We’ve all made the purchase: whether it’s shoes, purses or food. There are always those dreaded little silica packets that warn, Do Not Eat.

Those silica packets aren’t deadly, regardless of all those warnings. Instead, Silica gel is a desiccant, a substance that absorbs moisture that protects products through shipping and making it from the manufacturer to your home.

Here’s 10 ideas to reuse Silica Packets:

1. Save your water damaged cell phone. Leave a few packets with your phone and battery (separated) in an airtight container overnight to eliminate moisture.
2. Tape the packets to the lid of herbs, pet food, etc to prolong shelf life.
3. Place in drawers or closets where you store leather boots & shoes.
4. Put in plastic baggies to protect your electronics while traveling.
5. Keep in your gym bag to avoid smell.
6. Put on your car dashboard to keep your windshield clear. (Hint: remember for the winter...)
7. Dry flowers
8. Preserve important papers & documents
9. Protect your photos
10. Keep your razor blades sharp

Craving more? MNN has more silica gel packet suggestions for you.

Photo: Popular Mechanics

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Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia. View all posts by Julie Hancher