Those little packs of silica beads are more useful than you might think.
When you buy a new pair of shoes or the latest electronic device, your purchase might come with a little tiny package labeled “Silica Gel. Desiccant. Do not eat.” If you’re like most people, you probably throw these away. However, there are many uses for them, so don’t be so quick to toss them in the garbage.
Although the packages say, “Do not eat,” they aren’t actually toxic. They are filled with little silicon dioxide beads, and the only real danger associated with them is that they could pose a choking hazard for young children.
Save a wet phone
Forget rice. Next time your phone gets wet, leave it in a container of these packages overnight, and they should completely dry it out.
Protect your camera from moisture
When moving with your camera from the cold outdoors to a warm indoor location, condensation may form on the lens. Keep a desiccant package in your camera bag to protect it.
Defog Your Windshield
If you leave a few of these packets on your dashboard under the windshield, they will help dry the air out and clear the windshield off quickly.
SEE ALSO: The Fastest Way to Defog Your Car Windshield, According to Science
Prevent smelly gym clothes and shoes
If you keep a package or two in your gym bag or inside your shoes, they will help prevent mildew and will reduce unpleasant smells.
Keep your razors rust-free
Since your razor blades are constantly in a damp environment, they are likely to quickly get rusty. Store them in a container with some silica gel packets and they will stay nice and dry.
Protect old photos and documents
The last thing you want is to open an old box and find that your favorite photographs and important documents have been ruined by moisture. Store them with some desiccant packets to prevent them from getting damp.
Dry Flowers
Silia gel is often sold in flower shops because it is a great way to dry flowers. Fill a bowl with it, place your flower in the middle and wait a week or two for it to dry out.
Hat tip: Business Insider and Practically Functional
