Have you ever wondered what can you do with the small packets filled with tiny beads of silica that you often find them when you buy a new bag?
Those little silica gel packets are surprisingly useful once you know what to do with them!
One of the best ways to save the planet is to reduce waste. If we all reduce the production of waste, we will contribute to the nappy life on this planet.
By browsing (do not throw it away) category in my blog, you can read new and creative ideas of reusing and recycling a range of different things that used to be tossed.
This will help eliminating the pollution, saving the life on our planet, and of course saving money.
Don’t throw silica gel packets away!!
When you buy new shoes or bag you may notice a white bag inside it called Silica Gel, which is also found in the boxes of electrical appliances and others, so what are the uses of silica packets and are they toxic?
What is silica gel?
Silica gel is an amorphous and porous form of silicon dioxide. Source
What is silica gel packets use for?
The main use of it is to absorb moisture in the containers of shoes and tools, and also to get rid of bad odours.
It’s actually a drying agent to keep moisture from damaging certain food and commercial products.
Does silica gel actually work?
Silica gel can absorb about 40 percent of its weight in moisture and can take the relative humidity in a closed container down to about 40 percent. Source
What happens if you eat silica gel?
Silica Gel is not toxic. It is chemically inert, this means it won’t break down in the body and cause poisoning.
However, it is a dehydration product and that may cause irritating the throat and nose, stomach pain and constipation. Source
But, silica gel packets consider chocking hazard for younger children and pets.
How many times can silica gel packets be reused?
Silica gel packets can be used more than once!
After the silica gel absorbs moisture, it losses it’s effectiveness.
But the good thing is that you can recharge silica gel by baking the packets in the oven at around 250°F (120°C) for a couple of hours to dry them out, then reuse them again.
22 creative uses for silica gel packets:
1- Eliminate bacteria by using silica bag packets:
silica gel packets are perfect for keeping clothes fresh and moisture-free!
You can keep the clothes and shoes away from bacteria and unpleasant odours by placing a few packets in the corners of your drawers and closets or between folded clothes.
They’ll absorb humidity and help prevent musty smells.
2- Get rid of bad odours in the car:
One of the most important uses of the white silica bag is to get rid of bad odours and high humidity inside the car by placing more than one silica bag in the sides of the car. Also in the winter, put the silica bags on the windshield to reduce the mist on it and make the vision clearer.
3- Rescue your mobile or any device damaged by water:
If your mobile phone accidentally took a dive into water, silica gel packets can be a lifesaver—literally.
In this case, turn off the mobile phone immediately and remove everything you can like case, SIM card, memory card, and battery (if removable).
Use a soft cloth to wipe off visible water.
Place the phone inside an airtight container and surround it with as many silica gel packets as you can find.
Seal the container tightly.
Wait for 24-48 hours so that the silica gel packets can absorb all the hidden moisture.
4- keep the photos for a longer time:
photos are prone to moisture damage, so using silica gel to protect them is a smart move. It helps prevent moisture damage, mold, and sticking over time.
Use a photo-safe box, envelope, or plastic bin with a lid.
Place 1–2 packets (or more for larger boxes) around the photos—not directly on them.
You can tape the packets to the inside lid or tuck them in the corners.
Now your beloved photos are safe from moisture damage, but you need to check on them every few months. If they feel moist or you notice humidity returning, “recharge” them by baking at 250°F (120°C) for 1–2 hours to dry them out.
5- one of the uses for silica gel packets is keeping the important papers:
Using silica gel packets to protect important papers like birth certificate, marriage contract, land and real estate deeds is a simple and effective way to prevent damage from moisture, mold, and mildew.
Store these documents or important papers in a document holder, or a box with led.
Tuck 1–2 packets in the corners or tape them to the lid or side of the folder.
Avoid placing them directly on papers to prevent any residue transfer.
If you live in a humid area, check packets regularly and replace or recharge them by baking at 250°F (120°C) for 1–2 hours.
Also, it’s a good idea if you label your silica gel packets with the date you added them—so it’s easy to track when they need refreshing.
Read more:
20 ways to reuse used coffee grounds.
6- Keep curtains, towels and other textile materials from bad smell and mould:
curtains and towels can easily pick up musty smells or even mildew if stored or kept in damp spaces. Silica gel packets are perfect for helping with that!
Store in airtight bins or vacuum bags and drop in 2–4 silica gel packets.
