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Best Salt To Use For Water Softener (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to soften your household water, then you may have come across the term “salt for water softeners”. But how do you choose the right salt to use for your water softener? There are a few factors to consider before making a purchase.

Firstly, you need to determine the type of water softener you have. Some may require specific types of salt while others can use any type. You also need to consider the grain size of the salt – this can affect how efficiently it dissolves and how well it works.

Another factor to consider is the brand of salt. While some brands may be more expensive, they may also be higher quality and deliver better results. It’s important to read reviews and compare prices to find the best option for your household.

So, how do you know which salt is right for you? Consider asking yourself these questions: What type of water softener do I have? What size grain is recommended for my unit? What is my budget for salt? By asking these questions, you can narrow down your choices and make an informed decision for your household’s needs.

10 Best Salt To Use For Water Softener

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for providing soft water to the entire house with salt and water-saving technology, and NSF certification.
2
This product is ideal for softening water in dishwashers made by Bosch, Miele, Thermador, Whirlpool and other brands.
3
The product is ideal for softening water in dishwashers made by various brands like Bosch, Miele, Whirlpool, and Thermador.
4
This product is ideal for improving water quality by reducing hard mineral levels and salt consumption, suitable for drinking, laundry, and dishwashing.
5
The product is ideal for producing alkaline water with various health benefits such as improved digestion, hydration, and antioxidant properties.
6
The product is ideal for organizing laundry room and dispensing laundry beads or washing powder to enhance scent.
7
The product is ideal for replacing humidifier filters in whole house humidifiers, models 350-768.
8
Ideal for measuring multiple parameters including pH, TDS, EC, salinity, temperature in hydroponics, water, spas, aquariums, and wine.
9
It is ideal for compatible dishwashers from various brands to improve water quality and reduce lime scale buildup.
10
This product is ideal for preventing scale build-up in pipes and reducing limescale in a whole house without the use of salt.
Ideal for providing soft water to the entire house with salt and water-saving technology, and NSF certification.
This product is ideal for softening water in dishwashers made by Bosch, Miele, Thermador, Whirlpool and other brands.
The product is ideal for softening water in dishwashers made by various brands like Bosch, Miele, Whirlpool, and Thermador.
This product is ideal for improving water quality by reducing hard mineral levels and salt consumption, suitable for drinking, laundry, and dishwashing.
The product is ideal for producing alkaline water with various health benefits such as improved digestion, hydration, and antioxidant properties.
The product is ideal for organizing laundry room and dispensing laundry beads or washing powder to enhance scent.
The product is ideal for replacing humidifier filters in whole house humidifiers, models 350-768.
Ideal for measuring multiple parameters including pH, TDS, EC, salinity, temperature in hydroponics, water, spas, aquariums, and wine.
It is ideal for compatible dishwashers from various brands to improve water quality and reduce lime scale buildup.
This product is ideal for preventing scale build-up in pipes and reducing limescale in a whole house without the use of salt.

1. Softsave40: Nsf Certified Water Softener

The Whirlpool WHES40E water softener is an ideal solution for households with 1-6 plus people. It is designed to remove up to 10 ppm of clear water (ferrous) iron, making it NSF certified to reduce hard water symptoms such as embarrassing stains, build-up on your plumbing and faucets, and spotting on dishes. With its automatic calculation feature, this product determines how much salt and water is required to regenerate and only uses what is necessary. This results in a significant reduction in salt and water usage, making it an environmentally friendly and cost-effective choice for your home. The system comes with a full 1-year parts and labor warranty, and you can extend it to 2 years by purchasing three bottles of Whirlpool WHEWSC water softener cleanser (sold separately). The dimensions of this product are 19" D x 18" W x 47 7/8" H, making it compact and easy to install in any home.

