How to Store Salt Properly to Keep It Fresh

It goes without saying – salt is a kitchen essential, enhancing the flavour of everything from simple home-cooked meals to gourmet creations. While salt itself doesn’t spoil, improper storage can lead to clumping, contamination, and loss of its delicate mineral balance. Whether you’re using everyday table salt, Celtic sea salt or one of The Salt Box’s premium gourmet varieties, knowing how to store salt correctly will help maintain its quality, texture, and usability.

Why Proper Salt Storage Matters

Although salt is naturally resistant to bacteria and mould due to its low moisture content, it is highly hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. This can lead to clumping, making it less convenient to use. On top of this, exposure to strong odours and contaminants can alter its purity and flavour. By storing your salt correctly, you can preserve its texture, prevent contamination, and ensure it remains as fresh as the day you purchased it.

Some Best Practices for Storing Salt

Choose the Right Container

The best way to store salt is in an airtight container to protect it from moisture and airborne impurities. Some good options include:

• Glass jars with tight-fitting lids – Ideal for keeping salt fresh while allowing easy access.
• Ceramic containers – Non-reactive and stylish, ceramic jars help maintain the purity of natural salts.
• Food-grade plastic or stainless steel containers – Suitable for bulk storage, ensuring durability and protection from humidity.

Avoid storing salt in paper or cardboard packaging, as these materials can absorb moisture and degrade over time.

Keep It in a Cool, Dry Place

Store salt away from heat and humidity, as high moisture levels can cause it to clump. It’s also beneficial to keep salt away from direct sunlight. The best locations include:

• A pantry or cupboard away from the stove and sink
• A dedicated spice rack with good airflow
• A sealed salt cellar for easy access while cooking

If you live in a particularly humid climate, consider placing a few grains of uncooked rice or a food-safe silica gel packet in the container to absorb excess moisture.

Avoid Cross-Contamination

Salt can easily absorb odours from other pantry staples, such as spices, coffee, or strong-smelling herbs. To maintain its purity, store salt separately from these items and always use a clean, dry spoon or salt scoop to prevent introducing moisture.

Special Considerations for Different Types of Salt

Different salts have unique characteristics, and some require extra care:

• Himalayan Pink Salt & Rock Salt – These salts contain trace minerals that can be affected by excess moisture. Store them in an airtight container to preserve their structure.
• Flavoured or Smoked Salts – These salts are particularly sensitive to air exposure. Keeping them in a sealed glass jar helps maintain their distinctive aroma and taste.
• Epsom Salt & Bath Salts – If using salt for bathing, ensure it is stored in a completely dry container to prevent hardening.

Discover Premium Salts at The Salt Box

At The Salt Box, we are passionate about providing the finest natural salts, sourced from the purest locations around the world. Whether you prefer the mineral-rich depth of Celtic sea salt, the crisp finish of Australian sea salt, or the smoky complexity of gourmet flavoured salts, we offer a carefully curated selection to elevate your culinary experience. With the right storage techniques, your salt will stay fresh, free-flowing, and full of flavour. Explore our extensive range of premium salts today and experience the difference that high-quality, expertly sourced salt can make in your kitchen.