As people age, they become increasingly vulnerable to dehydration. Older people living in care homes are particularly at risk and ensuring that they receive and consume adequate amounts of fluid every day can be a challenge. This article describes the findings of a quality improvement project conducted in two London care homes aimed at optimising residents’ fluid intake. A range of simple and inexpensive practical solutions were developed and implemented with good results. The research team that worked with staff on the project has since developed a free resource pack on hydration in care homes