Say goodbye to hard water stains and buildup with the Whirlpool WHES40E water softener. This product is designed to remove up to 10 ppm of clear water (ferrous) iron, making it the perfect solution for households of 1-6 plus people. With its automatic calculation feature, you can be sure that this water softener only uses the necessary amount of salt and water to regenerate, resulting in significant salt and water savings. The product is also NSF certified to reduce hard water symptoms, such as embarrassing stains, buildup on plumbing and faucets, and spotting on dishes. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a full 1-year parts and labor warranty, which can be extended to 2 years by purchasing three bottles of Whirlpool WHEWSC water softener cleanser (sold separately). Measuring 19" D x 18" W x 47 7/8" H, this product is compact and easy to install in any home.

Experience the benefits of soft water with the Whirlpool WHES40E water softener. This product is designed to remove up to 10 ppm of clear water (ferrous) iron, making it NSF certified to reduce hard water symptoms, such as embarrassing stains, buildup on plumbing and faucets, and spotting on dishes. With its automatic calculation feature, this water softener determines the necessary amount of salt and water to regenerate, resulting in significant savings. The product comes with a full 1-year parts and labor warranty, which can be extended to 2 years by purchasing three bottles of Whirlpool WHEWSC water softener cleanser (sold separately). Measuring 19" D x 18" W x 47 7/8" H, this product is compact and easy to install in any home.

Keep your plumbing and faucets free from buildup with the Whirlpool WHES40E water softener. This product is designed to remove up to 10 ppm of clear water (ferrous) iron, making it NSF certified to reduce hard water symptoms, such as embarrassing stains and spotting on dishes. With its automatic calculation feature, this water softener only uses the necessary amount of salt and water to regenerate, resulting in significant salt and water savings. The product comes with a full 1-year parts and labor warranty, which can be extended to 2 years by purchasing three bottles of Whirlpool WHEWSC water softener cleanser (sold separately). Measuring 19" D x 18" W x 47 7/8" H, this product is compact and easy to install in any home.

Pros

  • Removes up to 10 ppm of clear water (ferrous) iron
  • NSF certified to reduce hard water symptoms
  • Automatic calculation feature results in significant salt and water savings
  • Comes with a full 1-year parts and labor warranty
  • Compact size makes it easy to install in any home

Cons

  • – Not suitable for households with more than 6 people
  • – Whirlpool WHEWSC water softener cleanser needs to be purchased separately to extend the warranty

2. Usa-Made Dishwasher Salt Softener For Top Brands

The Absolutely Pure dishwasher salt is a top-quality product that offers pure, coarse-grained salt with no additives. The 5-pound pack of dishwasher salt is just what your dishwasher needs to cut through hard water residue and limescale, leaving your dishes and dishwasher clean and fresh. The salt is highly effective and softens your water for better cleaning results.

This dishwasher salt is compatible with all Miele, Bosch & Whirlpool models requiring salt, including 800 Plus and ADA (SGE). However, it is essential to note that this product is only suitable for dishwashers with water softener containers. The easy-to-use salt is food-grade, non-GMO, and vegan, making it a safe and healthy option for your dishwasher. It contains no caking compounds, iodine, or any other additives.

To use the salt, simply add it to the dishwasher's salt unit and close it. Check the level regularly and refill as necessary. For specific instructions, consult your dishwasher manual, and you're good to go!

Pros

  • Highly effective in cutting through hard water residue and limescale
  • Universally compatible with all Miele, Bosch & Whirlpool models requiring salt
  • Easy to use
  • 100% pure, very coarse grain salt with no additives
  • Food-grade, non-GMO, and vegan

Cons

  • – Only suitable for dishwashers with water softener containers

3. Sparkling Clean Dishes Salt – 2kg

Are you looking for a dishwasher salt that is completely pure and coarse? Absolutely Pure's dishwasher salt is just what you need! Their high-quality salt is specially designed to cut through hard water residue and limescale, leaving your dishwasher and dishes spotless every time.

