Salt is known for its natural abrasive and antiseptic properties. It has long been used for a variety of purposes including cleaning, deodorizing, and even as a mild disinfectant.
The versatility of salt makes it an ideal ingredient for household maintenance. So, what happens when you pour a cup of salt down your toilet?
What Happens When You Pour a Cup of Salt Down Your Toilet?
Pouring salt down your toilet is a clever trick that many people swear by, and it has several benefits that may surprise you.
Pouring salt down your toilet has many surprising benefits, everyone should know. (Photo: Gold Coast Plumbing Company)
Deodorizes the Toilet Bowl
Salt, particularly coarse salt, helps neutralize odors in your toilet bowl thanks to its germ-killing ability. It is a key ingredient in many homemade toilet cleaning formulas.
Simply pour a generous amount of salt into the toilet bowl and let it sit overnight before flushing to deodorize. Any lingering odors will be effectively absorbed and neutralized by the salt. Flushing the toilet with salt can also kill germs in the toilet bowl and leave it cleaner and more sanitary.
Unclogs Drains
Coarse salt can also be effective at cleaning out debris and unclogging a toilet drain, and it’s inexpensive too.
Pour a full cup of salt into the toilet and let it sit overnight. Flush the toilet with hot water the following morning. This is an easy and very affordable way to unclog a toilet drain.
Removes Stains
Removing stubborn yellow stains from bathroom corners, bathtubs, or toilets can be quite a chore. Instead of resorting to harsh chemical cleaners, you can use salt as a scrub.
Salt acts as a mild abrasive that can help remove dirt and grime without damaging porcelain. Sprinkle some coarse salt in the toilet, let it sit for 30 minutes, and then scrub with a toilet brush, the yellow stains will be cleaned off immediately.
However, this method is only useful for light yellow stains. If the toilet has heavy yellow stains, you will still have to use strong bleach to clean it.
Whitens Toilet Bowls
It’s always best to use natural products to whiten or brighten porcelain. When added to a toilet, salt begins to dissolve, creating a salt solution that can break down light limescale and mineral buildup. It can also act as a mild abrasive that helps remove dirt.
Next, use a toilet bowl brush or专门的马桶刷 to scrub the toilet. This will effectively whiten the sides and disinfect it.
Saves Money
Opting for salt as a natural toilet bowl cleaner is a simple, effective, and more affordable alternative to chemical cleaners. This method has been used by people in Japan for ages, which goes to show that salt is indeed effective in cleaning toilets.
Other Uses for Salt
Combining salt with other ingredients can also help you tackle household chores with ease and simplicity.
Combining salt with other ingredients will also help with household chores. (Photo: The Salt Association)
Cleaning Burnt Pots
Burnt pots are inevitable in the kitchen. To deal with these burnt stains, soak the pot with salt and water for 10-20 minutes. The burnt stains will come off by themselves, all you need to do is scrub with a steel and they will be easily removed.
Cleaning and Unclogging Drains
Salt dissolves things stuck in clogged drains, especially grease. If you notice your drain getting slower, pour half a cup of salt down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar and baking soda. The clogs will easily dissolve and drain faster.
Removing Stains from Wood
Using a mixture of salt and olive oil, you can make your wooden furniture look as good as new. Place some salt and oil on a cloth, rub it for a few minutes, then wipe with another damp cloth and let the surface dry
Restoring Nonstick Pans
If you don’t want food to stick to your pan and ruin its non-stick coating, clean the pan with soap and water, dry it, then pour a generous amount of salt into the pan and heat over high heat until the salt turns brown. Your pan will regain its non-stick abilities.
Brightening Metal Objects
Simply add a handful of salt to a half-full can of beer or soda and use the solution to soak your metal objects for about 30-45 minutes. Next, wash with soap, and your metal items will be shiny and bright.