As cottagers, we spend as much time as possible immersed in nature. So we often see firsthand how critical it is to conserve our natural resources—especially water. That’s why an eco-conscious innovation like the RainStick Shower can transform your cottage bathroom. Designed for efficiency, the RainStick Shower conserves up to 80 per cent of water and 80 per cent of heating energy by recirculating and filtering water in real time. And unlike low-flow showerheads, which can result in longer, less-enjoyable showers, the RainStick Shower accomplishes those conservation feats while delivering a high-pressure flow.
But what makes it designed specifically to meet cottagers’ unique needs? Let’s look at how it makes life at the lake more sustainable by addressing three major water challenges we face in cottage country.
Drought and climate variability
Our summers are becoming warmer and drier, straining water sources throughout cottage country. If you draw from a private well or directly from your lake, you’ve likely seen this already, especially when water levels have dropped. But the effects extend way beyond water availability. When levels drop, it can increase the concentration of pollutants in the water we use, and contaminants like bacteria and fertilizers can compromise our water quality.
While climate change is a much bigger problem, the RainStick Shower directly addresses the challenges of lower water levels and contaminated water through its closed-loop system, which continuously filters and sanitizes the water you shower with. By capturing, purifying, and recirculating water, you’ll be using only a small amount of fresh water each time you shower. That can help preserve local water sources, because even if you like taking long, luxurious showers, you’ll be using only 20 per cent of the water you’d typically need. And because the water is filtered and treated in real-time, you won’t have to worry about contaminants.
RainStick Shower. Available to buy now. Delivered in 12 weeks.
Water-quality concerns
Surface water from lakes is a common water source for cottages, but it can be unpredictable. In warmer weather, you may deal with algae blooms, increased bacterial contamination, or the effects of pollutants, which can make lake water unsafe for drinking or even bathing. The toxins released by algae blooms can be especially harmful to both you and your pets, and agricultural runoff can add other bacteria and chemicals to the water we use.
But with the RainStick Shower, you’ll draw significantly less new water each time you shower, meaning you’ll be reducing your exposure to potentially contaminated surface water. And even if you’re drawing from a lake with water-quality concerns, its built-in filtration process helps to treat the water you’re using. It can also be safer for your plumbing system, as the filtration can prevent blockages or contamination from untreated lake water. So even if your main goal is water conservation, the RainStick Shower’s design also results in safer, cleaner water.
RainStick InWall. Available for Pre-Order. Delivery Expected Mid-2025.
Peak-season water conservation
One of our most common water-conservation challenges is the surge in use during peak cottaging months, when we all flock to the lake. When family and friends come to stay, showers, laundry, and dishwashing can strain our water supplies and septic systems. Depending on your showerhead, a shower can use anywhere from 9.5 to 18 litres per minute, so every rinse adds up!
Thanks to its circulation system, the RainStick Shower can make a huge difference during peak cottage season. Not only does it use 20 per cent of the typical amount of water you’d need, but it does so without the “low flow” effect that can ruin a good shower. And by lowering the amount of wastewater you and your guests generate, it can dramatically reduce strain on your septic system. RainStick is WiFi enabled and comes with a smartphone app featuring smart technology that lets you track your water savings with every shower, giving you a clear picture of the money, energy, and water you’re saving.
With its significant water savings, energy efficiency, and smart tracking—all without sacrificing a high-pressure flow, the RainStick Shower could be the perfect way to save water at the cottage all season long.
Heading to the Fall Cottage Life Show? Order your RainStick Shower using code CottageLife24 before the show ends, and you’ll save an extra $300 on your purchase.