9 Surprising Ways to Use Salt: Practical Household Tips To Try

_{There are plenty of practical ways to use salt, both in the kitchen and beyond. Read these additional and practical tips for salt around your home.}

9 Surprising Ways to Use Salt: Practical Household Tips to Try

Salt isn’t just for seasoning your food; it’s a versatile household staple with a myriad of practical uses that can help make your home cleaner, your clothes brighter, and even your life a little easier.

Here are nine surprising ways to incorporate salt into your daily routine. Some of these may even surprise you. I was pretty impressed.

Photo Collage of the many uses of salt around the home.

Stain Remover

Salt can work wonders when it comes to tackling stains. Mix it with a bit of lemon juice to create a paste, and apply it to stains on fabric or carpets. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing or blotting it away. This method is particularly effective for removing red wine stains from fabric!

Freshen Up Your Refrigerator

If your refrigerator is starting to smell, place an open container of salt in one of the shelves. This mineral will absorb unpleasant odors, leaving your fridge smelling fresh. You can also use a mixture of it and water to clean the surfaces inside your fridge.

Cleaning Cutting Boards

Wooden cutting boards can harbor bacteria and odors. To clean them, sprinkle coarse salt on the surface and scrub with a half lemon. The salt acts as an abrasive cleaner, while the lemon helps to sanitize and deodorize.

Enhance Laundry Brightness

Add a cup of salt to your laundry to help bright colors stay vibrant. It works as a natural fixative and can prevent colors from bleeding during the wash. It’s a simple addition that can extend the life of your favorite clothes!

Get Rid of Grease Stains

If you notice a stubborn grease stain on your clothes or fabric, sprinkle salt on it right away to absorb the oil. Let it sit for a few minutes before brushing off and laundering as usual. This method is especially handy for those unexpected spills during dinner.

Unclog Drains

Salt can be a natural remedy for unclogging drains. Pour a mixture of half a cup of salt and half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of boiling water. Let it sit for about 30 minutes before flushing it with hot water again. This combination can help break down the buildup in your pipes.

Fertilizer for Your Plants

Salt can boost the growth of certain plants when used sparingly. Dissolve a tablespoon of salt in a gallon of water and use it to water your indoor plants or garden. Be cautious, though—too much salt can harm plants, so moderation is key!

Homemade Pest Deterrent

If pesky ants or other insects are invading your kitchen, salt can help deter them. Sprinkle salt around the entry points where you notice bugs and create a natural barrier. The grainy texture deters insects, prompting them to find another route.

Polish Silverware

Over time, silverware can tarnish and lose its shine. Create a paste with salt, baking soda, and water, then apply it to your silver items using a soft cloth. Rinse with warm water and dry thoroughly. This trick will have your silver gleaming in no time!

Incorporating salt into your household cleaning and maintenance routines can save you time and money. These nine surprising uses showcase its versatility beyond the dinner table. Give these tips a try, and you may find this mineral becoming a go-to helper in your home!