Water softener salt is an essential part of the whole home water filtration process. It helps to remove hard minerals from your water, making it softer and more manageable. But what do you do with the leftover salt once the job is done? Do you just toss it in the trash or can you recycle it? Here’s what you need to know.

Most water softener salt bags are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is a type of plastic that can be recycled. HDPE is the most common type of plastic used in water-softener salt bags. The bags are also usually printed with Recycling Code 2, which means they can be recycled into new products.

When recycling water softener salt bags, it is important to empty the bag of all salt before putting it in the recycling bin. Water softener salt can damage the recycling equipment and contaminate other materials in the bin. It is also important to check with your local recycling center to see if they accept water softener salt bags before taking them there. Some centers do not accept these types of bags because they are not made of a common recyclable material.

If your local recycling center does not accept water softener salt bags, you can still recycle them by using them for other purposes. For example, you can use them as storage bags for food or as garbage bags. You can also reuse them as water softener salt bags by filling them with new salt and using them again. With a little creativity, those old salt bags can be transformed into something completely different.

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Other uses for water softener salt

There are many ways that water softener salt can be used around the home.

Here are just a few of the other uses for water softener salt that you may not be aware of.

1. Cleaning driveways and walkways

If you have concrete driveways or walkways, you know how difficult it can be to keep clean. But if you sprinkle a little water softener salt on them before you hose them down, the dirt and grime will come right off with very little effort on your part. Just be sure to sweep up any excess salt before it has a chance to dry so that it doesn’t leave behind a white film.

2. Removing rust stains

Water softener salt is great for removing rust stains from fabric. Just make a paste out of salt and water and rub it into the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes and then wash the item as usual. The rust stain should be gone!

3. De-icing sidewalks and steps

In the wintertime, sprinkle some water softener salt on your sidewalks and steps after it snows to prevent ice from forming. This will make it much easier (and safer) for you to get around outside.

4. Make Homemade Ice Packets

If you get frequent headaches or muscle aches, you know how useful ice packs can be. But instead of buying expensive commercial ice packs, you can make your own at home using water softener salt. Simply fill a resealable bag half-full with salt, then add enough water to cover the salt. Seal the bag tightly, and voila! You’ve got an instant ice pack that’s perfect for soothing headaches, reducing swelling, or numbing pain.

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5. Boost Laundry Detergent

If your clothes seem lackluster after washing them with laundry detergent alone, try adding half a cup of water softener salt to each load as well. The salt will help remove any remaining dirt or grime from your clothes while also boosting the cleaning power of your laundry detergent – leaving you with cleaner clothes in half the time. 

6. Create Ambient Lighting

Looking for a unique way to light up your next party? Water softener salt can help with that, too! Simply place several tea candles in small bowls filled with water softener salt for an ethereal lighting effect that’s sure to wow your guests. Or try filling decorative vases with different colors of water softener salt for a fun and festive way to celebrate any holiday or special occasion throughout the year.

7. De-grease oven grates

For oven grates that are covered in grease build-up, sprinkle water softener salt on them, then scrub with a stiff brush (we recommend using an old toothbrush). The grease will come right off, leaving your oven grates looking like new! Just make sure to wipe off any excess salt before placing them back in the oven.

Conclusion

Water softener salt bags are made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is a type of plastic that can be recycled. The bags are also usually printed with Recycling Code 2, which means they can be recycled into new products.

If your local recycling center does not accept water softener salt bags, you can still recycle them by using them for other purposes, such as storage bags or garbage bags. You can also reuse them as water softener salt bags by filling them with new salt and using them again.

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About the author

I started working as a quality control manager with the Water Authority of Nassau County in 2005. After a few years, I moved into Water Waste Prevention, where I currently work as the production supervisor. I love my job and the people I work with, but most of all I love spending time with my family.