You likely have at least one container of table salt sitting in your pantry. We use salt for cooking almost every day, but it might surprise you to learn that salt can actually be used for a ton of different purposes. So go ahead and stock up on table salt — you’re going to need it!
1. Removes Stuck-On Grease
If your pots and pans are covered with a layer of stuck-on grease, just pour some salt in the pan, then use a sponge to scrub at it. The salt will soak up the grease and buff it away.
2. Preserves Cheese
If your cheese is past its best but you’re not ready to throw it away yet, soak a cloth in a solution of salt and water, then wrap the cheese in the cloth. The salt will help preserve it until you’re ready to eat it all.
3. Eliminates Ants
Ants hate salt, so if you have an ant problem, try sprinkling some salt in any areas in your home where you’ve seen them. If your ant problem persists, try adding a little cayenne pepper into the mix.
4. Unclogs Drains
If your drains are clogged, mix together equal parts baking soda and salt, then pour it down the drain. Follow by pouring some distilled vinegar down the drain, then let it sit for about half an hour. When the time’s up, pour hot water down the drain.
5. Cleans Grime And Mildew
To remove grime and mildew from your shower or bathtub, cut up half a lemon, then add some salt onto the lemon. Use the lemon wedge to gently scrub at the stains.
6. Removes Shoe Odors
If your shoes are a little bit stinky, try sprinkling some salt in each one, then let them sit overnight. In the morning, either dump the salt or vacuum it up. The salt will absorb the odors and neutralize your shoes.
7. Prevents Shower Curtain Mold
To prevent mold spots from appearing on your plastic shower curtain, try rinsing the curtain with a mixture of water and salt. This will stop any mold from forming on the curtain.
8. Determines Egg Freshness
Determining whether or not eggs are expired is difficult, but not with this hack. Dissolve a few teaspoons of salt in a glass of water, then place an egg in the glass. If the egg floats, it’s past its best-before date.
9. Preserves Fruit And Veggies
To prevent your fruit and veggies from going brown before you’re ready to eat them, place them in a bowl of water and dissolved salt. The solution will keep your produce in peak shape for a bit longer.
10. Removes Carpet Stains
If you spill something on your carpet, use a sponge to absorb as much of the liquid as possible, then dump some salt onto the stain. Let it sit overnight, then vacuum up the salt.
11. Eliminates Hand Smells
If you’ve just chopped onions or garlic and your hands are holding the smell, run them under water, then use salt to gently scrub your hands. When you rinse, any lingering smells should be gone.
