So, I mentioned that we are allowed to use 87 litres of water a day (although that that goes down to 50 in a few days), but what exactly does that mean?

I thought I'd share with you what you can do with 87 litres, and it would be cool if some of you would try it (for a day or more if you want) and let me know how it goes. It's a great way to become aware of how much water you actually use.

So what makes up 87 litres? These are just averages so the actual amounts may differ from person to person. Of course using less is better, but here is the breakdown:

Have a 4-minute shower (40 litres). The city recommended a two minute shower though it had since been lowered to 90 seconds. It's a good idea to keep this as short as possible. You want some left over water to do laundry if needed.

Three toilet flushes (27 litres). Yes. Toilets use a lot more water than you'd think. Only flush when necessary! Feels a little awkward at first but you kinda start getting used to it.

Wash the dishes once (9 litres). This is washing them by hand. Dishwashers use a lot more than that.

Wash your hands and face once (3 litres ).

Brush your teeth twice (0.3 litres). Using a cup to rinse your mouth instead of the tap saves water.

Prepare two cooked meals (1.2 litres). Of course it depends on what you're cooking and for how many people.

Drink eight glasses of water (2 litres). Remember to add any tea, coffee, got chocolate, etc. to the amount of water you use.

Give your pet a bowl of water (1 litre).

This comes to about 84.25 litres of water per person a day.

Not much, is it?

Any unnecessary water is is not allowed and you are required to use as little as possible. The more you save, the better. If you use more than allowed, expect an extremely high water bill.

Showering between buckets is a great way to save water. That water can be used to mop and flush the toilet. Buckets can get in the way, but you do what you have to do.

If you want to use more than that you must get your water from another source such as buying bottled water, a borehole or collecting spring water. My dad and I collect spring water most days to reduce my family's consumption.