Top Rated Best Water Softener Salt 2024

Discover the top-rated and most effective best water softener salt for your home water treatment needs. Our experts have reviewed and compiled a list of the best options to help you achieve optimal water quality.

This guide provides comprehensive information on the best water softener salt options. It offers expert buying advice and in-depth insights into how to eliminate hardness minerals from your water for better hair, skin, and dishes. Selecting the right water softener salt is essential for ensuring you have great-tasting water, scale-free pipes, and minimal maintenance of your softener. By using the proper type of salt in your system, you can also reduce the need for regular descaling of water purification appliances. We’ll discuss how to choose a suitable water softener salt that meets all these requirements.

If there is confirmed iron in your water, Morton Clean & Protect Rust Defense is the best water softener salt to use for iron removal. It’s effective and economical, plus it can be purchased in bulk for additional savings. Plus, this product is readily available in stores so you won’t need to go far to find it.

If you’re not sure which Morton product to use, then Morton Clean & Protect is the ideal choice. This all-purpose cleaner helps protect surfaces from future dirt and grime buildup while also providing a deep clean for your home or business.

Main Topics of This Article

Selection of Best Water Softener Salt

Morton Clean & Protect Rust Defense (Best Water Softener Salt of High Iron)

Morton Clean & Protect Rust Defense is a great product for removing rust from metal surfaces. It’s easy to use and provides long-lasting protection against corrosion, making it an ideal choice for those looking to keep their iron fixtures free of rust.
If you’re looking for the best water softener salt to tackle iron-laced hard water, then Morton’s Clean & Protect Rust Defense is your go-to option. This product has all of the same features as their standard softener salt, but also includes a special additive that helps prevent rust and iron staining from occurring.

Product Specification

• Item Weight 40 pounds
• Manufacturer Morton Salt Co.
• Product Dimension 19X13X4 Inches
• Color Plan
• Type of Compound Evaporated Salt Pellets
• Usage 2 Bags per month

Reviews

• I was extremely satisfied with the delivery. Due to their weight, I had not to rely on someone else for assistance. The service was excellent; they delivered two or three days before expected, so there were no issues at all.
• This salt is superior to other brands and helps maintain a clean brine tank, resulting in consistently soft water.
• This product is simple to use and effectively softens hard water. It’s the perfect solution for those looking to make their water more pleasant and safe to drink.
• This is a much cleaner salt than that supplied by other providers.
• This product makes water taste great! I tried it out on March 20, 2023 in the United States and was very pleased with the results. It’s a must-have for anyone looking to improve their drinking experience.

Pros of Morton Clean & Protect Rust Defense:

1. Rust Protection: One of the main advantages of this product is its rust defense feature. It may include special additives that help prevent and remove rust stains caused by iron in the water, keeping your fixtures and water purification appliances cleaner.
2. Water Softening: Like other water softener salt, Morton Clean & Protect Rust Defense is designed to effectively soften hard water, reducing mineral buildup in plumbing systems and appliances.
3. Cleaner Dishes and Laundry: The use of this water softener salt may lead to cleaner dishes and laundry, as softened water can enhance the effectiveness of soaps and detergents.
4. Easy to Use: Water softener salt is typically easy to use and can be added to the brine tank with minimal effort.

Cons of Morton Clean & Protect Rust Defense:

Compatibility: Some water softeners may require specific types of salt, so it’s essential to ensure that Morton Clean & Protect Rust Defense is compatible with your water softener model.

Morton Clean & Protect (Best Water Softener Salt–2 pack-Best Overall)

Morton Clean & Protect is the ideal product for treating water with no iron content. This powerful formula cleans and protects your plumbing system, eliminating any build-up of sediment or other impurities that can cause corrosion over time. With regular use, you can ensure a clean source of water in your home without having to worry about rust or discoloration.

Product Specification

• Item Weight 80 pounds
• Manufacturer Morton Salt Co.
• Product Dimension 22X14X4 Inches
• Color Clean
• Type of Compound Evaporated Salt Pellets
• Usage 2-4 Bags per month

Reviews

• None of our salt shakers were large enough to hold these pellets, so we had no choice but to put them in our water softener. Fortunately, they seem to be working just fine there.
• After using this product for a month, I can confidently say that it works well in my water system. It has improved the quality of my water and I’m very pleased with the results.
• Our water softener arrived in great condition, thanks to the superb packing and delivery by FedEX.
• I appreciate having this product delivered due to its weight. This vendor provided a reliable service and the item arrived undamaged.
• Shopping for salt has never been easier! With door-to-door delivery, you don’t have to worry about running out of stock or settling for crystals instead of pellets. All you have to do is point and click – your order will arrive at your doorstep in no time. It’s that simple and convenient – what could be better?

