Most people think of salt as a staple in every kitchen – for adding flavor, for livening up vegetables, or perhaps as a symbol of the messy life we accidentally spill on the floor. But these humble white grains actually have much broader potential. Salt is a natural, affordable, and versatile ingredient that has been part of household hacks for centuries. What are now considered “cleaning hacks” were once known to our grandmothers, but they didn’t need TikTok to do it.
Cleaning experts are rediscovering today salt as a mild abrasive that not only mechanically removes stains and grease, but also binds odors, absorbs liquids and, when combined with other natural cleaners, works extremely effectively. Forget expensive, chemical-laden cleaners with fancy names – the solution may already be hiding in your pantry. Here are eight surprising uses for salt that you simply have to try.
1. Cleaning cast iron cookware: protect the patina without soapy water
Cast iron pans and pots are royal utensils in the kitchen – robust, timeless and … delicate. Regular cleaning products can destroy their protective coating (seasoning), so using salt is an ideal alternative. Coarse salt acts as a natural abrasive that gently removes burnt-on food residue and absorbs excess grease. Procedure? Sprinkle a layer of salt on a heated (not hot!) pan, leave for a few minutes, then gently rub with a damp sponge or cloth. Rinse and dry well. No soap, no drama – and with all the culinary history of your pan preserved.
2. Removing stains from ceramic and glass cups
Tannins from tea and coffee can leave stubborn stains on the inside of cups. Since salt is a natural but mild abrasive, its granular structure can effectively remove dark deposits without damaging the surface. How to use: Pour a teaspoon of fine salt into a cup, add a few drops of warm water and rub in circular motions with a sponge. After a few seconds, you will see the difference. The advantage? No need for harsh chemicals or scraping with your fingernail, as you may have done in desperation.
3. Tile joints: salt paste for whiteness without bleach
Cleaning grout is one of those tasks that we put off until the tiles start to resemble an archaeological site. But with a homemade paste of coarse salt and detergent, you can achieve a very effective cleaning. For stubborn stains, add a pinch of baking soda. Mix into a thick paste and apply with an old toothbrush or paintbrush. Leave for a few minutes, then scrub and wipe with a damp cloth. The salt mechanically breaks down dirt, while the detergent helps dissolve oil marks and soap scum.
4. Crystal and glass glasses: restore their shine
Glasses, especially crystal glasses, quickly lose their shine due to mineral deposits from water. The salt trick is simple and surprisingly effective. Mix a few drops of mild detergent with a tablespoon of salt in the glass and add a little water. Use a clean, soft cloth or sponge to rub the inside and outside in a circular motion. You can let the salt crystals act as a “cleaning bath” for a while. After rinsing and drying, your glasses will be ready for toasting again – this time in style.
5. Wooden boards: natural disinfection with lemon and salt
Salt has a unique ability to absorb odors and liquids, making it ideal for cleaning wooden or bamboo cutting boards. When combined with the acidity of lemon, it creates an effective combination for removing bacteria and stains. Sprinkle coarse sea salt on your cutting board, cut up a lemon, and rub it over the surface. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes, rinse with water, and dry. Your cutting board will be clean, disinfected, and smell surprisingly fresh.
6. Drains: Salt for overnight pipe detoxification
Clogged or smelly drains? A solution without harsh cleaners: pour half a cup of salt and half a cup of baking soda down the drain. Leave it overnight – the salt will absorb moisture and the soda will neutralize odors. In the morning, add another half a cup of vinegar and then flush with boiling water. The salt and soda together create a mild reaction that breaks down grease and organic residue in the pipes. No gloves, no tears.
7. Textiles and stains: salt as first aid for fresh accidents
Fresh wine, rust or coffee stains? Sprinkle a thick layer of salt immediately and let it soak up the liquid. The salt acts like a sponge, preventing the stain from setting into the fabric forever. For old stains, make a paste of salt and a few drops of water. Rub into the stain, leave for 30 minutes, then wash. Warning: do not leave salt on light-colored fabrics for too long, as it can leave white marks. Salt should be your first response – not your last resort.
8. Artificial flowers: shake off the dust with salt
Artificial plants can be very convincing… until they accumulate a layer of dust and cobwebs that would make even the most dedicated entomologist happy. The solution? A plastic bag, a few spoonfuls of salt and a little physical activity. Place the flowers in the bag, close it around the stem and shake it well. The salt will act like little cleaning robots, gently removing dust from all the hidden corners. The result? Flowers that look like they came out of the box again – no need to wash or vacuum.
Salt is probably one of the most underrated cleaning supplies in your home. While you won’t find it in any shiny bottle with the slogan “Ultra Power Fresh Max,” it often works more effectively than anything you buy at the store. And best of all, it’s natural, affordable, and waiting in your kitchen right now.