Not only is their salt highly effective in softening your water, but it is also universally compatible with all Miele, Bosch, and Whirlpool models requiring salt, including 800 Plus and ADA (SGE). It is important to note that this product should only be used with dishwashers that have water softener containers.

Absolutely Pure's dishwasher salt is food-grade, non-GMO and vegan, with no caking compounds, iodine, or any other additives. It is easy to use, simply add salt to the dishwasher's salt unit, and check the level regularly.

If you want a cleaner wash every time, Absolutely Pure's dishwasher salt is the right choice for you. Consult your dishwasher manual for exact, model-specific directions.

Pros

  • Completely pure and coarse grain salt, perfect for dishwashers
  • Highly effective in cutting through hard water residue and limescale
  • Universally compatible with all Miele, Bosch, and Whirlpool models requiring salt, including 800 Plus and ADA (SGE)
  • Food-grade, non-GMO and vegan, with no caking compounds, iodine, or any other additives
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • – Can only be used with dishwashers that have water softener containers

4. Ge Smart Water Softener – Mineral Reduction Solution.

The GE exclusive custom select blending valve is a powerful water softener that allows users to select their preferred level of water softness. With this innovative technology, you can customize the softness of your water to suit your needs. The GE exclusive salt saver also helps reduce salt consumption by up to 34%, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly option for your home. This is based on an internal analysis compared to GE water softeners manufactured prior to 2009. Additionally, the GE exclusive days to empty feature ensures that you never have to guess when it's time to refill the salt tank. You can rest assured that your home's water is properly treated with the self-cleaning sediment filter that protects your plumbing from sediment build-up.

This water softener uses up to 35% less water than GE water softeners manufactured prior to 2009, making it a water-efficient option for your home. This is based on an internal analysis. The GE exclusive custom select blending valve, salt saver, days to empty and sediment filtration features make this water softener a must-have for any homeowner looking for a reliable and efficient solution to hard water problems.

Pros

  • Customizable water softness with GE exclusive custom select blending valve
  • Uses up to 34% less salt with GE exclusive salt saver technology
  • Never guess when to refill salt tank with GE exclusive days to empty feature
  • Self-cleaning sediment filter protects your home's plumbing
  • Uses up to 35% less water than GE water softeners manufactured prior to 2009

5. Aqua Ionizer Deluxe 7.5 Alkaline Water Ionizer

The Aqua Ionizer Pro water ionizer is a great investment for those who want to reduce oxidation in their body and slow the aging process. This machine produces antioxidant-rich alkalized water with a negative ORP that helps to neutralize free radicals. The micro-clustered alkalized water has smaller water clusters that allow the body to absorb water more efficiently, increasing overall hydration. The 7 titanium coated platinum plates are dipped using a proprietary process that guarantees a thickness of 1.2-2 microns. This process prevents plate corrosion and build-up, ensuring that the water produced is safe and contaminant-free. The activated carbon filter removes chlorine and odors while filtering dissolved solids from your source water, cleaning and treating up to 4,000 liters. The machine features 7 healthy water options, including 4 alkaline ionized continuously variable, 1 non-ionized purified, and 2 ionized acidic presets. The variable 4.0 to 11.0 pH range allows you to use the water for cooking, cleaning, cosmetic use, and more!

Pros

  • Produces antioxidant-rich alkalized water with a negative ORP that helps to neutralize free radicals.
  • Micro-clustered alkalized water has smaller water clusters that allow the body to absorb water more efficiently, increasing overall hydration.
  • 7 titanium coated platinum plates are dipped using a proprietary process that guarantees a thickness of 1.2-2 microns, ensuring that the water produced is safe and contaminant-free.
  • Activated carbon filter removes chlorine and odors while filtering dissolved solids from your source water, cleaning and treating up to 4,000 liters.
  • Features 7 healthy water options, including 4 alkaline ionized continuously variable, 1 non-ionized purified, and 2 ionized acidic presets.
  • Variable 4.0 to 11.0 pH range allows you to use the water for cooking, cleaning, cosmetic use, and more!

