How to Reuse Silica Gel

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Last Updated: October 4, 2023 References

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So, have you got thousands of silica gel packets but not sure what to do with them instead of throwing them away? Then, you're reading the right article. There are tonnes of ways to reuse them, read on!

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Getting Started

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So you might have found some packets inside a seaweed packet or something else. If it has had contact with food, it's better if you wipe it clean with a dry cloth or something and then wash the cloth. Don't wash the packet or else the gels will suck in the water but you will learn how to dry them up later on so it doesn't matter unless you want to do an extra job.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Reusing Them

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where you don't want it to get wet, place some packets to wherever the objects are stored in so it could suck in the water therefore not allowing mold etc. to accumulate.^{[1]
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These damp places often have mildew. Placing the packets can absorb water and kill bad things.
Tuck a small envelope filled with one packet behind the picture's back to protect the frames/pictures hanging on your walls.^{[2]
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The gel will absorb the water when the things have touched with water therefore not decreasing the quality of pictures with streaks or fogs.
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Dry flowers with silica as well. It's a quick and no mess way. It'll take about 2 to 3 days until all dried.^{[4]
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Place some within the storage area to prevent this from happening.
They are a great way to use and it takes one day. Take out the memory card but don't turn on the phone and leave some packets in a container.^{[5]
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Tarnishing is a big issue with silver!
Just stuff the food in a bin ans stick some packets behind the lid then close it.^{[6]
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Place some in the pockets of clothes to keep them clean and free from mold and possibly bugs.^{[8]
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Use them to keep Halloween pumpkins from molding. They are a great way to preserve pumpkins but are not edible. Place 3/4 grams of silica for every 100 cubic inches of pumpkin.
It's a simple and a really effective way to preserve them.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Drying the Gel

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, that means that there is too much moisture. This is how you dry them.
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Open the packets if you haven't already and lay them out on a baking tray with a cookie sheet or baking paper as apart as possible.
Don't make contact with sun-light.^{[11]
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Community Q&A

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Question

Where can I get this gel?

Community Answer

Have a look on Amazon or eBay or anywhere else on the internet. Just search for "Silica Gel" and you'll find some easily.

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Question

Where can I purchase additional silica gel packets?

Community Answer

You can buy silica gel packets online.

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Question

Can silica be added to the soil?

Community Answer

Of course! Silica gel can be used to keep your plant soil wet for a few days if you are unable to water your plant.

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