Many products are packaged with silica gel. You’ve probably thrown away hundreds at this point.
What are they, and why are they used in packaging? More importantly, what if they could be repurposed?
Silica Gel Packet Purpose
Silica gel is a desiccant, a substance used to maintain dryness. They are economical for businesses to keep their goods safe from excessive moisture during storage and transport. These gel packets are used for various products, such as electronics, food, clothing, and many others.
Silica Gel Packet Lifetime
Silica gel packets live from one to three years, contingent upon their environment. The packets don’t necessarily “die” after one to three years.
The silica gel can be reactivated on a baking sheet in the oven at 175 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes to remove the trapped moisture. Once cooled, store them in a zip-lock bag to keep them dry until you need them.
Phones
Silica packets can be used when your phone goes for a swim. Put the phone in a baggy with numerous packets and let it sit for 48 hours.
The packets are more effective than rice!
Tools
Throw a few packets in your toolbox to prevent rust.
Razors
A wet razor is a dull razor, so rest your blade on a silica packet. The packet will pull the moisture between the blades and ensure a smooth shave.
Gym Bag (and Shoes)
Gym bags notoriously stink. Silica gel packets will absorb the moisture (and therefore smell) of your gym bag, clothes, and shoes.
Documentation and Prints
Use a silica gel packet for your filing cabinet or photo album. You can even use one for a valuable card or memorabilia collection.
Electronics
Any electronics with a screen or lens should be stored with a silica gel packet. A packet is a cheap method to prevent moisture and condensation damage.
Jewelry and Silverware
Jewelry isn’t cheap, so through a gel packet in your jewelry box. Likewise, slow the tarnish of fine silverware with a silica packet.
Pet Food
These handy little packets can help keep your pet’s food fresh. Place the food in an airtight storage container and drop the packets in or tape them to the inside.
Books
Moisture will damage paper pages and make books smell musty. Place a few packets around your bookshelf or between the pages of your favorite books.
Medications
Vitamins, prescriptions, and other pills can be kept with silica gel. Do not store medications in the bathroom medicine cabinet. Bathrooms are hot and humid, which can cause pills to dissolve.
Windshield Defrost
Nothing is worse than frost on the inside of the windshield. Place a few silica packets on your dashboard to help prevent interior windshield frost.
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