Cons

  • – Not compatible with well water.

6. Laundry Room Organizer With Scent Boosting Dispenser.

The Laundry Detergent Dispenser is a versatile product that can be used for different purposes. It is perfect for laundry scent boosters, laundry detergent powder, carpet freshener powder, sea salt, rice, and other small solid grains. This product is designed to save space and can be easily installed on any wall in your bath, kitchen, laundry room or other places. This will help you save tabletop space and keep your area clutter-free. The dispenser has been upgraded to address the issue of falling off the wall. The sticker size has been increased up to 50% to provide stronger holding power. You can also use the provided screws to make the sticker fix firmly on any wall surface. Assembly is easy and hassle-free. Simply clean the wall and make sure it's dry. Peel off the protective film on the sticker and stick it to the wall, squeeze out the air inside the sticker, and place the container onto the buckle on the sticker. Avoid areas with high humidity. Please note that the dispenser is not suitable for any liquid form of laundry supplies, oatmeal, or large grain cereals. If you want to dispense any powder form of laundry detergent smoothly, please don't shake the dispenser or compress the powder.

Pros

  • Versatile and can be used for different purposes
  • Saves space and keeps the area clutter-free
  • Easy to install and prevents falling off the wall
  • Comes with an upgraded sticker size for stronger holding power
  • Assembly is easy and hassle-free

Cons

  • – Not suitable for liquid form of laundry supplies, oatmeal, or large grain cereals
  • – Dispenser should not be shaken or compressed when dispensing powder form of laundry detergent

7. Aprilaire Whole House Humidifier Filter Pack (4)

Maintain optimal humidity levels in your home with this genuine replacement water panel. Designed and manufactured in the USA by AprilAire, the leader in indoor air quality solutions, this panel is compatible with AprilAire Humidifier Models: 300, 350, 360, 560, 560A, 568, 600, 600A, 600M, 700, 700A, 700M, 760, 760A, 768. The Model #35 Water Panel measures 10" W x 13" H x 1.75" D and is made of aluminum mesh with a porous, ceramic-type slip coating that absorbs water and maintains the proper level of hydration for the evaporation process.

For optimal performance, it is recommended to replace your genuine AprilAire Whole-Home Humidifier Water Panel annually. This pro 4-pack offers a 4-year supply or convenience for contractors, homes that change their water panel more frequently, or homeowners with multiple furnace humidifiers to maintain. By maintaining optimal humidity in your home of 40% – 60%, you can reduce the incidence of respiratory infections and symptoms related to allergies and asthma by minimizing the formation of bacteria and viruses, fungi, and dust mites. Additionally, you will feel more comfortable while also preserving items in your home susceptible to damage from changing humidity or dry conditions.

Installation is made easy with the illustrated instructions included with the panel. Buy with confidence and enjoy the benefits of a properly functioning AprilAire humidifier with this genuine replacement water panel.

Pros

  • Designed and manufactured in the USA by a leading indoor air quality solutions company
  • Compatible with a wide range of AprilAire Humidifier Models
  • Made of aluminum mesh with a porous, ceramic-type slip coating that absorbs water and maintains the proper level of hydration for the evaporation process
  • Helps maintain optimal humidity levels in your home which can reduce the incidence of respiratory infections and symptoms related to allergies and asthma
  • Easy installation with illustrated instructions included

8. Aero-Gro Waterproof Ph And Tds Meter.

The 5-in-1 pH meter is an all-round water quality measurement tool that ensures consistent results. It can measure pH, TDS, EC (Electrical Conductivity), Salinity %, Salinity ppm, and Temperature with high precision every time. This meter can be used in numerous applications, including measuring TDS, EC, and pH in fresh water situations, and Salinity % and Salinity ppm in saltwater situations, such as saltwater pools, spas, and aquariums. It can also be used to measure drinking water, RO System, spa, soap mixtures, food, wine, beer or any other liquids.

