6 Mistakes You're Making Every Time You Take a Shower

If you take a daily shower that lasts eight minutes, you probably spend more than 48 hours in the shower each year. So, here's something you most likely have never considered: how much of that time is spent doing damage to your body, the environment, and your water bill? Perhaps it's high time that you change your shower routine. Which of these 'mistakes' are you guilty of making?

1. You stay in the shower too longLong showers can do quite a bit of damage to your body - primarily in drying out your skin. They can also put quite a dent in your water bill too. In fact, according to the Alliance for Water Efficiency, in their average showers, Americans use 17.2 gallons of water.Tip: Cut your eight-minute showers down to five minutes. This will enable you to save more than two thousand gallons of water each year.
2. You wash your hair lastWhen you get in the shower, shampooing and conditioning your hair should be among the first steps you take. It makes sense to do so as some of the residue from these hair products can remain on your face, skin and hair, even once it's been rinsed. Tip: After you've washed your hair, continue with the rest of your shower routine. You should also use gentle soap or cleanser on your body and face to help scrub away any remnants of your shampoo or conditioner. 3. The showers you take are too hot or too cold
   
   A piping hot shower may seem tempting when the weather is a little chilly, while a nice cool shower on a hot summer's day is refreshing. Though it's best for your skin to keep the temperature moderate no matter what the outdoor temperature may be. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends a warm temperature to prevent the skin from drying out. Tip: Adjust the temperature of the water heater so that, as you're showering, it cannot go above a certain temperature. Doing so will also save you money on your monthly bill - water heating is the second largest energy expense in the home.
3. You do not have a post-shower routine
   The AAD recommends blotting your skin gently with a towel to dry as opposed to rubbing yourself dry, which may cause irritation and itchiness. Tip: Apply moisturizer afterward to help lock in moisture from the shower. 5. You don't ventilate the bathroom
   
   Mold thrives in damp areas, especially in non-ventilated bathrooms. Tip: Install an exhaust fan in your bathroom and keep the fan running for a few extra minutes after your shower. 6. You use the wrong showerhead
   Perhaps you haven't given much thought as to how old your showerhead is. if it was manufactured before the early '90s, it may have a flow rate of 5.5 gallons per minute. Current showerheads are required to have a flow rate of just 2.5 gallons per minute (or less). Tip: Check to see if your showerheads need an upgrade. There are many options available, though expect to invest at least $10 for a decent one.