Household hints were often printed in the local newspapers. The following account was printed in the Bromley & District Time in 1917:
Every housewife should realise the possibilities of salt as a cleanser. Indeed, salt and paraffin should be in the cleansing outfit of every householder, for together they form a combination which eradicates almost any dirt.
For polishing mirrors nothing can exceed the merit of salt. When applying it the glass must be wet with clear water, then the salt rubbed on with a damp newspaper. The final rubbing may be done with dry newspapers or with a chamois skin.
A tablespoon of coarse salt, a teaspoonful of ammonia, and a pint of hot water mixed and kept for rinsing decanters and carafes will make them as bright as new.
Silver discoloured either by egg or other use will respond at once to a vigorous rubbing of damp salt. Salt and vinegar combined will usually restore polish to brass and copper, and salt is a wonderful renovator of polished wood surfaces that have been dulled with hot dishes.
To brighten such spots, cover the grey portions with salt, which is then wet with olive oil, all of the latter being poured on that the salt will absorb. This should stand for twenty-four hours, when it should be removed and the surface rubbed with a soft cloth. If all greyness has not disappeared repeat the salt and oil bath.
For removing discolorations of fruit from teeth or hands salt is excellent
