Salt is an amazingly versatile substance that serves purposes well beyond just seasoning food. Its uses range from household cleaning and stain removal to beauty treatments and even soothing sore throats. Not only does it enhance the flavor of dishes, but it also has a rich history, having been used as currency in certain cultures. However, rather than focusing on salt’s historical significance, let’s explore some of the most surprising and effective ways to incorporate salt into your everyday life at home.
ABSORB FOOD SPILLS
If an accidental spill happens, such as juice on the tablecloth or ketchup on your shirt, salt can be a helpful tool to absorb the stain. Just sprinkle salt on the affected area, allow it to sit for a while, and then wash as you normally would. Additionally, salt can be used to absorb spills on carpets, offering an alternative to harsh chemical cleaners.
REMOVE WATER STAINS FROM WOOD
Watermarks on wooden furniture can be unsightly, but salt is a helpful remedy for this issue. Create a paste by mixing 1 teaspoon of salt with a few drops of water, then apply the paste to the mark using a soft cloth or sponge. Gently rub until the mark fades away, and finish by restoring the wood’s shine with furniture polish.
ELIMINATE SWEAT STAINS
Sweat stains can be tough to deal with, especially on white clothes that tend to discolor easily. A salt-water paste can work wonders to remove pit stains. Apply the mixture to the affected area, leave it on for at least an hour, and then wash as usual.
CLEAN YOUR REFRIGERATOR
Cleaning your fridge regularly is crucial to keeping it fresh and hygienic. However, some stubborn stains and odors require extra attention. To clean thoroughly, mix 1/2 cup of salt with 2 liters of warm water and use it to scrub the shelves.
DEODORIZE SNEAKERS
Sneakers, particularly canvas ones, can start to smell, especially in the summer when worn without socks. To freshen them up, sprinkle a little salt inside your shoes to absorb moisture and combat odors.
KILL GRASS AND WEEDS
If unwanted grass or weeds are growing in the cracks of pavement or between patio stones, salt can help. Sprinkle salt over the plants, then pour boiling water over them. Alternatively, sprinkle coarse salt, let it sit for a day or overnight, and then pour hot water over it to eliminate the growth.
EXTINGUISH GREASE FIRES
In case of a grease fire, avoid using water as it can cause the fire to spread. Instead, quickly cover the flames with salt or baking soda, or use a metal lid to smother the fire.
REMOVE BAKED-ON FOOD
Baked-on food can be tough to remove, even with a powerful scrub brush. To make it easier, sprinkle salt over the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, add a little more salt and use a lime wedge to scrub the spot. The salt will work as both an abrasive and absorbent agent, helping to lift the food and leave your cookware clean.
RELIEVE BEE STINGS
A bee sting can be painful, but salt provides a natural remedy. Wet the sting immediately and apply salt to help alleviate the pain and reduce swelling. This method works well for most bug bites and stings and can be done at home.
CLEAN COFFEE POTS
Coffee pots can get stained and discolored over time, but salt can help restore their shine. To clean a glass coffee pot, add 1/4 cup of table salt and about a dozen ice cubes. Swish the mixture around, let it sit for 30 minutes, and then rinse with cold water.
PREVENT FROST ON WINDOWS
Salt water can prevent your windows from frosting in cold weather. Soak a sponge in salt water and rub it on your windows to keep them from frosting, even when temperatures drop below freezing. You can also do the same for your car’s windshield by putting salt in a cheesecloth bag, moistening it slightly, and rubbing it on the surface.
KEEP ANTS AWAY
To keep ants out of your home without harsh chemicals, create a salt barrier. Ants won’t cross the salt line, making it a safe, natural way to keep them away.