Water-Saving Hacks: 19 Tips To Save Water During A Drought

Why Spain Still Faces Water Stress Despite the End of Catalonia’s Drought Emergency

Although Spain experienced one of the most severe drought periods in decades between 2021 and early 2024, 2025 has brought a very different picture. Heavy rainfall, repeated storm systems and several flooding episodes helped reservoirs across much of the country recover significantly. In Catalonia — the region that endured the longest and harshest shortages — the “historic drought” officially ended in spring 2025 when the Ter–Llobregat system rose to around 60–64% capacity, allowing authorities to lift emergency measures and ease household restrictions.

However, while the acute crisis subsided, Spain remains one of Europe’s most water-stressed countries. Climate change is creating larger swings between drought and flooding, more pressure on surface water, and reduced reliability of rainfall. Regions such as the Segura basin and parts of southern and southeastern Spain are still dealing with structural water scarcity, over-extraction and high agricultural demand.

For households, this means water conservation is no longer just a temporary drought-response measure — it is a sensible, long-term practice that helps reduce water waste, cut costs and build resilience in a climate where extreme dry periods are expected to return.

How You Can Help: 19 Practical Ways to Save Water During a Drought

Water conservation doesn’t require radical lifestyle changes. Often, it’s a combination of small changes and simple tips that produce the biggest impact. The following 19 water-saving tips are practical, affordable, and suitable for households across Spain — whether you live in a large city or a small coastal village.

1. Fix leaks immediately

One dripping tap or leaky loo can waste thousands of litres of water each year. Check under sinks, around toilets and appliances. Fixing leaks promptly is the easiest way to avoid unnecessary water waste.

2. Install low-flow appliances

Low-flow showerheads, taps and aerators reduce flow rate without compromising comfort. These water-efficient options can dramatically lower household water use and help shrink your water footprint.

3. Shorten your showers

Short showers save both water and energy. Even trimming shower time makes a big difference, especially when hot water is involved.

4. Collect cold shower water

Use a bowl or bucket to catch cold water while waiting for the shower to heat. This clean water can be reused for plants, flushing the toilet or rinsing vegetables.

5. Turn off the tap when not needed

Running water while brushing your teeth or shaving leads to unnecessary water waste. Turning off the tap can help you save more water than you realise.

6. Run dishwashers and washing machines only when full

Use your dishwasher or washing machine with a full load to use less water and improve water and energy efficiency.

7. Sweep outdoor areas instead of hosing

Avoid wasting water by using a broom rather than a hose. Hoses use huge amounts of water in minutes.

8. Use a pool cover

Pool covers dramatically reduce evaporation. They help save water and keep your pool cleaner, which can also reduce energy bills.

9. Water plants at optimal times

Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation and help soil retain moisture for longer.

10. Use drought-resistant landscaping

Drought-resistant plants and mulch require less water and lower the long-term water footprint of your garden. Healthy soil means less watering.

11. Wash your car responsibly

Use a bucket instead of running water continuously. Commercial car washes that recycle water are often the most efficient choice.

12. Keep drinking water in the fridge

Instead of running the tap until cold water appears, store drinking water in the fridge. This reduces running-tap waste.

13. Install a rainwater collection system

Use a water butt to store rainwater and reduce reliance on mains water for gardens and cleaning tasks. Even in wet years, storing rainwater is a smart way to prepare for future drought cycles.

14. Check for water-saving incentives

Water companies sometimes offer rebates for installing water-efficient appliances or adopting water-saving technologies that reduce your water bills.

15. Mist indoor plants instead of pouring

Most houseplants prefer humidity over heavy watering. A spray bottle uses less water and avoids unnecessary waste.

16. Choose water-efficient appliances

When replacing appliances, choose water-efficient options with lower water usage. Modern dishwashers, toilets and washing machines use significantly less water and energy.

17. Flush only when necessary

Flushing can use several litres of water in one go. Minimising flush frequency helps you save water without affecting hygiene.

18. Wash dishes efficiently

Use a washing-up bowl or fill the sink instead of letting running water flow continuously. This uses far less water than washing under a running tap.

19. Repair drips as soon as they appear

Small leaks turn into large problems. Regularly inspect taps, pipes and garden hoses to avoid wasting water unnecessarily.

Final Thoughts

Although Catalonia’s drought emergency ended in 2025 after reservoir recovery, Spain remains highly vulnerable to water scarcity. Climate variability, heatwaves, population growth and intense agricultural demand all contribute to long-term pressure on water resources. Reducing household water waste, lowering water usage, and being conscious of how much water we consume helps protect shared supplies and also lowers energy use and water bills.

By adopting ways to save water today, households become more resilient and help Spain prepare for the next inevitable dry period. Every litre saved genuinely matters.

Stay Protected While Living in Spain

Extreme weather — from droughts to floods — is becoming more common across Spain. Reliable private health insurance ensures you have access to fast, quality care when you need it most. Compare Sanitas health insurance plans and choose the protection that fits your lifestyle.