Rainwater. Heavenly droplets created to clean the air of pollution, replenish rivers and lakes and keep the earth hydrated making the ground the perfect condition for things to grow.
Rainwater is great for the planet but what else can we use it for?
Depending on which part of the world you’re from, you may collect rainwater to drink, wash your clothes and dishes or to water your garden. Well, I have found a use for it that I am sure is not news to some of you but it sure is news to me.
Couple of years ago I was heading to an event for work. It was raining heavily with no signs of stopping and I had forgotten my umbrella. I was so happy to have my hair natural as I knew it would handle the rain like a champ. I ran through the rain to get to the building and as I fluffed out the excess water from my hair, I noticed a difference. My hair felt so soft I couldn’t keep my hands away and the softness lasted for a few days. I decided to do some research on rainwater and why it made my hair feel so much different than when I used tap water.
I found out that rainwater is soft water and pH neutral containing no salt or harsh chemicals. Makes sense since it's not processed. It lathers much better than the stuff coming out of your faucet and doesn’t leave soapy residue behind. Washing your hair with rainwater will leave it softer and shinier.
There are some recommendations and warnings you should follow. Avoid collecting the first showers.
- It is best to collect rainwater after a few good downpours as the first showers may be more acidic due to the chemicals from smoke, smog and other atmospheric pollutants. In fact, if you live in areas known for acid rain, you should avoid using rainwater all together.
- Make sure to retrieve your rainwater as soon as the rain stops falling to avoid insects from breading in it.
- Filter the water through a coffee filter or cheese cloth to remove any debris that may have gotten into it.
- Store in an airtight container and getting anything in it as rainwater is more susceptible to the growth of bacteria since it is untreated.
So, if every you end up getting several days of rain, think about catching some rainwater to use in your haircare regiment. Plants love it too. You can freeze the excess to use whenever you want.