Table salt, chemically known as sodium chloride (NaCl), is the common seasoning found in kitchens worldwide. You can put table salt in your bath, as it is non-toxic and dissolves easily in water. However, it is generally not the substance of choice for those seeking the therapeutic benefits commonly associated with specialized bath salts. This difference stems entirely from the distinct chemical makeup of table salt compared to other varieties.
Understanding Table Salt Composition
Standard table salt is overwhelmingly composed of sodium chloride, making up about 97% to 99% of its total mass. This compound consists of positively charged sodium ions (Na+) and negatively charged chloride ions (Cl-), which separate when dissolved in bathwater. The remaining percentage of table salt is made up of various additives crucial for its function as a food product.
These common additives include potassium iodide, added to iodized salt as a dietary supplement, and anti-caking agents, such as calcium silicate or sodium ferrocyanide, which ensure the salt flows freely. When table salt is added to a bath, these minor components do not contribute any therapeutic value and may potentially leave a fine, insoluble residue in the tub. The primary effect on the water is simply the addition of sodium and chloride ions.
How Table Salt Differs from Therapeutic Salts
The difference between table salt and salts specifically marketed for bathing, like Epsom salt or natural sea salt, is fundamentally a matter of chemistry. Epsom salt, for example, is not sodium chloride, but rather magnesium sulfate (MgSO4). This compound releases magnesium and sulfate ions into the bathwater.
The supposed benefits of bath salts, such as muscle relaxation and the easing of aches, are largely attributed to the presence of magnesium. Natural sea salts also contain some sodium chloride but possess a broader spectrum of trace minerals, including magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which are often cited for their skin-soothing properties. Since table salt lacks the significant magnesium content of Epsom salt and the varied mineral profile of sea salt, it does not offer the same potential therapeutic effects.
Practical Effects on Skin and Plumbing
Using table salt in a bath will expose the skin to a high concentration of sodium chloride, which can have a temporary osmotic effect. Sodium chloride is known to be a drying agent, meaning a bath with a high concentration of table salt may draw moisture from the skin’s surface, potentially leading to dryness or temporary irritation. However, using a small amount, such as one cup, is unlikely to cause a significant issue for most people.
A more practical concern relates to household plumbing and fixtures. Sodium chloride is corrosive to many metals, and frequent use of high salt concentrations can accelerate the deterioration of metal faucets, drains, and pipe fittings over time. The anti-caking agents found in table salt are often insoluble and can contribute to residue buildup within the bathtub or drainage system. Regular, heavy use of table salt in the bath is not recommended for maintaining the longevity of your plumbing.