by Anonymouse

Created on: September 11, 2008   Last Updated: October 23, 2008

The need for people to live green is constantly increasing; the average person wastes over ten gallons of water in the shower alone! That's no way to go about conserving our resources. Those who embrace the green lifestyle begin every day with a conservative morning routine, with the goal of wasting as little as possible while still fulfilling their basic needs.

While taking showers uses much less water than taking baths, it still uses too much. Simple ways to conserve are to get undressed and hop in the tub before running the water and limit shower time to five minutes per person. It also helps to shower with someone else if possible. Installing a low-flow shower head (quick fix: open the valve) will also greatly reduce water waste. To make the green shower experience complete, make sure not to use disposable razors, and try not to shave with the water running.

Hair care products are also brimming with toxins. Chemicals in them have caused everything from disease to blindness! Baking soda cleans hair better than most shampoos without leaving any residue. Once out of the shower, another way to green up in the morning is to go natural. Cosmetics are full of unhealthy chemicals like formaldehyde and asbestos. What's worse: the labels don't typically come with warnings.

If any products run out, don't forget to recycle their containers. Plastic is not biodegradable! Vinyl (formally called polyvinyl chloride) shower curtains should also be disposed of. They release a carcinogen called dioxin, which is a serious health hazard. Cotton shower curtains are better for the environment and human health. They even last longer if properly cared for.

When it's time to scrub those pearly whites, a low-flow aerator will come in handy. This nifty tool will force less water out of the faucet it's attached to. If your sink isn't threaded to accept an aerator, simply avoid turning the water on at full pressure, and don't leave the water running while you brush. That last one is a no-brainer! Brush with baking soda to avoid the carcinogens commonly found in toothpaste.

Finally, when going to the bathroom in the morning, if the toilet doesn't need to be flushed, close the lid and save that water. This one is important; billions of gallons are wasted every single day on flushing! Even if it seems strange at first, morning routine habits like this are vital because they do more than help lower bills; they save the planet as well.

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