How to Dissolve Salt Deposits

Salt deposits or efflorescence are unsightly white stains that build up on items that have been exposed to salt water, which has then evaporated, leaving the salt deposits behind. Unless removed, these salt deposits can eventually damage the items that they have built up on. Dissolving a salt deposit usually requires just water, but if it has been in place for a long time and combined with carbon dioxide, some simple household items can remove it

Things You'll Need

  • Fresh water
  • Vinegar
  • Toothbrush
  • Sponge
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Instructions

    • 1

      Rinse the salt deposits in fresh warm water. If the salt deposits have not had the chance to react with carbon dioxide, they will dissolve in the water. Wash the solution away and rinse the item again in more fresh water to ensure that the deposits are cleared. If this does not dissolve the deposits, you will need to resort to an acidic solution.

    • 2

      Apply vinegar to the affected area. Check first that the vinegar will not discolor the item. Let the vinegar soak in for a few minutes.

    • 3

      Scrub the deposits with a toothbrush. The vinegar should have broken down and dissolved the deposits so they are easier to remove. If the area has dried then apply more vinegar and let it soak the deposits before repeating the scrubbing.

    • 4

      Rinse the cleaned area with water to wash away the vinegar and the dissolved salt deposits. If possible use water under pressure to ensure that all deposits and acids are cleared away.