As shoppers who bought large quantities of table salt struggle to get refunds from supermarkets, METRO trawled the Web for tips on alternative uses:

Good for cleaning: Mixed with water, salt can help get stains off coffee pots, carpets and shirts. Add a little vinegar to clean your brass, copper and pewter ornaments.

Flower power: Spreading salt on a lawn is said to kill weeds, while adding a little to water holding cut flowers may help them live a little longer.

Hygiene: A small amount of salt in water makes for an effective mouthwash and could even ease a sore throat, although be careful as too much can be hazardous.

Car care: When the windscreen and other windows are wet, rub them a small cloth bag of salt and in cold weather they will be clear of ice or snow.

Fact or fantasy: While some claim salt makes water boil faster, others say it actually makes it slower.