Why You Should Keep a Glass of Salt in Your Car A Clever Tip from Law Enforcement

Most drivers don’t think twice about their car’s interior environment—until foggy windows, strange smells, or unexpected mold start to show up. But a simple, surprising tip from a police officer might just change that: “Put a glass of salt in your car.”

It may sound unusual, but this easy trick can dramatically improve your car’s comfort and upkeep by fighting off excess humidity. Let’s dive into why it works and how you can use it to your advantage.

The Hidden Dangers of High Humidity Inside Your Vehicle

Excess moisture inside your car isn’t just inconvenient—it can lead to serious problems:

Fogged-Up Windows: Moisture causes glass to fog, especially in colder or rainy conditions, making it harder to see and increasing accident risk.
Unpleasant Odors: Dampness fuels mold and mildew growth, creating musty smells that linger in your car’s fabric and air system.
Health Risks: Mold exposure can aggravate allergies, asthma, and respiratory conditions, causing symptoms like sneezing, coughing, or itchy eyes.
Interior Damage: High humidity can ruin upholstery, corrode metal parts, and affect electronic components, leading to expensive repairs over time.

How Salt Naturally Reduces Humidity

Salt’s secret lies in its hygroscopic properties—meaning it naturally attracts and absorbs moisture from the air. When placed inside your car, it acts as a low-cost, chemical-free dehumidifier.

Unlike store-bought dehumidifiers that can contain synthetic substances or emit odors, salt is safe, natural, non-toxic, and easily available in your kitchen.

How to Use Salt to Dehumidify Your Car: Step-by-Step

1. Gather Your Materials
   You’ll need:

A clean glass or small container
About 1 cup of coarse or rock salt (better than fine salt for absorbing moisture)

2. Fill the Glass
   Pour the salt into the container, leaving a little space at the top.
3. Place It Strategically
   Set the glass in a secure area, like the cup holder or under a seat. Keep it away from electronics or direct sunlight.
4. Monitor and Refresh
   Check the salt weekly. If it becomes wet or clumpy, replace it with fresh salt to maintain its effectiveness.

What You Gain from Lower Humidity in Your Car

✅ Better Visibility: Clear windows mean safer driving in all weather.
✅ Cleaner Air: Fewer allergens and no musty smells make for a more pleasant ride.
✅ Protected Interior: Less moisture = less wear on seats, electronics, and surfaces.
✅ More Comfort: A dry interior feels fresher and more inviting for everyone.
Other Ways to Keep Your Car Dry and Fresh

While salt does a great job, combining it with these habits will give you even better results:

Inspect Seals and Gaskets: Worn door and window seals often let moisture in. Replace any that show signs of damage.
Use Floor Mats: Rubber or absorbent mats catch water from shoes and help prevent buildup.
Cover Your Car: A breathable car cover can shield your vehicle from snow and rain when parked outside.
Air Out Regularly: On dry days, crack your windows or doors to promote airflow.
Use a Portable Dehumidifier: For stubborn moisture problems, consider a rechargeable car-specific dehumidifier.
A Few Precautions

Salt is a helpful short-term solution, but not a fix for leaks or HVAC issues. Always address the root cause of high humidity.
Keep the salt in its container. If it spills, it may damage certain materials or attract moisture directly to surfaces.

Final Thoughts

What seems like a small act—placing a glass of salt in your car—can actually lead to big improvements in comfort, safety, and vehicle longevity. It’s an easy, affordable, and chemical-free way to fight humidity and keep your car feeling fresh and dry.

Sometimes, the simplest hacks are the most effective. Give it a try—you might be surprised at the difference.