Many people use salt only for cooking, but experienced homeowners say this common kitchen ingredient may help solve several annoying bathroom problems.

Recently, a simple household trick has gone viral online: pouring salt into the toilet bowl before going to sleep.

Cleaning experts explain that salt may reduce unpleasant odors, absorb moisture, loosen pipe buildup, and slow bacterial growth.

Because toilets constantly stay wet, they can easily develop bad smells, stains, mineral buildup, and bacteria over time.

Many homeowners say salt helps freshen the toilet naturally without relying heavily on harsh chemical cleaners.

The popular method involves pouring about half a cup of salt directly into the bowl before bed and leaving it overnight.

Some people also combine the kitchen ingredient with warm water, baking soda, or vinegar for stronger cleaning effects.

The next morning, users simply flush the toilet and claim the bowl appears cleaner, fresher, and significantly less smelly.

However, plumbing specialists warn that salt alone will not completely disinfect a toilet, remove severe blockages, or fix major plumbing problems.

Ultimately, the trick became popular because salt is incredibly cheap, easy to find, and already available in almost every home.