Rock solid soda crystals

hotcookie101

I have 3 bags of soda crystals (unopened) in cupboard. 2 of these bags are solid, like a rock, one feels normal still-crystal like

Now from experience when they get hard I haven't been able to get them back into crystal form, to use for laundry, or even to get down drain, but was wondering if any of you know if they can be salvaged?
This lot is a single solid block in the shape of 1kg bag, couldn't stick whole in machine as would kill the drum, and even if I stuck it down the outside drain-it wouldnt actually fit! At least they are cheap if I need to chuck em :rolleyes:

anna_conda

I use a hammer! Don't laugh, I do. Takes some effort (leave it in the bag to do it) This happens with every bag I buy, so I wonder if anyone knows how to stop it?

Justamum

hotcookie101 wrote: »

I have 3 bags of soda crystals (unopened) in cupboard. 2 of these bags are solid, like a rock, one feels normal still-crystal like

Now from experience when they get hard I haven't been able to get them back into crystal form, to use for laundry, or even to get down drain, but was wondering if any of you know if they can be salvaged?
This lot is a single solid block in the shape of 1kg bag, couldn't stick whole in machine as would kill the drum, and even if I stuck it down the outside drain-it wouldnt actually fit! At least they are cheap if I need to chuck em :rolleyes:

I've never had this problem with unopened bags - but when I open a bag I pour it into a click lock container which I got from Wilkinsons (one of the tall ones - about 1.8l size I think it is). I've never had a problem with the crystals going hard since I started doing this.

I'd bash it like anna_conda says - but be careful or you might burst the bag open! :eek:

sassyblue

I use the click lock tubs too but still get them going hard occasionally, you know those little bags of silica gel you get? I put some packets of those in the container, it slows it down setting rock hard and l jsut give it a shake every few days.

I don't buy soda crystals to store because of this problem... oh yes l'd hammer them too!

squidgeworth

I've no better sugestions than the hammer but I store soda crystals in a (well washed & dried ) old milk carton, the type with a screw on lid. It keeps them dry and is sooo much easier to pour out that the bags.

nuttybabe

I smash mine against the floor, was the wall but I chipped the plaster (dh not noticed yet!!!).

[Deleted User]

I'm with the other posters take it to your garden find a sturdy tray put the soda crystals on it and give it some welly with a hammer.It will break down into manageble pieces

narabanekeater

Im wondering if anyone can please tell me how to soften up my bag of soda
Im trying to use a small amount in my washing machine to give it a hot 'clean out' wash but the bag of soda is rock solid
Many Thanks

AlwaysAllie

Pop them in two or three carrier bags (in case one splits) and bash them with a hammer?

AA

Justamum

I find this happens if I keep them in the bag once I've opened it. I've got one of those click lock tubs (the tallish 1.8litre one) and I've had no problem with them since.

funkymonkey849

I usually bash the bag against the counter