Scientists recommend three-minute body showers to curb water waste
Researchers say a three-minute body shower, plus two minutes for hair, is enough and can slash water use.
University of Surrey environmental scientist Pablo Pereira-Doel argues that a three-minute body shower, with an extra two minutes for shampooing, meets hygiene needs while conserving water. He points out that UK households typically shower for about 7.5 minutes, with some lasting up to 40 minutes, often for relaxation rather than cleaning. Turning off the tap while lathering can reduce a rinse to one minute, and avoiding a second shampoo can further lower consumption.
Soft-water regions see longer showers because shampoo lathers more easily, and low water pressure also extends duration. The Let’s Save Water campaign, guided by behavioural psychologist Ian Walker, targets four-minute showers and suggests real-time timers and focusing on weekend showers to achieve the government’s goal of 110 litres per person per day by 2050.
