We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

Don't let your water consumption run out of control

There has never been a better time to save water. As concerns of drought grow, everyone can take vital water-saving measures at home and in the garden. From running a shorter washing machine cycle to using water meters, don't let your water consumption run out of control.

Need some inspiration? Take a look at the best tips you can steal below, according to the experts...

Every individual can save more water at home in multiple ways, including by turning the tap off when brushing your teeth. In fact, this simple change can save you up to six litres of water per minute – that's roughly 48 glasses of water in just two minutes.

"While brushing our teeth, it's far too easy to become absent-minded and leave the tap running. Turning the tap off when our toothbrushes aren't under them is an easy way to save 24 litres of water a day," explains Martin Smith from Showerstoyou.co.uk.

Using a washing up bowl in your sink can cut your usage significantly. Top tip: if you haven't got a water butt full of rain water, try saving washing up water (as long as it doesn't contain bleach) for your garden plants and flowers. It's an excellent way to keep your borders watered during the heatwave.

Martin adds: "Whilst doing the dishes, using a bowl instead of keeping the tap on can help you save water and even washing-up liquid as the water stays soapy."

Many washing machines offer a quick-wash cycle that uses less water. For clothes that aren't badly soiled, the quick wash cycle is fine (and is a brilliant way to save water and reduce those rising bills). As well as this, try washing clothes at 30 degrees — this will save you money while protecting fabrics, such as wool and silk, from the stress of hot water.

For those on a water meter, saving water means saving money. Whether you live in a shared house or rent alone, you can start saving some serious money by tracking the water you use.

"Using a water meter can help you keep track of your household's water consumption as well as potentially saving money. Keeping track of the amount of water you’re using in this way can help you think about your daily habits," advises Martin.

A shorter shower saves both water and the energy used to heat the water. Looking to reduce your consumption? The average 10-minute shower uses around 50-75 gallons of water, but shortening this by a few minutes could save you 25 gallons. Elsewhere, avoid having baths, as they require around 75 litres when filled about a third of the way up.

"Studies have shown that even inefficient dishwashers use about half as much water as handwashing. And to settle the debate no need to rinse first, rinsing first wastes 1,115 litres of water a year. Plus, it saves you time and effort."

We love Aldi's whole range of scented candles. Not are they super budget friendly but they also burn well and are long-lasting. Honey & Nectarine would be our choice for spring-summer, moving onto Pomegranate for the colder months. 

If we told you that you could calm yourself significantly after a long day just by lighting a candle, would you believe us? Aromathery Associate's De-Stress Candle is proof. This gorgeous candle omits a zen-ing blend of frankincense, wild camomile and petitgrain and the effects are powerful. 

Know someone who just adores the scent of real roses? You'll make their day with this Fresh Cut Roses candle by Yankee Candle. It's powerful without being overpowering and smells pretty close to real-deal roses. 

This Molton Brown candle creates a warming glow through the amber glass when burning. The scent manages to balance citrus notes with deep notes of bergamot, neroli, and musk. A great autumn option, it will scent your whole space beautifully. 

Love the smell of fresh laundry? This candle's for you. Beauty Pie's Clean House scented candle will make your whole room smell like crisp cotton sheets. Beauty Pie members pay just £17.60 for it with the subscription service.  

The White Company's range of Botanical Candles look as pretty as they smell with decorative fruits, herbs and woods in their bases. The Wild Rhubarb is a gorgeous gift to give at the start of autumn with its notes of tart rhubarb, freesia buds, plum blossom and juicy red apples.

What we love about Malin + Goetz's candle range is their unconventional approach. Rather than create standard floral fragrances, they opt for the likes of sage, otto and vetiver. The new Bergamot is our favourite to date with its citrusy, sparkling fragrance. 

This Oliver Bonas candle is gorgeous in a kitchen as it's fresh and powerful enough to scent the room, even when cooking's going on. The range also comes in Orange & Amber as well as Pomegranate & Patchouli.

The most iconic of Diptyque's candles, Baies blends tangy blackberries with spicy, floral notes of rose and it's a scent that works all year round.