Most people wouldn’t think to keep a glass of table salt in their car. Salt belongs in the kitchen, right? That’s what I thought until a police officer handed me one on a freezing morning—a simple but incredibly handy tool for winter driving.

The roads were icy and slick, and after my tires started spinning, the officer pulled over to check on me. He leaned in and said, “Keep a glass of salt in your car. It sounds old-fashioned, but it works.” Salt melts just enough ice under your tires to give them traction—the same principle road crews use, but in a small, handy dose.

He also shared a tip about mixing salt with water to wipe your windshield before a frost. It prevents thick ice from forming overnight, making scraping much easier. I’d never heard that before and made a note to try it.

Salt’s uses didn’t stop there. As a natural desiccant, an open jar in your car absorbs moisture and odors—perfect for masking spills or musty smells. Just be sure to keep it sealed and within reach to avoid a salty mess in your car.

If you live where ice rules the winter, mix salt with sand for both melting power and traction. It can also thaw frozen locks or door seals with a quick pinch and splash of saltwater.

The first time I tried it, I was stuck on hidden ice in a parking spot. A sprinkle of salt under my tires and a moment’s wait freed me easily. Another time, wiping the windshield with saltwater made my morning scrape quick and painless. The open jar dulled lingering odors too.

Salt won’t replace snow tires or careful driving, but it’s a cheap, simple hack that turns small winter hassles into manageable moments. I’ve shared this tip with many, and it’s always been a lifesaver.

So this winter, add a sealed glass of salt to your car. You might never need it, but if you do, you’ll be glad you have it.