Categories: Recycle

10 Ways to Reuse Silica Packets: WCI Weds

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

Julie Hancher

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.

Recent Posts

Lankenau resigns, Germantown connections, swing bridge, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: City’s top sustainability official steps down. Elizabeth Lankenau,…

1 day ago

Want to show voters what’s possible? Take them on a boat.

Ahead of Election Day, Camden County water advocates took residents onto the Delaware River to…

3 days ago

We’re hiring a Revenue and Partnerships Lead

Do you care about sustainability, journalism, and making a positive impact? Read more. Green Philly…

4 days ago

Midterm election results, climate preparedness toolkit, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: Environmental changemakers celebrated at SustainPHL 2026 Awards. Green…

1 week ago

More than just rain: Understanding South Jersey’s flooding problem

Communities need to prepare to avoid future disasters. This story was originally published by South…

1 week ago

Here are the SustainPHL 2026 Award Recipients

Meet the latest changemakers to take home the awards At a time when sustainability is…

2 weeks ago