What Is Silica Gel?

Last updated on Apr 25, 2022
Val Goodrich

Silica gel is a mixture of water and silica (a common mineral found in sand, quartz, granite, and other minerals) that forms into tiny pellets when combined. Silica gel is a type of desiccant that holds water vapor at its surface instead of fully absorbing it. Each silica bead has thousands of tiny pores that retain moisture, making silica gel packets perfect for placing in boxes with products to control humidity.

StripPax Silica Packet

What Is Silica Gel Used For?

Silica gel is used for controlling humidity, making it a great addition to product boxes that are being shipped to customers. Some examples that should have silica gel packets included in their box prior to shipping are the following:

  • Electronics
  • Clothing
  • Leather
  • Vitamins
  • Cat litter
  • Paper
  • Food and baked goods

People also use silica gel packets to dry flowers or prevent rust from forming on tools!

Where to Buy Silica Gel

Silica gel packets can be purchased at home improvement stores or from specialty online retailers.

Shop All Silica Gel Packets
NatraSorb Silica Packet

How Does Silica Gel Work?

Silica gel’s natural adsorbing properties hold water molecules to its surface. Silica is covered in millions of tiny pores that retain about 40% of its weight in moisture, reducing the humidity in a closed container.

Is Silica Gel Poisonous?

Silica gel is not safe to eat. If silica gel is placed in the mouth, spit beads out immediately. If swallowed, it’s best to go to an emergency room just in case. Not all silica gels are created equal, and some have a toxic coating called “cobalt chloride”. This chemical can cause abdominal pain and vomiting.

Silica gel packets are a choking hazard for small children, so store unused packets in a secure area.

How Much Silica Gel to Use

When considering how many silica gel packets to put in your container, a good estimation to use is 1.2 units of silica gel packets for every 1 cubic foot of volume in the space of your box. There are other considerations to take into account as well, such as the materials being shipped, how long the products need to be protected, and the climate of where your product is being shipped.

StripPax Silica Packet

Is Silica Gel Safe for Food Storage?

Yes, food-grade silica gel packets are safe for food storage. Silica gel removes excess moisture, making it great for use in your spice drawer and in packets of seaweed, dried fruit, or jerky. It's also great for potato, garlic, and onion storage drawers to slow down sprouting.


Silica gel packets are extremely beneficial for shipping products like food, tools, clothing, and so many other materials. Next time you are worried about maintaining the integrity of your product from your warehouse to a customer’s front door, consider using high-quality shipping materials and adding silica gel packets to your boxes!


The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. Please refer to our Content Policy for more details.
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