Salt - a natural cleaner

An inexpensive staple in every home.

Here's a staple in every home that's also a natural cleaner. Have you thought of using salt to:

Remove wine or fruit stains If the spill is on a carpet, cover the stain with salt an allow it to absorb liquid from the fibers, then vacuum. If there's still a stain, sponge it with equal parts of vinegar and water, then with water alone, and blot with towels. If the spill is on a tablecloth or clothing, follow the same steps, then wash the item in the washing machine.

Clean cast iron Consider cleaning your iron pans with salt and a dry paper towel. Water makes iron rust. Season the pan periodically to make it easier to keep clean (see our cast iron page for directions).

Clean stains on counters, enamel, and ivory Dip the cut side of a half lemon in salt. Use the lemon and salt as a scrub brush, rubbing gently on the stain. Rinse with a clean damp cloth.

Clean wicker furniture Dissolve 1/2 cup salt in 1 quart of warm water. Dampen a soft brush with this mixture, sprinkle on some dry salt to provide some abrasion. Rinse thoroughly with clear water and pat dry.

Burned food in the oven Sprinkle spills generously with salt and 1 tsp. of cinnamon while the oven is still hot. When the oven is cool, remove the spots with a stiff brush or a cloth.

I adapted these ideas from an article I found in a 1982 issue of Chatelaine magazine.

Have you got some tips for using salt as a cleaner? If so, send them in so we can post them here!