Pros of Morton Clean & Protect:

1. Effective Water Softening: Morton Clean & Protect is designed to effectively soften hard water, preventing mineral buildup in plumbing systems and water purification appliances, and enhancing the effectiveness of soaps and detergents.
2. Additional Benefits: Depending on the specific formulation, Clean & Protect may offer additional benefits such as rust protection, iron removal, or stain prevention, providing comprehensive water treatment.
3. Reputable Brand: Morton is a well-established brand known for producing high-quality water softener salt products.
4. Convenient Packaging: Morton Clean & Protect is typically available in various packaging sizes, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their needs and storage space.

Cons of Morton Clean & Protect:

Effectiveness May Vary: The effectiveness of added features, such as rust protection or stain prevention, may vary depending on the specific water conditions in your area.

Diamond Crystal Solar Naturals (Best Water Softener Salt–Runner Up Natural Salt)

Diamond Crystal Solar Naturals is a leading provider of solar salt, offering the highest quality product on the market. Their solar salt is perfect for water softening and other applications, providing superior performance with no added chemicals. With their dedication to customer satisfaction and commitment to sustainability, Diamond Crystal Solar Naturals stands out as one of the best sources for your solar salt needs.

Product Specification

• Item Weight 50 pounds
• Manufacturer ‎Cargill Salt – Water Softeners
• Product Dimension 21X14X5 Inches
• Color White, Opaque
• Type of Compound Evaporated Salt Pellets
• Usage 2-4 Bags per month

Reviews

• None of our salt shakers were large enough to hold these pellets, so we had no choice but to put them in our water softener. Fortunately, they seem to be working just fine there.
• After using this product for a month, I can confidently say that it works well in my water system. It has improved the quality of my water and I’m very pleased with the results.
• Our water softener arrived in great condition, thanks to the superb packing and delivery by FedEx.
• I appreciate having this product delivered due to its weight. This vendor provided a reliable service and the item arrived undamaged.
• Shopping for salt has never been easier! With door-to-door delivery, you don’t have to worry about running out of stock or settling for crystals instead of pellets. All you have to do is point and click – your order will arrive at your doorstep in no time. It’s that simple and convenient – what could be better?

Pros of Diamond Crystal Solar Naturals:

1. Cost-Effective: Solar salt, including Diamond Crystal Solar Naturals, is often more affordable compared to other types of water softener salt like evaporated salt.
2. Effective Water Softening: Solar salt effectively removes hardness minerals like calcium and magnesium from water, preventing scale buildup in plumbing systems and water purification appliances.
3. Environmentally Friendly: Solar salt is typically obtained through the natural evaporation of seawater or brine, which can be considered a more environmentally friendly process compared to mining or other extraction methods.
4. Readily Available: Solar salt is widely available and comes in various forms, such as pellets, crystals, and blocks.
5. Suitable for General Use: Diamond Crystal Solar Naturals is generally suitable for standard household water softening needs.

Cons of Diamond Crystal Solar Naturals:

Slower Dissolution: Depending on the specific form of solar salt used, it may dissolve more slowly than other types of salt like evaporated salt pellets. Slower dissolution can result in longer regeneration cycles and potentially affect the overall efficiency of the water softener.

Diamond Crystal Iron Fighter (Best Water Softener Salt– Iron Fighter)

Diamond Crystal Iron Fighter is an excellent alternative for those looking to remove iron from their water. Formulated for use where iron content in water is high. This product has been rigorously tested and proven effective in removing iron, making it a great choice for anyone wanting the best quality of drinking water possible. We’ll go over why this product stands out amongst its competitors so you can make an informed decision when choosing your own iron-removal solution.

