Most people keep at least one container of table salt in their kitchen, mainly for cooking and seasoning their favorite dishes. However, salt is far more versatile than many realize and can be used for countless purposes around the house beyond adding flavor to food. This inexpensive, natural ingredient can tackle cleaning, deodorizing, preserving, and even pest control, making it a must-have staple in every home. If you thought salt was only for the dinner table, think again.

Here are eleven clever ways to put table salt to work around the house, proving that this simple pantry item is one of the most powerful multitaskers you own. First, salt is excellent for removing stuck-on grease from pots and pans. When dish soap and scrubbing aren’t enough, pour some salt directly into the greasy pan and use a sponge to scrub. The salt acts as an abrasive while soaking up the grease, making it easier to wipe away stubborn buildup without damaging your cookware. Another surprising use is preserving cheese that’s a little past its prime. If you’re not ready to toss it out, soak a clean cloth in a mixture of salt and water, then wrap the cheese tightly in the cloth before refrigerating it.

The salt slows bacterial growth, extending the cheese’s life until you can finish it. Salt is also a natural way to get rid of ants. Simply sprinkle it along windowsills, doorways, or anywhere you’ve seen ant trails. The salt disrupts their scent paths and keeps them from coming inside. If the problem persists, mix in a bit of cayenne pepper for extra strength. Clogged drains can often be cleared without harsh chemicals using salt and baking soda. Combine equal parts of both, pour the mixture down the drain, then add distilled vinegar.

Let the fizzing reaction work for about 30 minutes before flushing with hot water. This simple, inexpensive method helps break down buildup and keeps drains smelling fresh. Salt is equally handy in the bathroom for cleaning grime and mildew. Cut a lemon in half, sprinkle salt on the cut side, and use it to scrub stains in your shower, bathtub, or sink. The lemon’s natural acidity combined with the salt’s scrubbing power removes buildup and leaves a fresh, clean scent behind. If your shoes smell less than pleasant, salt can help there too.

Sprinkle a generous amount inside your shoes and let them sit overnight. The salt absorbs moisture and odor, leaving your footwear fresh by morning. Just shake or vacuum out the salt before wearing them again. Shower curtains are prone to mold spots, but you can prevent this by rinsing plastic curtains in a saltwater solution after washing them. The salt acts as a natural barrier that helps stop mold from forming. You can even use salt to test whether eggs are fresh. Fill a glass with water, add a few teaspoons of salt, and place an egg in the glass. If it sinks, it’s still good to eat. If it floats, it’s past its best and should be discarded. Salt water also works wonders in preserving fruits and vegetables, preventing them from browning too quickly. A simple soak in a bowl of saltwater keeps your produce fresh and crisp for longer.

For carpet stains, first blot up as much of the spill as possible, then cover the area with salt. Leave it overnight to absorb remaining moisture and loosen the stain. Vacuum the next day to reveal a cleaner carpet. Lastly, salt is perfect for eliminating lingering odors on your hands after chopping onions, garlic, or fish. Wet your hands, sprinkle on some salt, rub gently, and rinse. The salt neutralizes strong smells naturally. These eleven clever uses prove that table salt is more than just a kitchen seasoning—it’s a powerful, natural household helper that solves everyday problems without the need for expensive or chemical-filled products. Keeping an extra container or two in your pantry isn’t just smart for cooking; it’s an easy way to tackle cleaning, preserving, and deodorizing tasks throughout your home.