How to Keep Salt or Sugar from Clumping in the Shaker

Have you had trouble with your sugar or salt clumping up in the shaker due to moisture? The humidity in the air can create this annoying problem at home. Have you ever noticed you rarely have this problem at a restaurant? What is their secret?

Whether you are reaching for a sprinkle of salt for your eggs or potatoes, or want some sugar to add to your cup of tea, no one enjoys dealing with lumps in the shaker. Here are some helpful tips to avoid this problem.

Air Time

A quick wipe of the sugar or salt shaker will typically suffice to keep it clean between thorough washings. When you clean your shakers, simply wipe off the outside of the container with a damp cloth. Be certain not to get any water into the openings of the shaker. Doing so would cause the contents to clump.

During a thorough cleaning, each shaker should be emptied completely, then washed in warm, soapy water. Drying the container completely is key to keeping the salt or sugar flowing freely. Give the shaker plenty of time to air dry. Any moisture left in the container will cause problems.

Rice

If the openings in your salt shaker are small, it is wise to add a few grains of rice to the bottom before adding your salt. The rice will absorb any moisture inside the container. With this tip, your salt will flow smoothly from the shaker each and every time you use it. You won’t have to tap the shaker on the table anymore to break up any lumps that have formed.

Crackers

This is one of my favorite tips. Place a couple of oyster crackers inside a dry, clean sugar shaker. Like the principle behind the grains of rice, the oyster crackers will absorb moisture. The crackers are large enough that they will not fall through any holes in the shaker. You can again simply pour sugar into your tea or coffee without having to ask how many lumps your guests prefer.

Getting rid of the moisture and humidity inside the salt or sugar shaker will keep the contents flowing flawlessly. Allowing plenty of time for the container to dry thoroughly after washing is the most important step to keep sugar and salt from forming lumps. Using items that absorb moisture inside your salt and sugar shakers is a great idea. Try using oyster crackers or rice and see how smoothly your shakers flow. You will have no more lumps of sugar or salt, just like at your favorite restaurant.