Product Specification

• Item Weight 40 pounds
• Manufacturer ‎CAI – DIAMOND CRYSTAL
• Product Dimension 24X16X4 Inches
• Color White
• Type of Compound Salt Pellets
• Usage 2-4 Bags per month

Reviews

• This product is a great solution for dealing with iron and calcium buildup in water. It has eliminated scale from my new stainless steel water purification appliances, which would otherwise have become obstructed or stained. Shipping costs may be high if you can’t lug 40lb bags yourself, but it’s worth the cost to prevent damage to piping and appliances at an affordable monthly rate.
• This product works well for my water with its high iron content, and it really does the trick. The only downside is that it’s quite expensive on Amazon; I’m looking into other alternative options.
• I was surprised to discover that our water contained enough iron to make a difference. Fortunately, this resolved any issues we had.

Pros of Diamond Crystal Iron Fighter:

1. Iron and Rust Stain Prevention: Diamond Crystal Iron Fighter is specifically formulated to help prevent iron and rust stains on surfaces, fixtures, and laundry. It can be particularly beneficial if you have high iron content in your water.
2. Water Softening: Like other water softener salt, Diamond Crystal Iron Fighter is designed to soften hard water, reducing mineral buildup in plumbing systems and appliances.
3. Extended Appliance Lifespan: By reducing iron buildup and preventing rust stains, Diamond Crystal Iron Fighter may help extend the lifespan of appliances and plumbing fixtures that come into contact with water.
4. Convenient Packaging: The product is available in various packaging sizes, allowing you to choose the right amount for your water softener system and storage space.

Cons of Diamond Crystal Iron Fighter:

Iron Concentrations: While Diamond Crystal Iron Fighter can help prevent iron stains, it may have limitations in treating water with very high iron concentrations. In severe cases, additional water treatment methods might be necessary.

Diamond Crystal Bright & Soft (Best Water Softener Salt–Great High Purity Salt)

Diamond Crystal Bright & Soft is an excellent alternative for those looking to enjoy water without iron. This product offers superior clarity and softness, leaving you with a refreshing experience every time. Find out more about this unique option and why it may be the right choice for your needs.

Product Specification

• Item Weight 40 pounds
• Manufacturer Diamond Collection
• Product Dimension 22X15X3.5 Inches
• Color White
• Type of Compound Sodium Chloride 
• Usage 1 Bag per month

Reviews

• Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your water purification appliances, pipes and fixtures. By taking care of these items on a regular basis, you can ensure that they last longer and remain in good condition for years to come. This article will provide tips on how to maintain your home’s major components so you get the most out of them.
• This product contains up to 99.8% pure salt, making it ideal for a variety of culinary and industrial applications. With its high purity level, this salt is perfect for adding flavor to dishes or helping with the manufacturing process in various industries.
• Compacted pellets have been specially formulated to prevent mushing and bridging, providing a more consistent product flow. These pellets are ideal for applications where clumping or caking is an issue, such as in food production lines.

Pros of Diamond Crystal Bright & Soft:

1. Water Softening: Like other water softener salt, Diamond Crystal Bright & Soft is designed to effectively soften hard water, preventing mineral buildup in plumbing systems and appliances.
2. Brighter Fabrics: Some water softener salt, including Diamond Crystal Bright & Soft, may include additives that help keep fabrics brighter by preventing mineral staining and discoloration during laundering.
3. Cleaner Dishes and Appliances: Softened water can lead to cleaner dishes, as well as fewer spots and streaks on glassware and dishes. It can also help extend the lifespan of appliances by reducing scale buildup.
4. Easier Cleaning: Softened water can make cleaning tasks easier by reducing soap scum and mineral deposits on surfaces.
5. Convenient Packaging: Diamond Crystal Bright & Soft is typically available in various packaging sizes to suit different needs and storage spaces.

Cons of Diamond Crystal Bright & Soft:

Environmental Impact: Some water softener salt may contain additives that could have environmental impacts, especially if not disposed of properly. It’s essential to follow recommended disposal guidelines and consider eco-friendly options.

Morton Pure and Natural (Best Water Softener Salt– Natural Salt)

The Morton Pure and Natural is our top pick for the best natural water softener salt. This premium product uses all-natural, high-purity salt crystals that are free from additives, making it a great choice for those who want to use only the purest, cleanest water softener salt. Morton Pure and Natural

Product Specification

• Item Weight 40 pounds
• Manufacturer Morton Salt Co.
• Product Dimension 25X12X3.5 Inches
• Color White
• Type of Compound High-purity salt crystals 
• Usage 3-4 Bags per month

Reviews

• This product is an ideal choice for your soft water conditioner, providing plenty of lather while you shower and leaving your hair feeling soft and looking shiny.
• These are crystals, not tablets. They resemble rock salt and can be used with water softener systems. With these crystals, you’ll have the power to effectively soften hard water in your home or business.
• To keep your water treatment system running smoothly, the manufacturer recommends using Morton Solar Salt in a 40-pound bag every three months. This will help ensure that your water remains clean and free of contaminants for optimal performance.

