16 Uses for Salt That Don’t Involve Cooking
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Salt is a common ingredient found in most kitchens around the world. While many think of it only as a seasoning for food, salt has many uses beyond cooking. This versatile mineral can enhance our daily lives in ways we might not have considered. From cleaning to crafting, salt can be a handy tool that makes tasks easier and more effective.
In this article, we will explore 16 creative uses for salt that go beyond the dinner table. With just a little salt, you can tackle various challenges around your home and enjoy its benefits. Prepare to be amazed by the many practical applications of this simple yet powerful substance.
Deodorizing Shoes and Bags
If your shoes or bags have been smelling funky, salt can help. Sprinkle a generous amount of salt on the affected area and let it sit for a few hours or overnight. The salt will absorb moisture and odor, leaving your items fresh and clean.
Removing Stains from Clothes
Salt is a great natural stain remover that works well on clothes. Mix equal parts of salt and hot water to create a paste for tough stains like wine or coffee. Apply the mixture onto the stain and leave it for 30 minutes before washing as usual.
Remove Rust from Tools
Rust can be a big problem, especially for metal tools. Salt can help remove rust and restore them to their former glory. Rub a paste of lemon juice and salt onto the rusty tool and let it sit for a few hours. Wipe off the paste, and you’ll see that the rust has disappeared.
Clean Greasy Pans
Greasy pans can be challenging to clean, but salt makes it easier. Sprinkle salt on your greasy pan and use a sponge or brush to scrub the grime away. The salt’s abrasive texture helps break down grease, making it easier to remove.
Exfoliate Your Skin
Salt’s exfoliating properties benefit the skin. Mix equal amounts of salt and olive oil to create a natural scrub that will leave your skin feeling soft and smooth. Add a few drops of essential oils for a calming or invigorating scent.
Whiten Your Teeth
Salt can also help whiten your teeth and eliminate bad breath. Brush your teeth with a small amount of salt and baking soda. The salt will remove stains, while the baking soda helps neutralize odors. You can also mix salt with water and use it as a mouthwash.
Sanitize Fridge Shelves
Fridge shelves can become breeding grounds for bacteria if not cleaned regularly. Sprinkle salt onto a damp sponge and use it to scrub the shelves. The salt’s abrasive nature will help remove stubborn stains, while its antibacterial properties will sanitize the surface.
Keep Ants Away
If you’re dealing with an ant infestation, salt can help keep them at bay. Sprinkle salt around windows and doors to prevent ants from entering your home. You can also sprinkle salt directly onto visible ant trails to discourage them from returning.
Soothe Insect Bites
Salt has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe insect bites. Mix salt and water to create a paste, then apply it to the affected area. The salt will reduce swelling and relieve itching, relieving pesky bug bites.
Eliminate Puffy Eyes
Puffy eyes can be an unwelcome sight after a long night or a rough day. To reduce puffiness, soak cotton pads in a mixture of salt and warm water. Place them over your closed eyelids for 10-15 minutes, and the salt’s anti-inflammatory properties will help decrease swelling.
Brighten Your Brass
Brass items can lose their shine over time, but salt can help bring them back to life. All you need is salt, vinegar, and flour. Mix them into a paste and use it to scrub the brass item. Then, rinse it off with warm water and polish it. Your brass will look as good as new.
Remove Water Rings from Furniture
Did you accidentally leave a wet glass on your wooden furniture? Don’t worry; salt can help remove the water ring. You can make a paste with salt and vegetable oil or use a salt and water mixture to rub the ring gently. The salt’s abrasive nature will help lift the stain and restore your furniture.
Freshen Up Garbage Disposals
Garbage disposals can get smelly over time due to food residue. Salt can help eliminate odors and clean the disposal at the same time. Pour a cup of salt down the drain, run hot water for a few seconds, then turn on the disposal. Combining salt and water will clean the bin and eliminate any lingering odors.
Revive Wilted Greens
If your lettuce or other greens are starting to wilt, don’t throw them out yet. Soak them in cold water with a pinch of salt for about 30 minutes. The salt will help hydrate the greens, making them crisp and fresh.
Get Rid of Fishy Smell on Your Hands
After handling fish, it’s common to have a lingering smell on your hands. To remove this odor, rub your hands with salt and rinse with warm water. The salt will neutralize the smell and leave your hands smelling fresh. Also, it’s much gentler on the skin compared to harsh chemical-filled soaps.
Create Homemade Bath Salts
You can use salt to create your bath salts at home. Mix equal parts of Epsom salt and sea salt, then add a few drops of your favorite essential oils for a relaxing and rejuvenating bath experience. You can also customize the scent by adding dried herbs or flower petals.
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