They Gather a Surprising Amount of Grime
Think about it: every time we cook or eat, we pick up the salt shaker, and in many kitchens, the pepper shaker comes out just as often. During cooking and mealtime, grease and other messes can easily land on them, and even sitting on the shelf, they collect dust and dirt. So it’s clear that regular cleaning is a must.
Better Homes & Gardens consulted expert Jack Kazmierzewski, who explained that just like in restaurant kitchens where keeping salt and pepper shakers clean is crucial for hygiene and passing health inspections, regular cleaning at home is equally important. It helps keep unwanted bacteria out of our food.
When It’s Time to Clean
First, remember to clean both the inside and outside of your salt and pepper shakers regularly. How often depends a lot on how frequently and where you use them. If they’re in constant use near the stove, Kazmierzewski recommends wiping the outside weekly. Otherwise, a thorough clean every few weeks should do.
As for the inside, the good news is that even with regular use, cleaning them every few months or whenever you refill is usually enough.
If you keep them near the stove or in a humid spot, cleaning every 1-2 months is smart. That’s because trapped moisture can cause clumping and even mold over time.
Watch for These Telltale Signs
There are clear signs it’s time to clean your shakers. For example, if the salt or pepper flow slows down or stops completely, it’s a red flag.
To prevent clumping in salt, try placing a few grains of rice at the bottom after cleaning. Rice absorbs moisture faster than salt, keeping it dry and free-flowing.
Also, if you notice dust or grime on the shaker tops, or if they feel sticky or greasy during use, be sure to wipe them down. And if the salt or pepper looks clumpy or discolored, moisture has likely gotten in. In that case, empty the shaker, clean and dry it thoroughly before refilling.
Make Sure to Clean Thoroughly
There are several ways to deep clean your salt and pepper shakers. For the outside, a simple wipe with a clean, damp cloth works well—just avoid getting moisture inside—and dry them right away. If there’s stubborn grease or grime, wipe them down with a 1:1 mix of white vinegar and water, again being careful to keep the inside dry.
For the inside, if your shakers are dishwasher-safe, just pop them in and let them dry completely before refilling. If not, take them apart and soak in soapy water for a few minutes, rinse thoroughly, dry well, and then refill.