With a solid glass probe, the accurate pH tester can provide a full measurement range of 0-14 pH with 0.01 pH resolution. It uses a 3-point calibration method to ensure maximum accuracy and comes with extra calibration powder. The meter also has fast and accurate TDS/PPM testing for hydroponics or anywhere TDS is critical. The TDS Range is 0~10,000ppm with an accuracy of ±2%. Additionally, it can measure the Electrical Conductivity of either fresh or saltwater.

Conveniently and easily keep track of saline levels by either percentage or ppm, making it ideal for aquariums, saltwater pools, saltwater spas, or anywhere salt levels are critical. The pH meter auto-calibrates to the sample liquid temperature, which guarantees accuracy regardless of temperature. The compact, pocket-sized meter is IP67 waterproof, making it easy to carry and use without fear of getting wet. The meter also includes a storage case for added convenience.

Aero-Gro is a family-owned business located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, and provides USA customer support. They proudly stand behind every product they sell and provide a growing library of how-to videos and other valuable resources on the Aero-Gro website.

Pros

  • Accurate measurement of pH, TDS, EC, Salinity %, Salinity ppm, and Temperature.
  • Solid glass probe with 3-point calibration for maximum accuracy.
  • Fast and accurate TDS/PPM testing for hydroponics or anywhere TDS is critical.
  • Measures Electrical Conductivity of either fresh or saltwater.
  • Conveniently and easily keep track of saline levels by either percentage or ppm.
  • Auto-calibrates to the sample liquid temperature, which guarantees accuracy regardless of temperature.
  • Compact and waterproof with a storage case for added convenience.
  • USA customer support with how-to videos and other valuable resources on the Aero-Gro website.

9. Depurel Dishwasher Salt – Tackle Tough Stains!

DEPUREL is a high-quality Italian dishwasher salt that comes in coarse crystal form with no additives. It is 100% pure food grade coarse salt that is compatible with all Miele, Bosch, Whirlpool, and Thermador models. Please note that this salt can only be used with dishwashers that have water softener containers.

DEPUREL is a food-grade salt that does not contain any anti-caking compounds, iodine, or other additives. To use, add the salt to the dishwasher's salt unit and close it. Check the level of salt and refill it as necessary. For specific instructions, please refer to your dishwasher manual.

Pros

  • 100% pure food grade coarse salt
  • Compatible with all Miele, Bosch, Whirlpool, and Thermador models
  • Food-grade salt with no additives
  • Coarse crystal form
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • – Can only be used with dishwashers that have water softener containers

10. Scaleblitz – Salt-Free Water Descaler For The Home

Moosec Water Descaler is a physical water treatment system that uses electrical pulses to change the crystal structure of calcium carbonate and prevent it from forming scale in pipes. This helps to prevent pipeline blockage, surface darkening, mechanical failure, high heating cost, high cleaning cost, and corrosion caused by pipeline corrosion. The device is easy to install and can be placed vertically, horizontally, or at any other angle. It can be installed on the main pipe or distributor pipe. Moosec Water Descaler also comes with reliable customer service that is available 24/7 to assist customers.

Water contains calcium, magnesium ions, etc. which can easily combine with acid radicals to form precipitation of calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate. This can lead to the formation of scale in pipes which can pose a health risk to people. Moosec Water Descaler helps to prevent this by changing the crystal structure of calcium carbonate to make it no longer attach to the inside of the tube to form scale. This ensures a healthier water supply for people.

Moosec Water Descaler provides an easy and effective solution to water scaling problems. With its reliable customer service and easy installation process, customers can enjoy a healthier and more cost-effective water supply.

Pros

  • Prevents pipeline blockage, surface darkening, mechanical failure, high heating cost, high cleaning cost, and corrosion caused by pipeline corrosion
  • Changes the crystal structure of calcium carbonate to prevent scaling in pipes
  • Can be installed vertically, horizontally, or at any other angle on the main pipe or distributor pipe
  • Provides 24/7 customer service for customer support

Best Salt To Use For Water Softener FAQs

Are there any alternatives to using salt in a water softener?

