Silica packets: you'll never throw them away again when you see what they can do!

Make them work again, and keep them safe

After a while, a packet is full and stops taking up moisture. You can often dry it out again. Spread the packets on a baking tray and put them in a low oven, at about 200 to 250 °F (95 to 120 °C), for one to two hours. Check the packet first: paper and cloth-like packets are usually fine, but packets made of thin plastic can melt, and some say they shouldn't be heated at all. Never use a very hot oven, and let the silica beads cool before you use them again. Store them in a closed jar until you need them, or they will absorb moisture from the air again.

Some packets contain coloured beads that change colour when full, for example from blue to pink or from orange to green. These are called indicating beads. The blue kind can contain cobalt chloride, which is harmful, so don't dry those in the oven you cook in. Never open an individual silica gel pouch or bead, and wash your hands after touching loose beads.

Safety first: silica gel is not food, which is why the packets say 'do not eat'. Keep them away from children and pets. The common clear beads are mostly non-toxic, but a packet is a choking risk for a small child, and a pet that swallows several can get a blocked stomach. If a child swallows one, or anyone swallows a larger amount, call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222 in the US), the emergency number, or your vet. Used right, these free little packets will save you money on rust, damp, and odors!