Pros of Morton Pure and Natural:

1. Purity: As the name suggests, Morton Pure and Natural water softener salt is typically advertised as being free of additives or additional substances, providing a straightforward solution for water softening.
2. Water Softening: Like other water softener salt, Morton Pure and Natural is designed to effectively soften hard water, preventing mineral buildup in plumbing systems and water purification appliances.
3. Reduced Residue: Being a pure salt without additives, Morton Pure and Natural may produce less residue in the brine tank compared to some other water softener salt, reducing the need for frequent cleaning and maintenance.
4. Suitable for General Use: Morton Pure and Natural is usually suitable for standard household water softening needs.

Cons of Morton Pure and Natural:

Water Softening Efficiency: The water softening efficiency of Morton Pure and Natural may vary based on factors such as water hardness and the specific water softener system being used.

Morton Potassium Chloride Pellets (Best Water Softener Salt–Potassium Chloride)

We believe Morton Potassium Chloride Pellets are the best water softening salt alternative for ion exchange water purification appliances. These pellets contain at least 98.1% potassium chloride, making them ideal for those on low-sodium diets. Additionally, you get all the benefits of a Morton product – exceptional quality and 100% satisfaction guaranteed. Morton Potassium Chloride Pellets

Product Specification

• Item Weight 40 pounds
• Manufacturer Morton Salt Co.
• Product Dimension 22X13X4.5 Inches
• Color White
• Type of Compound High-purity salt crystals 
• Usage 2-4 Bags per month

Reviews

• After transitioning from Sodium Chloride to Potassium Chloride, I have noticed a dramatic improvement in the softness of my shower water. Not only that, but using Potassium Chloride is much better for the environment than its sodium counterpart.
• Morton potassium chloride is the only brand of water softener salt that won’t damage your unit or plumbing. Unfortunately, due to high inflation, it’s becoming harder and harder to find in big box stores as they are stocking inferior products instead. Amazon was one of two places where we were able to find Morton at a reasonable price – although significantly more expensive than before – but still cheaper than replacing fixtures, heaters and other equipment damaged by low-quality salt.
• I was delighted to find a product that is nearly identical to the licorice I used to buy from Kroger, QFC, and Dillons in their produce section – it appears they don’t sell them anymore. Many thanks for providing this great replacement!

Pros of Morton Potassium Chloride Pellets:

1. Lower Sodium Intake: One of the primary benefits of using potassium chloride pellets is that they provide an alternative to sodium-based water softener salt. This can be advantageous for individuals who are concerned about sodium intake due to dietary restrictions or health conditions.
2. Environmentally Friendly: Potassium chloride is generally considered more environmentally friendly than sodium-based salt, as it introduces less sodium into the water supply and soil. This can be particularly important for areas with strict environmental regulations.
3. Health Considerations: Potassium chloride is a source of dietary potassium, which can be beneficial for individuals who need to increase their potassium intake. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before relying on water softener salt as a significant source of potassium.

Cons of Morton Potassium Chloride Pellets:

Availability: Depending on your location, potassium chloride pellets may be less readily available compared to traditional sodium-based water softener salt.

Nature’s Own Potassium Solution (Best Water Softener Salt–Runner Up Potassium Chloride)

Nature’s Own Potassium Solution is our runner-up choice for potassium chloride softening. This salt-free solution comes from Nature’s Own Water Care, a subsidiary of the international company Compass Minerals. With this product, you can enjoy all the benefits of softened water without any added sodium or other salt.

Product Specification

• Item Weight 40 pounds
• Manufacturer ‎COMPASS MINERALS
• Product Dimension 14X40X6 Inches
• Color White Granules
• Type of Compound Potassium chloride 
• Usage 2-4 Bags per month

Reviews

• I have been using this product for years and it works wonderfully. It does not need to be changed out nearly as often as regular salt, making it a great choice.
• We must use the “Potassium” water softener setting on our Eco water System unit. This setting is essential for ensuring that your drinking and bathing water are free from hard minerals, providing you with a more comfortable experience.
• I have been using a Culligan water purification appliances for several years, and it has completely solved the issues we were facing with our previous system. We had problems like bridging in the brine tank that this product fixed right away. Although it is pricier than other options, it’s gentler on plants and doesn’t leave behind any slimy feeling from salt residue.

