Being a footballer - whether you play at the weekend or train every day - means muddy boots, sweaty kits, and lots of water use. But did you know that the way you use water can save you money as well as protect the environment? We’ve got some clever ways for you to save water without sacrificing performance to help Keep Life Flowing.
Here are our top tips for footballers looking to save both water and cash:
1. Effective hydration
Staying hydrated is a key part of any footballer’s routine – but there are still ways to be more efficient. Instead of running the tap until it’s cold, fill a reusable bottle with water and pop it in the fridge so it's easy to grab on your way out to training. This can save 10 litres a day - imagine that across your whole team.
2. Post-match showers
After a match, a quick shower will keep you refreshed. Cutting your shower by two minutes saves around 30 litres - multiply that by an entire squad, and the savings are huge. Consider fitting a low-flow showerhead too - you’ll save up to 9 litres per minute while keeping the same water pressure.
3. Pre-soak muddy kits
Throw dirty socks and muddy bibs into a bucket to soak before washing. This loosens mud and reduces the need for a long, heavy wash cycle - saving water and your wallet.
4. Wash kits efficiently
Full training schedules mean full machine loads. Running your washing machine when it’s full and on the ECO setting can save 14 litres every wash – a significant saving over the full season.
5. Rinse smarter
Instead of cleaning your muddy boots under a running tap, fill a bucket and use it to rinse them clean. You can then reuse the water in the bucket to rinse your training cones, footballs, or even water your pitch - making every litre count.
6. Pitch care
If you’re responsible for watering a training pitch or garden, use collected rainwater from a water butt and water early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation and make significant savings.
By following these simple tips, players, coaches, and clubs can save water, cut bills, and do their bit for the planet. Want to learn more? Check out our water saving tips for more ideas to save water and save money.