Can You Water Plants with Bathwater?

When it comes to watering plants, people usually reach for the garden hose or a watering can filled with fresh water. However, if you're trying to conserve water or reduce your water bill, you might be wondering if you can use other sources of water to keep your plants hydrated. One such source is bathwater. But can you water plants with bathwater? Let's find out.

It Depends on the Soap

Before you start using your bathwater to water your plants, you need to consider the type of soap you use. Many soaps and shampoos contain chemicals that can harm plants or alter the pH balance of the soil. If you use natural, environmentally-friendly products, such as castile soap or shampoo bars, you're less likely to have any negative effects when watering your plants with bathwater.

Avoid Using Bathwater with Bleach or Harsh Cleaners

If you use harsh cleaning products or bleach in your bathwater, it's best to avoid using this water to water your plants. These chemicals can be toxic to plants and can harm beneficial bacteria and fungi in the soil. Similarly, if you have used a bubble bath or bath salts, avoid using this water to water plants, as they usually contain fragrances and dyes that can be harmful.

Test Your Bathwater

Before you start watering your plants with bathwater, it's a good idea to test the pH of the water. You can purchase a pH test kit at your local garden center, or use litmus paper. If the pH of your bathwater is significantly different from the pH of your soil, it can affect the ability of your plants to absorb nutrients. If the pH of your bathwater is too high, add a little vinegar to bring it down. If it's too low, add a bit of baking soda to raise it.

Use Bathwater Only on Certain Types of Plants

You shouldn't use bathwater to water plants that are particularly sensitive to salt, such as ferns or orchids. The minerals and salts in bathwater can build up in the soil over time and can cause these plants to wilt or die. Instead, use bathwater on hardier plants, such as succulents, cacti, or drought-resistant plants, which can tolerate a little bit of salt.

Final Thoughts

So, can you water plants with bathwater? The answer is yes, but with some considerations. Only use bathwater with environmentally-friendly soap products or natural and organic ingredients. Avoid using bathwater that contains bleach or harsh chemicals. Test the pH of your bathwater, and use it only on plants that can tolerate a bit of salt. With these precautions, you can effectively use bathwater to water your plants and contribute to water conservation efforts.