Place packets around the fabric, not directly touching if you’re storing delicate or colored curtains.
Keeps moisture out and prevents that “damp linen closet” smell.
Also, Pop a packet at the bottom of the towels basket to help prevent that “used towel” smell, especially if the basket is packed.
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7- Moisture absorption of glass and mirrors:
Silica gel packets are great for moisture absorption and can definitely help with preventing fogging, condensation, and moisture-related damage to glass and mirrors.
Tape a few silica gel packets to the back of the mirror in the bathroom or place them on a shelf behind or near the mirror.
If your mirror is part of a cabinet, place the packets inside the cabinet to help absorb ambient moisture.
You can do the same thing with glass windows or panels.
Place silica gel packets on the window sill, especially in rooms prone to high humidity (bathrooms, kitchens).
If you’re storing glass or mirrors (in a garage, attic, or basement), wrap them in cloth or cardboard and toss in a few silica packets to keep moisture away.
8- Maintaining electrical and household appliance:
It’s common that there’s some equipment in the house is rarely used. Using silica gel packets to protect these electrical and household appliances is a smart move. They help prevent moisture buildup, which can cause rust, corrosion, or even short circuits.
- If you’re storing any appliance (like a blender, toaster, coffee maker, or stereo): Add packets inside the appliance box or storage bag.
- For things with compartments (like a microwave or oven): place a few packets inside when not in use.
- For electronics like remotes, TVs, game consoles: Place packets behind or under devices in cabinets to keep humidity low.
- For battery compartments: When not in use for a long time, remove batteries and place a silica gel packet nearby to prevent corrosion.
- For power tool case: Toss a few packets inside toolboxes or cases to prevent rust on metal tools and parts.
- In refrigerators or freezers (when turned off): If the appliance is turned off (e.g., during a move or in storage), place silica packets inside to prevent musty smells and mold. Keep the door slightly ajar for best results along with the packets.
- Near WiFi routers or modems: Moisture can affect signal strength or electronics. Placing silica packets near the unit can help keep it dry, especially in humid climates.
9- keep the razors longer:
Using silica gel packets to keep razors in good shape is a super effective trick to prevent rust and extend their life.
Moisture causes razor blades to dull and rust faster—even if they look dry after use. Silica gel absorbs that leftover humidity and keeps the blades dry.
Get a small, airtight container (like a food storage box or old Tupperware).
Place 2–3 silica gel packets inside.
Dry the razor after use, then store it inside the container with the silica packets.
This creates a dry micro-environment that slows rust and keeps blades sharp longer.
10- Storage of plant seeds:
Using silica gel packets to store plant seeds is a great way to keep them dry and viable for longer. Moisture is the enemy of seed storage—it can cause mold, rot, or early sprouting.
Use an airtight container (like a mason jar, small Tupperware, or sealed ziplock bag).
You can also use envelopes or paper packets for seeds, placed inside a larger sealed container.
Place 1–2 small packets of silica gel in the container with the seeds.
Make sure the packets don’t touch the seeds directly if they’re very small—put a layer of paper or fabric between them if needed.
Label the container with the seed name and collection date.
Store in a cool, dark, and dry place—like a pantry, fridge, or storage drawer.
Don’t use too many packets—seeds need to stay dry, not bone-dry. Too much desiccation can reduce germination in some species.
Read more:
11- use Silica gel packets to protect leather items:
Using silica gel packets to protect leather items is a smart move—they help prevent mold, mildew, cracking, and musty odors caused by excess moisture. Here’s how you can use them effectively:
- In Storage Boxes or Drawers: Place 2–3 silica gel packets inside boxes or drawers where leather items (shoes, belts, bags, jackets) are stored. Make sure the packets are not in direct contact with delicate leather surfaces—wrap them in fabric or place them in corners.
- Inside Leather Bags or Shoes: Put one small packet inside each shoe, boot, or bag when not in use. This help absorb humidity and odor from the inside.
- Closet or Shelf Storage: Place several packets in closets or shelves where leather items are kept.
You can also hang a mesh bag with silica gel on a hanger near jackets or coats.
Extra Leather Protection Tips:
- Clean and condition leather before storing it long-term.
- Never store leather in plastic bags—they trap moisture. Use breathable fabric covers instead.
- If storing in a humid area, consider combining silica gel with charcoal packets for odor control.
