It seems like those little silica gel packets that say “DO NOT EAT” and “THROW AWAY” are actually more useful than you’d think. While you definitely shouldn’t eat them, you also don’t need to toss them—they can be handy around the house.“If your phone gets wet, place it in a sealable bag with as many silica gel packets as you can find.” It’s a great alternative to rice and helps absorb moisture overnight.

Pop a packet into your leather or sports shoes to prevent mold. “Keep your older books from getting musty by placing a silica gel pack in the cover.” Photos last longer too if you slide a packet behind the frame.

To dry swimsuits fast, toss a few packets in a ziplock with the suit. “Prevent a foggy windshield by keeping these packets on the dashboard.” They absorb extra moisture from the air.Dry flowers with packets or craft-store silica. To delay pumpkin rot, “toss a few silica gel packs inside the carved pumpkin.” And to keep garden seeds dry for next season, store them with a packet in a box.Just make sure to avoid colored silica gels—they can be toxic.