tape from Ace Hardware or Lowe’s.
DIY Tip: Clean the window frame first, then press the tape along the edges where drafts come in. This easy fix is especially helpful during colder months, keeping your bathroom warmer and more comfortable.
Unplug Unused Items to Save Energy and Money
While it might seem insignificant, unplugging items you’re not actively using can reduce your energy bill. Many bathroom gadgets, like electric razors, hair dryers, and toothbrush chargers, continue drawing energy even when they’re off but still plugged in. This phenomenon is called “phantom” or “vampire” power. It can quietly add a few extra dollars to your bill every month. By simply unplugging these items when you’re done, you stop this wasteful trickle of electricity.
Where to Buy: Smart power strips with timers or switches can be found on Amazon or Best Buy. These can help eliminate phantom power without the hassle of unplugging each item individually.
DIY Tip: If unplugging each time feels tedious, plug all your bathroom devices into a smart power strip. This way, you can simply turn off the power strip when you’re done and save energy with one easy switch.
Small Changes for Big Savings
While it may seem like a lot of small steps, each of these changes adds up over time. With a few quick DIYs, product upgrades, and mindful habits, you’ll notice a difference in your utility bills and your bathroom’s functionality.