8 Things You Didn't Know You Could Clean with Salt
Salt has a number of household uses, from soaking up stains to scrubbing stuck-on kitchen messes.
If you’re looking for a natural cleaning remedy, reach for your spice cabinet. Salt can be used for a number of household cleaning jobs, from soaking up kitchen spills to unclogging pipes. It can act as a natural abrasive, scour out stains, soak up spills, and help keep your plumbing in top shape. To make the most of your salt shaker, learn which items you can clean with salt, and what types of salt you should be using.
Related: Learn About Green Cleaning and Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
What Types of Salt Should You Clean With?
Kosher salt is the best option for cleaning because it doesn’t utilize any trace minerals; instead, it's comprised solely of sodium chloride. For best results, you’ll want to select a coarse salt in order to benefit from all its abrasive properties. Stay away from pricier salts that are best for using in smaller quantities while cooking. After all, most cleaning jobs will require anywhere from half-a-cup to a full cup of salt.
1. Cast Iron
You might already know that you shouldn't use soap to clean cast iron; instead, turn to salt. The abrasive nature of salt will help remove stuck-on messes without damaging the surface of your cast iron. While the cast iron is still warm, add a cup of salt and begin working it onto the surface using a microfiber cloth. When your item is clean, remove the salt and rinse the cast iron in warm water. Dry it completely before coating it with oil and storing it away.
Related: How to Clean Cast-Iron Stove Grates Without Damaging the Finish
2. Coffee Mugs
Coffee stains in your mugs can be hard to get rid of once they’re set in. To gently and naturally remove any traces of java, a mixture of crushed ice and salt can do the trick. Add salt to the bottom of your cup and place a bit of crushed ice on top. Cover the top of the coffee cup with a layer of plastic wrap, then place your hand on top and shake the mug—you might need to get aggressive with it, but be careful not to break the mug. Rinse the cup with clean, warm water and the stains should disappear.
Related: How to Clean a Coffee Maker for a Better Tasting Cup of Joe
3. Cutting Boards
Refresh your cutting boards by eliminating smells and stains with half a lemon and salt. Start by sprinkling the cutting board with salt and massaging it in. Let it sit for 10 minutes. Next, begin scrubbing the salty surface with a lemon that has been cut in half. Squeeze the lemon as you work in order to release the juice. Once thoroughly scrubbed, rinse the cutting board with hot water, sloughing off any remaining salt using your hand, then let it air dry completely before storing.
Related: Why You Should Absolutely Be Oiling Your Wood Cutting Boards Regularly
4. Clothes Iron
If your iron has a residue on its plate, that can easily transfer to your clothes, leaving behind stains, burns, and other irrevocable damage. The key is to keep your iron in top shape with regular cleanings. Set your iron on the warm setting. While it heats up, lay out a piece of paper or newspaper. Sprinkle salt over the paper. Once your iron is heated, start ironing circle overs the salt and paper to loosen up any residue on the bottom of the iron. Turn off the iron and let it cool before using a damp cloth to clean off any remaining loosened grime and salt.
5. Pans
Greasy pans are no match for coarse salt. Just cover the pan in salt and let it sit for 10 minutes. Use a sponge to gently scrub any burnt edges, grease-laden areas, or other stuck-on messes. Use warm water to rinse the pan clean.
Related: How to Clean a Burnt Pot or Pan So It Shines Like New
6. Household Stains
Salt can act as a natural bleach for stains ranging from mildew to water stains, though it’s always best to test your formula on a small, inconspicuous area of your item before committing to the treatment. Try one of these two methods: Sprinkle salt over the stained area, then pour club soda onto the stain and let the mixture sit for a few hours or up to overnight; or create a paste of lemon juice and salt and scrub it onto the stain. Place the item in the sun for a natural bleach effect.
7. Kitchen Spills
When spills happen on the stove or in the oven, throw some salt on the mess as soon as possible. The salt will help soak up the mess and allow for easier cleanup.
8. Clogged Pipes
Instead of reaching for harsh chemicals when your sinks start to drain a bit slow, look to salt for a first go at it. Place a half cup of baking soda and half cup of table salt in your drain and let it sit overnight. Pour boiling water down the drain to rinse away the mixture. Just be aware that this solution could make bad clogs worse, so it’s always best to consult a professional before trying your own home remedy.
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