Clever Uses for Silica Gel Packets

Silica gel packets are often found enclosed in certain items that you purchase such as shoes, new purses, make-up kits, electronics, and beef jerky. They are used to absorb moisture and keep things dry. This reduces the chance of mold growth.

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Here are some clever ways to reuse those free packets of silica gel instead of just tossing them in the trash.

1. Keep linen closets and dressers fresh. Keeping a few silica gel packets in your linen closet or dresser drawers is a cheap, easy way to keep your linens smelling fresh and clean.

2. Wet or damp clothes. If you are going swimming or planning to visit the beach take along a few packets with you. When placing wet clothes inside a bag ads some packets to absorb some of the moisture. 

3. Keep documents safe. If you have important documents such as birth certificates, property leases, last will and testament stored in file folders or envelopes, add a few packets to keep them protected.

4. Stop camera condensation. When you use a camera outside in the cold and then go inside where it is warm your camera might be exposed to condensation that could leave marks across the lens, or affect the camera’s internal mechanisms. To help get rid of this condensation remove the memory card, battery, and even the lens if possible and place the remaining parts of your camera with silica gel packets.

5. Dry out a wet cell phone. Whether you have dropped your phone water or spilled a beverage over it you can save it using these packets. Remove the battery and any memory cards from the phone, then toss it in a bowl filled with silica gel packets. Let it sit overnight before powering it on again.

6. Keep fabric dry. If you sew or knit and keep fabric or wool stored away place some packets in with the materials to keep them from becoming moist, and possibly damaged

7. Protect make-up. Store silica gel packets inside your makeup bag or case to maintain dryness help to ensure that you have no messy makeup disasters.

8. Extend the life of razors. Oxidation and moisture is the reason that razor blades fall to pre-mature dulling. A good tip is to keep a container half full of silica gel and after finished shaving, blot dry your razor blade and store the razor in the container. Keep it closed.

9. Vitamins and tablets. Silica gel packets are often stored with this initially, as it helps retain freshness and to prevent mold and deterioration. If you find a bottle without any packets after purchase you can add one yourself.

10. Protect silver and jewelry. Moisture can lead to rust, tarnish and corrosion on silver and jewelry. Slip a packet in your silver chest or jewelry box to keep these items looking great!

11. Keep photos or collectables such as stamps or cards in pristine condition. Whether you keep these items in an album or box you can add a few packets to keep moisture away.

12. Gym bags. Keep a silica gel packet in your locker or gym bag to keep your change of clothes, shoes and other belongings from smelling musty or foul.

13. Keep windshield clear. Windshields easily develop condensation, especially in the colder months of the year. Keep a few packets on the dashboard of your vehicle to help your windshield stay clear.

14. Gardening. If you save your own seeds for planting next year, storing them so they don’t mold is important. Place different seeds in small envelopes and then put them all in an airtight container together with a packet or two. Seal airtight and store.

15. Luggage.  Anything could happen to your bags during a vacation. To be safe throw a few packets in with your clothes. This will help to prevent any mildew or musty odors that result from clothes getting damp or wet.

Do you have any other clever uses for silica gel packets?