(Natural News)
Salt is a staple in many prepper stockpiles. This versatile item can be used for cooking, cleaning and even first aid.
Below are nine reasons to stock up on salt before SHTF. (h/t to FoodStorageMoms.com)
Salt is an essential survival item
During a long-term power outage or other survival scenarios, you can use salt to purify water. Salt can also be used to preserve food.
Salt has many health benefits
Salt has many health benefits when consumed in moderation:
Salt is used for food preservation
Salt can be used to preserve food. Adding the right amount of salt to meat can prevent spoilage and keep it fresh for a longer period.
Additionally, salt can be used to pickle vegetables. This method of preservation is effective and also adds a delicious flavor to the vegetables. (Related: Salt: How and why to store this survival essential.)
Salt can be used for cooking and seasoning
Salt is an important cooking ingredient because it’s often used for flavor enhancement. Adding a bit of salt can help bring out the flavor of various dishes.
Salt can be used for first aid
When SHTF and you get a cut or burn, applying a little salt to the area can help clean the wound and speed up healing. Note that this may hurt so don’t use too much salt.
Salt can be used for cleaning
Salt is great for cleaning your homestead. Sprinkle salt on a damp sponge to help remove stubborn stains from countertops and sinks.
Salt can also be used to clean delicate items like china and crystal. Rinse well afterward.
Salt can be used to deter pests
Sprinkle salt around doorways and windowsills to keep ants and other insects out of your home.
If you have a flea infestation, kill fleas and flea eggs by sprinkling finely ground salt on your carpet. Let the salt sit for 24 hours, then vacuum it up. The salt dehydrates the fleas and eventually kills them.
Salt is essential for soft water systems
If you prefer soft water or need it as part of sensitive skin treatment, you need coarse or pelletized salt for your tank.
Salt can be used to clear ice
Use salt to clear some ice buildup on your sidewalk or driveway. Note that salt used to clear ice is more coarse and that using it often and in large amounts can negatively affect the cement so clear it off as needed and try not to get too much on your lawn.
Tips for long-term salt storage
Follow the tips below to ensure that the salt in your stockpile lasts for a long time:
Store salt in a cool, dry place
Always store salt in a cool, dry place.
This is important because salt can absorb moisture from the air, which can make it clump and hard to use. Use an airtight container to store salt.
Use the right container
Glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids are best for long-term salt storage. Store salt in five-gallon buckets with gamma lids to keep salt dry.
Replace salt as needed
Like other items in your stockpile, salt will eventually go bad. If your salt starts to clump or looks discolored, replace it.
Tips for storing salt in bulk
Keep these things in mind if you want to store salt long-term in bulk:
How much salt do you need?
Salt storage amounts vary depending on who you ask, but most experts recommend having at least three pounds of salt per person per year for most household uses, like cooking. If you have the space, you can increase this to 10 pounds per person per year.
Here are some things to consider when it comes to salt consumption:
How long will salt last in long-term storage?
Pure salt without any additives will last indefinitely. However, sodium chloride is a stable compound and it will lose potency or flavor benefits over time.
Pure salts like canning salt, pink Himalayan salt and sea salt can last for a very long time if stored correctly. Meanwhile, salts like iodized salt have a shorter shelf life due to additives.
Salts you need in your stockpile
There are many types of salt, but not all of them are ideal for long-term storage.
Here are some of the best salts to stockpile before SHTF:
Before SHTF, stock up on salt if you plan on preserving food. Store salt properly, especially if you plan to stockpile it in bulk, to make it last indefinitely.
Visit Preparedness.news to learn more about salt and other items that you will need in your survival stockpile.
Watch this video that talks about the four reasons you should stock up on Himalayan salt.
This video is from the .
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