Pros of Potassium Solution for Water Softening:

1. Reduced Sodium Intake: Potassium chloride is an alternative to traditional sodium-based water softener salt, which can be beneficial for individuals who are concerned about sodium intake or have health conditions that require lower sodium consumption.
2. Environmental Considerations: Using potassium chloride instead of sodium-based salt may introduce fewer sodium ions into the water supply and the environment, which can be more environmentally friendly.
3. Health Benefits: Potassium is an essential mineral that can provide certain health benefits, such as supporting proper muscle and nerve function and helping to balance fluid levels in the body.
4. Compatibility: Potassium solutions are generally compatible with water softeners designed for use with sodium-based salt.

Cons of Potassium Solution for Water Softening:

Availability: Depending on your location, potassium chloride solution might be less readily available compared to traditional sodium-based water softener salt.

Diamond Crystal Potassium Chloride (Best Water Softener Salt–Salt Alternative )

Diamond Crystal® Water Softener Potassium Chloride is a low-sodium alternative to traditional water softener salt. With 99.1% pure potassium chloride and low insoluble content, these crystals are ideal for all types of water purification appliances so you can enjoy the benefits of softer water without worrying about excess sodium intake.
Potassium Chloride functions similarly to traditional water softener salt (sodium chloride) in that it helps replace hard water minerals. The key difference is that potassium replaces sodium, rather than the other way around. With this information, you can make an educated decision on which type of salt works best for your needs.

Product Specification

• Item Weight 40 pounds
• Manufacturer ‎Diamond Crystal
• Product Dimension 30X16X4.25 Inches
• Color White
• Type of Compound Potassium Chloride
• Usage 1 Bags per month

Reviews

• After doing my research, I chose potassium over salt as an additive for my water softener system. Salt can be damaging to plants and animals, so opting for a product with the least amount of salt was essential. So far, this product has been working perfectly – plus it gets delivered right to my door which saves me from lugging heavy bags around! Opening up the bags is also very easy. All in all, I’m happy with this purchase and will definitely order again from this company.
• I was delighted to find this product on Amazon since my local store didn’t have any available when I needed it. The water feels great and has no salty taste, plus the boxes arrived a little banged up but that had no effect on the softener bags inside. This is a great product and I will definitely be ordering again!
• This product effectively filters water, leaving it free of saltiness and any other unpleasant taste.
• Using a freshwater lake or recycled water system is an environmentally more acceptable solution and can also help reduce the strain on plumbing.
• When you need to reorder, it can be a hassle. In this article, we’ll look at some tips and tricks for making the process easier so that you don’t have to worry about running out of supplies or products again.

Pros of Diamond Crystal Potassium Chloride:

1. Low Sodium Alternative: Diamond Crystal Potassium Chloride offers a low-sodium alternative for water softening compared to traditional sodium-based water softener salt. This can be beneficial for individuals with sodium-related health concerns.
2. Environmentally Friendly: Using potassium chloride in your water softener introduces less sodium into the water supply and the environment, which can be a more eco-friendly choice.
3. Health Considerations: For individuals with specific health conditions that require potassium intake, using potassium chloride in the water softener can contribute to their potassium needs.
4. Effective Water Softening: Diamond Crystal Potassium Chloride effectively softens water by exchanging calcium and magnesium ions for potassium ions, reducing water hardness and preventing scale buildup.

Cons of Diamond Crystal Potassium Chloride:

Potential for Potassium Buildup: If you have specific health conditions that require potassium restriction, using potassium chloride in the water softener might introduce more potassium into the water supply than desired.

Precaution Note

When considering salt for your water softener, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines for using salt in your specific water softener model.

As a homeowner, it is essential to prioritize the quality of water softener salt in order to maximize the efficiency of your system. When searching for the best water softener salt near you, it is important to consider products that not only meet your specific needs but are also easily accessible. Local hardware stores and home improvement centers typically offer a variety of options, making it convenient for you to maintain your water softener with high-quality salt nearby.