You Should Eat Silica Gel Packs

Just kidding, it already says “DO NOT EAT”

silica gel is a desiccant — it adsorbs and holds water vapor, the gel packs suck up water vapor from the air and keep our new products dry and fresh. They’re frequently found packaged with leather products and other items that don’t react well with moisture.

Any woman who’s ever bought a new bag or shoes knows about those little silica gel packets that order us to throw them away and not eat them. We’ve all tossed them (and, presumably, not eaten them),

Although we’re told to throw the silica packs away, there are actually a pretty decent amount of surprising—and smart—uses for the little guys. We suggest keeping a few tucked away, especially now that you know what they actually do. Below, 10 times you can put those pesky little packs to good use.

Save a Water-Logged Phone
We’ve all been there: One second your iphone is in your hands, the next it’s deep in the toilet (or a cocktail—no judgement.) While this is a death sentence for most devices, all hope isn’t lost if you have some silica gel packs saved up! Here is how you can fix it fast. Remove the battery and any memory cards from the phone, then toss it in a bowl filled with silica gel packets. Be careful not to be overly eager and turn your phone on too quickly, as this could cause an electrical short and ruin your phone: Be sure to wait a full day or even two.

Protect Silver From Tarnishing
When your silver jewelry or flatware starts to look dirty or less vibrant, it’s most likely tarnished. Tarnish is caused by a chemical reaction between elements in the air coming into contact with the silver. The Daily suggests keeping a few silica gel packs in your jewelry box or silverware drawer in order to keep humidity in check.

Dry Makeup or Travel Bag – If you toss a few packets of silica gels into a Ziplock bag, it has enough water and moisture fighting ability to withstand any spills.

Keep Fabric Dry – If you like to sew, or use fabric for craft projects, keep a few of the silica packets with the fabric in a plastic or Ziplock bag to keep the moisture out.