12- protection of travel bags:
Using silica gel packets to protect leather items is a smart move—they help prevent mold, mildew, cracking, and musty odors caused by excess moisture. Here’s how you can use them effectively:
- In Storage Boxes or Drawers: Place 2–3 silica gel packets inside boxes or drawers where leather items (shoes, belts, bags, jackets) are stored. Make sure the packets are not in direct contact with delicate leather surfaces—wrap them in fabric or place them in corners.
- Inside Leather Bags or Shoes: Put one small packet inside each shoe, boot, or bag when not in use. This help absorb humidity and odor from the inside.
- Closet or Shelf Storage: Place several packets in closets or shelves where leather items are kept. You can also hang a mesh bag with silica gel on a hanger near jackets or coats.
13- keep the lustre of silver and other accessories:
Silica gel packets are great for protecting silver from tarnishing, as they absorb moisture that can cause oxidation.
Place your silver items (jewelry, cutlery, coins, etc.) in airtight bags or containers. This minimizes exposure to air and humidity.
Put a few silica gel packets inside the container with your silver. For best results:
Use 1 packet per small container, or more for larger storage boxes.
Make sure the packets aren’t touching the silver directly to avoid potential scratching.
Silica gel eventually gets saturated with moisture. Replace or dry them out every few months.
14- Drying flowers with silica gel packets:
Using silica gel packets to dry flowers is a great way to preserve their shape and color. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
- Trim the Flowers: Cut stems to about 1–2 inches, and remove any damaged petals or leaves.
- Prepare the Container: Pour a layer of silica gel at the bottom (about 1 inch deep).
- Place the Flowers: Place flowers face-up or on their side, depending on their shape. Gently pour more silica gel around and over the petals to fully cover them without crushing.
- Seal and Wait: Close the container tightly. Let it sit for 2–7 days, depending on the flower type and size.
- Check and Remove: Carefully remove the flowers once dry. Use a soft brush to remove any leftover gel.
15- Prevent make-up damage:
Silica gel packets are super handy for protecting makeup from moisture, which can cause mold, clumping, or spoilage—especially in humid climates.
Drop 1–2 small silica gel packets into your makeup bag or organizer.
They’ll absorb excess moisture and help keep powders (like eyeshadow and blush) from getting cakey or hard.
For Palettes and Powder Products: Slip a silica packet into the box or sleeve of your eyeshadow or face powder palettes (without touching the product directly).
It helps prevent hard pan (when powder forms a shiny, unusable surface).
Read more:
16- Keep the camera bag from moisture:
If you often use the camera outside the house when the weather is humid or cold, simply put the silica bag inside the camera bag to protect the camera and the camera lens from steam and fog.
17- Freshen the gym bag and the closet:
The wetness in the gym, especially the sports bag and your closet can attract bacteria and bad smell. Using silica gel packets to freshen up your gym bag is super easy and effective!
Drop 2–4 silica gel packets directly into different sections of your bag. If your bag has pockets or compartments, spread them around for full coverage.
For extra neatness, put the packets into a small mesh bag or an old sock. Just make sure it’s breathable.
After a few weeks, the packets will be saturated with moisture. You can recharge them or replace them.
18- silica gel packets to protect the books:
Silica gel packets are great for protecting books from moisture damage like mold, mildew, and warping.
Tuck 1–2 packets behind books or between groups of books on each shelf to subtly absorb humidity.
Make sure packets don’t touch delicate covers directly if they’re very old or valuable.
If you’re storing books long-term (in a box, drawer, or container), toss in 2–4 silica gel packets depending on the size of the container.
Spread them out so moisture is absorbed evenly.
19- Keep the pet food dry:
Using silica gel packets to keep pet food dry is smart as moisture can cause mold or spoilage, especially in humid climates.
But you need to remember to never put packets inside the food container directly.
Silica gel isn’t toxic in small amounts, but it’s not meant to be eaten, and pets might chew through a packet. So we’ll use it around the food, not in it.
20- Preserve herbs and spices:
Using silica gel packets to preserve herbs and spices is a clever way to keep them dry, fresh, and flavorful for longer. Moisture is the enemy as it causes clumping, mold, and loss of potency.
Always use food-grade silica gel, labeled safe for use with edibles. These are designed for spice jars, supplements, and food packaging.
Use jars or containers with tight seals. This keeps moisture out and lets the desiccant do its job more efficiently.
Drop 1 food-safe silica packet on top of the herbs/spices, or tape it to the lid to keep it from touching the contents directly.
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