Using salt in the refrigerator and around the house for various purposes is a practical and cost-effective approach. Here are some additional ways you can utilize salt for household tasks:
- Cleaning a Greasy Pan: If you have a greasy pan or kitchen utensils, sprinkle some salt on the greasy residue before washing. It will help break down the grease and make it easier to clean.
- Reviving Sponges: Sponges can develop unpleasant odors and bacteria over time. Soak them in a saltwater solution to freshen them up and extend their usability.
- Unclogging Drains: A mixture of salt, baking soda, and hot water can help clear minor clogs in your kitchen or bathroom drains. Pour this mixture down the drain and let it sit for a while before flushing with hot water.
- Cleaning a Coffee Maker: If your coffee maker has mineral deposits or coffee residue, run a mixture of water and salt through it to clean it. Follow with several cycles of plain water to remove any salt residue.
- Cleaning Burnt-On Food: For stubborn, burnt-on food in pots and pans, add a little water and salt, then bring it to a boil. Let it sit and cool, and you should be able to scrub away the burnt residue more easily.
- Cleaning Stained Teapots: If your teapot has tea stains, fill it with a mixture of salt and warm water and let it sit for a few hours. Scrub the stains away with a brush or sponge.
- Cleaning Refrigerator Shelves: To remove stains and spills from refrigerator shelves, sprinkle salt on the affected areas and scrub gently. It will help loosen the stains.
- Extinguishing Grease Fires: In case of a small grease fire in your kitchen, you can use salt to smother the flames. Never use water on a grease fire, as it can make the fire worse.
- Preventing Fruit Browning: You can use a saltwater solution to prevent fruits like apples and pears from browning after slicing. Simply dip the fruit slices in the solution briefly before serving.
- Removing Wine Stains: If you spill red wine on fabric, blot the stain and then sprinkle salt over it to absorb the wine. Later, you can wash the fabric as usual.