10 Practical and Economical Uses for Epsom Salt

The next time you’re shopping, consider grabbing a bag of Epsom salt. These affordable crystals are not only fantastic for soothing your muscles in a warm bath but can also be used in various surprising ways! From nourishing your garden to scrubbing your cookware, here are 10 clever and cost-effective applications for Epsom salt.

1. Restore Cast Iron

If you have an old cast iron skillet that needs some restoration, I discovered a straightforward technique using Epsom salt. Begin by rinsing off any loose rust, then scrub the surface with Epsom salt followed by baking soda or table salt. Once clean, rinse it again, dry thoroughly, and apply a light coat of olive oil. Heat the skillet on low for about 30 minutes, allowing the oil to penetrate the surface.

2. Nourish Your Lawn

According to Bob Vila’s website, revitalizing a struggling lawn can be effectively achieved with Epsom salt. This natural method is safer and more affordable than chemical treatments. You can either fill a lawn spreader with the salt or dissolve it in water and apply it using a garden sprayer. The goal is to help achieve a neutral soil pH of seven.

3. Eliminate Weeds

If pesky weeds are bothering your lawn, ready a potent weed killer using this simple recipe. Combine a gallon of white vinegar, two cups of Epsom salt, and a quarter cup of blue Dawn dish soap in a container. You can easily adjust the quantities to fit a spray bottle. This mixture will effectively eliminate weeds in just a few sunny hours.

4. Increase Your Magnesium Intake

Bathing or soaking your feet in Epsom salt adds essential magnesium to your body. This mineral may help you unwind and improve your sleep quality, among other benefits. For a DIY approach, create magnesium oil by boiling one cup of distilled water, then mixing in half a cup of Epsom salt until dissolved. Once cooled, transfer it into a spray bottle.

This homemade oil costs less than a dollar, whereas store-bought versions run from $8 to $20!

5. Create a Natural Scrub

Integrate Epsom salt into your cleaning routine with a powerful yet eco-friendly scrub that tackles tough stains. An effective recipe I learned from my mom blends one cup of Epsom salt, half a cup of baking soda, and a quarter cup of liquid dish soap. This scrub works wonders on shower doors, sinks, and even stained glass.

6. Add Some Festive Decor

If you’re planning a winter-themed party or event, consider making Epsom salt luminaries as delightful decorations. Start with some crystal Epsom salt (opt for quality brands), and glass jars. Pour Epsom salt onto a paper plate, paint areas on a jar with Mod Podge, and roll them in the crystals. Allow them to dry before applying a few coats of clear sealer.

Note: For the best results, create these luminaries no more than a week before your event.

7. Fun Kids’ Activity

If you’re looking for something to do indoors on a rainy day, why not create an overnight crystal garden with the kids? Combine a 1:1 ratio of Epsom salt and warm water in a glass jar, add food coloring, and stir well. Place the jar in the back of your fridge or freezer overnight, and enjoy watching your magical crystal garden grow!

8. Scent Your Laundry Naturally

If you’re unsure about the various scented chemicals from commercial laundry products, you can add fragrance naturally using Epsom salt and essential oils. All you need are three components: Epsom salt, baking soda, and 20-30 drops of your favorite essential oil. Mix these together and store in a sealed container. Just a few tablespoons in each laundry load will provide a delightful scent.

9. Affordable Gift Idea

Need a budget-friendly last-minute gift? Whip up your own DIY bath salts. This concoction could even help you reduce your spending at Lush. Mix three cups of Epsom salt with two cups of sea salt and one cup of baking soda, along with a few drops of peppermint or your preferred essential oil. Optionally, add some food coloring for flair. Store it in a decorative, airtight container.

10. Repel Mosquitoes

To keep mosquitoes at bay in your yard, try this unique Epsom salt mixture that’s safe for your plants. Combine three cups of Epsom salt with a bottle of cheap blue mouthwash and 12 ounces of inexpensive beer. The recipe’s creator claims success with this method for over 15 years, keeping mosquitoes away for up to 80 days. I can’t wait to test this out myself!

What other creative uses for Epsom salt do you know? Share your ideas!