Salt lamps are not only beautiful to look at; they also boast purported health benefits, from improving air quality to reducing electromagnetic radiation. However, their hygroscopic nature requires special consideration when it comes to storage. Proper storage is essential to maintain the lamp’s longevity and effectiveness.
Salt lamp storage may seem like a simple task, but there are specific steps you should follow to keep your lamp in optimal condition. Generally, salt lamps should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Below are some guidelines on how to store your salt lamp properly.
In this guide, we will walk through the best practices for how to store a salt lamp to ensure it remains a vibrant and functional piece of your home’s wellness toolkit.
What Will You Need?
Before we dive into the storage process, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Here are the essential items that will come in handy when storing your salt lamp:
- A clean and dry cloth
- A sealed container or bag (such as a plastic bag)
- Silica gel packets
Once you have these items, you can start storing your salt lamp.
10 Easy Steps on How to Store a Salt Lamp
Step 1: Clean Your Salt Lamp
Before storing your salt lamp, ensure it is clean and free of dust or debris. Use a clean, dry cloth to gently wipe the surface of the light. Avoid using any cleaning products as they can damage the salt’s structure. If there are stubborn spots or stains, you may use a slightly damp cloth to spot-clean those areas. Make sure the lamp is completely dry before proceeding to store it.
Step 2: Wrap Your Salt Lamp
After cleaning and thoroughly drying your salt lamp, wrap it with a dry cloth to protect it from dust and moisture. If you have a large salt lamp, you may need to use multiple cloths to ensure full coverage. Make sure the wrapping covers every part of the salt lamp, as exposed areas can attract moisture and lead to the dissolution of the salt.
Step 3: Place in a Sealed Container or Bag
With the salt lamp securely wrapped in a dry cloth, place it inside a sealed container or large, sealable plastic bag. This barrier is crucial for preventing any ambient moisture from reaching the salt lamp. If you’re using a bag, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to minimize humidity within the storage environment. If available, use a vacuum-sealed bag for additional protection.
Step 4: Include Silica Gel Packets
Add silica gel packets with the wrapped salt lamp inside the container or bag. These packets are desiccants and will absorb any moisture present, keeping the environment around the salt lamp dry. The number of boxes needed will depend on the size of the container or bag and the lamp itself. For a standard-size salt lamp, 2-3 packets should suffice. Ensure that the silica packets do not directly touch the salt surface, as direct contact may cause localized salt melting.
Step 5: Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Choose a storage location that is cool and dry to prevent any potential damage to your salt lamp. Avoid areas prone to high humidity, such as basements or bathrooms, as well as places that can become very warm, like an attic or near heating sources. A closet in an air-conditioned room is often ideal. By controlling the storage climate, you can further safeguard your lamp against moisture absorption and subsequent deterioration.
Step 6: Avoid Sunlight Exposure
Never store your salt lamp in an area where it will be exposed to direct sunlight. The heat and light can cause the salt to fade and may lead to increased moisture absorption if the air around the lamp becomes warm. Sunlight can also degrade the quality and color of the salt, diminishing the aesthetic beauty that makes salt lamps such captivating additions to any space. Store your lamp in a dark place or cover the container or bag with an opaque material to shield it from light.
Step 7: Check on Your Salt Lamp Periodically
It’s important to periodically check on your salt lamp while in storage, especially if you plan to store it for a long time. Every few months, open the container or bag to inspect the light for any signs of moisture or crumbling. This is also the perfect time to air out the light by removing it from its wrapping temporarily.
After inspection, replace the silica gel packets with fresh ones to ensure continuous moisture absorption. Remember to wrap the salt lamp with a dry cloth again before placing it back into the container or bag.
Step 8: Re-wrap the Salt Lamp as Needed
When you check on your salt lamp periodically, take the time to re-wrap it if necessary. If the cloth has absorbed moisture or the wrapping has become loose, replacing it with a fresh, dry cloth will enhance protection against humidity. Even if the fabric seems dry, but you have been storing the lamp for an extended period, consider re-wrapping it as a precautionary measure to maintain the quality of the lamp.
Step 9: Avoid Storing with Volatile Chemicals
Ensure your salt lamp is not stored near volatile chemicals, cleaning supplies, or air fresheners. These substances can release fumes that might react with the salt crystal, potentially altering its structure and appearance. The salt’s purity is integral to its aesthetic appeal and purported health benefits, so it’s crucial to maintain a clean, neutral environment free from harmful vapors.
Step 10: Properly Seal and Label for Long-Term Storage
If you’re planning to store your salt lamp for an extended period, it’s essential to seal the container or bag tightly and label it clearly. A label with the storage date and contents can be beneficial, especially if you have multiple items. This helps remind you of what’s inside and indicates how long the item has been stored, allowing you to track storage durations and ensure the salt lamp is not forgotten.
By following these simple steps, you can safely store your salt lamp and preserve its beauty and therapeutic qualities for years.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Avoid Humid Environments: Salt lamps absorb moisture, so keeping them in areas with low humidity is essential. Storing your light in damp conditions can lead to salt leaching, which may cause degradation over time.
- Keep Away from Water Sources: Do not store your salt lamp near sinks, dishwashers, or other water-prone areas. Direct contact with water can dissolve the salt crystal and damage the lamp’s integrity.
- Shun Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade the natural color of the salt crystal. It’s best to store your salt lamp in a shaded, cool place to preserve its vibrant hues.
- Avoid Enclosed Spaces: To maintain airflow around your salt lamp and prevent moisture build-up, avoid placing it in tightly enclosed spaces. Proper ventilation is key to preserving its structure and electrical components.
- Keep on a Stable Surface: Salt lamps are hefty and can be damaged if they fall. Ensure that the storage surface is level and stable, away from edges where they might be easily knocked over.
By avoiding these five things, you can ensure your salt lamp remains in pristine condition and continues to provide its health benefits for years.
Should I Wash My Salt Lamp?
It’s a common misconception that salt lamps should be washed or cleaned regularly. However, this is not necessary and can even harm the lamp. Salt crystals dissolve in water, so washing your salt lamp can cause it to deteriorate over time.
Moreover, salt lamps are naturally hygroscopic, meaning they absorb moisture from the air. This helps to purify the air and can improve respiratory conditions. Washing the lamp will remove this beneficial quality, as well as any accumulated dust or debris.
If your salt lamp appears dusty or grimy, wipe it with a damp cloth to remove any surface dirt. You can also use a soft brush to scrub any stubborn residue gently. But do not submerge the lamp in water or use harsh cleaning agents.
Lastly, it’s best to avoid washing your salt lamp and focus on proper storage and maintenance to ensure longevity. By following these tips, you can enjoy your salt lamp’s beauty and health benefits for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, storing your salt lamp correctly is central to maintaining its structural integrity, aesthetic appeal, and purported therapeutic value. By protecting it from humidity, avoiding water exposure, keeping it away from sunlight, ensuring proper ventilation, and placing it on stable surfaces, you effectively extend the life of your salt lamp.
Additionally, periodic checks and careful sealing for long-term storage will ensure your salt lamp remains a pristine and functional decor piece. Cherish and preserve your salt lamp with these considerate practices, and it will continue to endow your space with its warm, soothing glow and potential air-purifying properties for many years to come.
Hopefully, the article on how to store a salt lamp has provided you with helpful tips and information to properly care for your salt lamp. Remember, proper storage can make all the difference in preserving the beauty and functionality of your salt lamp, so be sure to follow these steps for optimal results. Enjoy the many benefits that a well-maintained salt lamp can bring to your home!