Yes, there are several alternatives to using salt in a water softener. One alternative is to use potassium chloride instead of salt. While it is more expensive than salt, it is a good option for those who are concerned about the environmental impact of using salt. Another option is to use a water softener that does not require salt or potassium chloride, such as a magnetic or electronic water softener. These types of water softeners use electromagnetic fields to alter the properties of the water, which can help reduce the buildup of minerals that cause hard water. However, some experts question the effectiveness of these types of water softeners. Another option is to use a water conditioner or descaler, which can help reduce the buildup of minerals in the water without the use of salt or potassium chloride. Ultimately, the choice of which alternative to use will depend on a variety of factors, including personal preference, budget, and the specific needs of the household.

Can I use rock salt in my water softener?

Rock salt can be used in a water softener, but it is not recommended. Rock salt may contain impurities that can potentially harm your water softener system, and may cause damage to the resin bed. The impurities can clog the resin bed, reducing its efficiency and lifespan. Moreover, rock salt can leave residue in your pipes and appliances, which can lead to corrosion and other issues.

It is recommended to use water softener salt made specifically for water softeners. These salts are free of impurities and have a high purity level to ensure maximum efficiency and longevity of the system. Water softener salt is available in different forms, including pellets, crystals, and blocks. Choosing the right type of salt depends on your water softener system, water hardness, and personal preference.

In conclusion, while rock salt may seem like a cheaper alternative, it is not worth the potential harm it can cause to your water softener. Opt for water softener salt made for the purpose to ensure maximum efficiency and longevity of your system.

How often should I add salt to my water softener?

As a general rule of thumb, you should add salt to your water softener tank at least once a month. However, the frequency may vary depending on the size of the tank, the household's water usage, and the level of water hardness in your area. It's essential to keep an eye on the salt level in your water softener tank and refill it as needed.

A water softener works by using salt to remove minerals like calcium and magnesium from hard water. When the salt in the tank runs low, the water softener may not be able to function correctly, leading to hard water issues. Adding salt to your water softener tank is a straightforward process that shouldn't take more than a few minutes.

If you're unsure about how often you should add salt to your water softener or any other concerns, it's always best to consult the manufacturer's instructions or a professional plumber. Regular maintenance of your water softener can help ensure it functions correctly, prolong its lifespan, and save you money in the long run.

What is the difference between coarse and fine salt for water softeners?

Coarse and fine salt are two types of salt that can be used in water softeners. The main difference between them lies in their particle size. Coarse salt has larger particles than fine salt, which makes it dissolve more slowly in water. Fine salt, on the other hand, has smaller particles that dissolve quickly and easily.

When it comes to using salt in water softeners, both coarse and fine salt can be effective. However, some people prefer one type over the other for various reasons. For example, if you have a water softener that requires salt pellets, you may prefer to use coarse salt because it can be easier to handle and pour into the machine. Fine salt, on the other hand, may be preferred for systems that require salt crystals, as it dissolves more quickly and is less likely to clog the machine.

Ultimately, the choice between coarse and fine salt for water softeners comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your machine. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and choose a high-quality salt product to ensure the best results for your home's water softening needs.

What type of salt is best for a water softener?

The type of salt that is best for a water softener is pure evaporated salt. This salt is created through a process of evaporation and is free of any impurities that can cause build-up in your water softener. It is also more soluble than other types of salt, which means it dissolves more easily and efficiently in your water softener tank. Although rock salt and solar salt can be used in water softeners, they have higher levels of impurities that can lead to increased maintenance and repair costs over time. Pure evaporated salt is also recommended by most water softener manufacturers as the best option for maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your water softener system. So, if you want to ensure that your water softener is functioning at its best, it's important to use high-quality pure evaporated salt.

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