Environmental scientists are advocating for significantly shorter shower times, recommending a three-minute limit for body-only showers as a measure to conserve water. Dr. Pablo Pereira-Doel, an environmental scientist at the University of Surrey, suggests that two additional minutes may be needed if hair washing is included. This recommendation aims to address growing concerns about water scarcity, with predictions of a substantial water shortfall in England by 2055.
Experts propose that a total shower time of four to five minutes should be the target to effectively reduce water consumption. Current average shower times in the UK are around 7.5 minutes, according to Dr. Pereira-Doel, though studies indicate many showers regularly exceed 10 minutes, with some lasting up to 40 minutes. The extended duration is often attributed to reasons beyond basic hygiene, such as relaxation, self-care, or warming up, rather than a conscious decision about cleaning needs.
Several factors can influence shower length. People in areas with soft water tend to shower longer because shampoo lathers more easily, creating a more pleasant experience that encourages lingering. Morning showers are typically shorter due to time constraints, while evening or weekend showers often allow for less time pressure. Additionally, low water pressure can lead individuals to stay in the shower longer in an attempt to feel adequately rinsed.
To combat potential water shortages, experts emphasize the effectiveness of changing daily habits over relying solely on water-saving devices. Dr. Pereira-Doel identifies shampooing only once as a straightforward and impactful change, noting that most individuals who shampoo twice do so out of habit rather than necessity. Using less product is also advised, as excess product creates more lather, requiring more water for rinsing. The use of in-shower timers is suggested as a tool to provide real-time feedback and help reduce shower duration.
Professor Ian Walker, an environmental psychologist at Swansea University and advisor for the Let's Save Water campaign, supports the goal of reducing shower times to four minutes or less. His research, involving the measurement of 70,000 showers, found average times to be longer than this target. He highlights the significant variation in individual showering routines, often performed on autopilot, leading to differences in practice without awareness of what is considered normal. He suggests that discussing these habits more openly could be beneficial.
Water usage from showers can be substantial, with typical consumption ranging from six to 15 liters per minute. For an average shower duration, this can amount to approximately 100 liters of water. This figure is significant when considering the government's objective to reduce daily water consumption to 110 liters per person by 2050. Studies have shown that installing shower timers can decrease water usage time by as much as 26 percent, demonstrating the potential impact of behavioral changes.
