Next stop on our sustainability tour? The laundry room and bathroom! These two areas are resource hogs, consuming both water and energy. Let's get started, so you can green up while you clean up.
Tips & Actions
Laundry Room
Only wash full loads of laundry
Get the most out of your wash by only washing full loads of laundry. If you only have enough laundry for a half-load, offer to share the wash with a friend.
Use cold water
It takes energy to heat water, so try using cold water to wash your clothes. Check out 'Numbers' above for more information about the amount of energy needed to heat water.
Switch to laundry detergent sheets
These sheets take up less space, generate less plastic and contribute less carbon emissions.
Bathroom
Turn off faucet
Shaving? Washing your face? Brushing your teeth? Turn off the faucet when you aren't actively using it.
Take shorter showers
We love showers just as much as you, but cutting your shower time by 2 minutes every day can save 28 gallons a week.
Report leaks to maintenance
A small faucet leak can waste up to 20 gallons a day. Report leaks to Housing Maintenance by submitting a work order at housing.usc.edu.
Use eco-friendly products
Many personal care products contain potentially harmful ingredients. Skip the sulfates and buy natural alternatives. Your body and the environment will thank you!
Avoid microbeads - those tiny plastic particles in your personal care products. Instead, choose cosmetics with natural ingredients like walnut shells or sugar.