15 Uses for Silica Gel Packets

We find silica gel packets in plenty of places - they may come with our newly purchased clothes or electronics packaging. I used to toss these packets to the garbage until I realized how useful they can be. These little bags are so incredibly useful thanks to their powerful moisture absorption abilities. They’re great to have around the house, in your car and on the go. Just be sure to keep them out of reach of children.

1. Keep seeds fresh Put a silica packet with your rice, beans, and other types of seeds to keep them fresh for longer.

2. Preserve herbs and spices No moisture = longer life for herbs and spices (and even dog food).

3. Save a wet cell hone Did your cellphone get wet? Leave it in a ziplock bag with a few packets overnight.

4. Prevent foggy windshields The fogginess on your windshield is from condensation of moisture - leave some silica gel packets in the glove compartment to absorb the moisture, leaving your windshield clear.

5. Prevent condensation on camera lenses Put a packet or two in your lens case to keep it clear.

6. Extend the life of photography equipment A few packets in the camera case will prevent internal rusting and keep your equipment in running order.

7. Keep your gym bag fresh Keep a few silica packets in your gym bag - they'll absorb the moisture that mold and bacteria (the main causes of bad odors) need to grow.

8. Prevent mold and mildew in your linen cabinet hide some packets in your closet and avoid moldy towels .

9. Keep your makeup travel bag dry This is one bag that often breeds moisture that ruins your often expensive makeup. A little bag or two of these gel packets will keep your cosmetics dry an fresh.

10. Extend the life of razor blades Humidity causes razors to rust, which reduces their efficacy and can be unhealthy. Keeping your razor in a ziplock bag with a silica gel packet will keep it sharp for longer.

11. Reduce rusting in your toolbox Place a couple of packets in your toolbox and keep your tools rust-free.

12. Keep photos safe from moisture Moisture damages paper. Keep a few packets with your photographs and keep those memories for years.

13. Avoid "old book smell" If you have an old book that smells bad, leave it in a bag with a couple of packets until it no longer smells.

14. Slow down tarnishing in silverware Tarnish is similar to rust in silver, so keeping some silica packets with your silverware will keep them shining for longer.

15. Preserve Christmas decorations A packet or two in your box of decorations will keep them looking new every year.