You may have come across this small packet in your shoe box, in a box of water bottles or even in your vitamin bottles. Your normal reaction would be to throw it away after reading its label. In fact, many people are not even aware of the purpose of this pack and don’t even bother to know it.
These are the silica gel packs and they’re placed there inside the box for a reason – to prevent food and goods from molding and degrading due to humidity. Even if it’s just a tiny pack and only one of it is usually placed in a box or bottle, the benefit it provides goes beyond its size. It is actually worth using them again for various items in your home.
Silica gel is a form of dessicant or a substance capable of absorbing moisture hence its presence in boxes and bottles. Although some people fear that it can cause harm, it is actually eco-friendly, non-toxic, odorless and safe to use unless mixed with certain chemicals such as cobalt chloride.
Prevent Blades from Dulling
Other than its common use in shoe boxes and vitamin bottles, however, these tiny packs can be reused in a variety of ways. As an example, it can prevent razor blades from dulling. Just keep a few packs in a plastic container and once you’re done shaving, simply put the dried razor inside.
Prevent Camera Condensation
Did you know that silica gel also helps in keeping your camera in good condition? Whenever you bring your camera out in the cold, it normally experiences condensation by the time you go back to a warm room. What you can do then is remove the battery and memory card from the camera to air dry them. As for the camera, it should be placed in a bowl with silica gel to get rid of the moisture buildup.
Besides your camera, this packet can also help dry out your mobile phones and iPods just in case you accidentally got them wet. Make sure to remove the battery and memory card first and then leave the gadget overnight in a bowl of silica gel.
Keep a Dry Travel Bag
For those who travel often, these useful packs can help keep your bags dry. Simply put a few silica packs in a ziplock bag to help get rid of moisture in your travel bag in case certain liquid items such as colognes, perfumes and other beauty products get spilled along the way.
Keep a Clear Windowshield
Inside your car, just put a few packs on your dashboard and this will prevent your windshield from getting foggy. It’s a common occurrence that window shields get foggy when there’s high humidity but with silica gel, you will avoid this issue.
Natural Air Freshener
For those who love to use air fresheners such as potpourri in their homes, the silica beads can be your best ingredient. Just remove the beads from the packets, put them in a bowl, jar or baggie and pour a few drops of essential oil to create your very own air deodorizer.
Images via popularmechanics and millenniumwasteinc