Salt lamps are extraordinary objects made with real salt and which radiate a beautiful light in the house. They are also believed to offer many benefits, such as clearing the air of irritants, releasing negative ions, and calming tempers. However, if you don't take care of them properly, they could ooze, melt, or drip moisture. To avoid this, keep your lamp in a dry room, reduce humidity, use the correct bulb and clean it often.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Keep the Lamp Dry
Step 1. Store it in a moisture-free area
Since it is made up of salt, it absorbs water and begins to dissolve when placed near wet elements; then put it in a slightly humid place.
Avoid places near showers, bathtubs, dishwashers or washing machines
Step 2. Reduce the humidity in the house
Too humid air could cause the lamp to melt; to prevent this you can use a home dehumidifier.
This is very important if you live in a region with a humid climate
Step 3. Put it away when using appliances that produce steam
Since moisture is the salt lamp's "enemy number one", you need to put it in a dry cabinet when using steam-releasing tools.
For example, move it to another room when boiling water, showering, or washing laundry
Step 4. Dry it often
Get in the habit of scrubbing it to get rid of excess moisture. use a cloth, towel, or other lint-free product.
If you don't want to proceed every few days, do so as soon as you notice drops of moisture on the crystals
Method 2 of 3: Perform a Good Maintenance
Step 1. Clean the lamp with a damp cloth
Although you may fear damaging it by cleaning or scrubbing it with wet tools, know that there is no risk of dissolving the salt; use a rag or sponge, taking care to wring out as much as possible.
- Turn on the bulb immediately after, the heat will evaporate the residual moisture.
- Do not immerse it in water and do not use cleaning products.
Step 2. Always keep it on
If the lamp is always too saturated, never turn it off; the heat evaporates the humidity that accumulates on the salt crystals, slowing down their dissolution.
If you prefer to turn it off from time to time, cover it with a plastic bag or similar item to prevent it from getting wet
Step 3. Put a protective layer under the lamp base
If you can't stop it from melting, add something to keep the cabinet away from water. You can use a saucer, coaster, plastic placemat, or other similar item that prevents water from reaching and damaging the surface of the cabinet.
Method 3 of 3: Check the Light Bulb
Step 1. Use the right light bulb
Salt lamps are designed to evaporate the water that is deposited on them; if the moisture does not evaporate properly, it begins to drip and gives the illusion that the whole element is melting. The ideal bulb should make the salt warm to the touch but not red-hot.
The 15-watt bulbs should be powerful enough for models weighing up to 5 kg; if your lamp weighs between 5 and 10 kg, opt for a 25 watt bulb. For heavier devices it's best to rely on a 40-60 watt one
Step 2. Check the bulb
If the lamp melts and water drips to the base, you need to inspect the bulb, because if moisture gets inside, it could cause problems. Pay attention if the light flickers, if there are any malfunctions or other anomalies.
Step 3. Replace the bulb
If you have excess water problems, change the bulb as it may not be the right one. Make sure it produces heat; you should be able to buy a replacement identical to the original bulb at any hardware store.
