A desiccant is a hygroscopic (moisture absorbing) substance that induces or sustains a state of dryness (desiccation) in its vicinity; it is the opposite of a humectant.

Commonly encountered pre-packaged desiccants are solids that absorb water. Desiccants for specialized purposes may be in forms other than solid, and may work through other principles, such as chemical bonding of water molecules. Desiccare offers products made from the three major types of desiccants using different packaging and sizing to suit your products’ needs.

1. Montmorillonite Clay— A calcium aluminum silicate type of hydrous clay which is ground, processed and bagged. It is a naturally occurring non-hazardous substance. Clay is the most budget-friendly of all desiccants, and is used in most industrial applications requiring humidity control.
2. Silica Gel— A form of silica manufactured from sodium silicate and sulfuric acid. Like Clay, Silica Gel is non-hazardous and is capable of adsorbing 40% of its weight in water vapor at 100% humidity. Silica Gel has a porous molecular structure that closely resembles a sponge, and has the highest capacity of any commercial desiccant for moisture adsorption.
3. Molecular Sieve— A manufactured crystalline version of Zeolite containing a network of uniform pores and empty cavities. Molecular sieve is derived from sodium, potassium or calcium alumina silicate. It is a non-hazardous material. Molecular sieve is the desiccant of choice for the most demanding and unique applications. Molecular sieve is the most aggressive of the primary desiccants.

**Carbon- Although not a desiccant, Carbon is often used alone or in blends in packaging applications where odor is an issue (i.e. vitamin packaging).

All three major types of desiccants are available in Pillow Pak from 0.25 gram to 14 gram and Unit Pak from 1/6 unit to 80 unit (approx. 5.8 lbs). Silica Gel and Clay are also available in bulk bags, as well as custom blends of two or more desiccants.

There are many factors that are used to determine the amount of desiccant to be used. Package size, packaged material properties, barrier material are the main factors to consider.

To size the desiccant, contact us or call our customer service department at 1-800-446-6650.

To be used most effectively, desiccants should be used within a closed/sealed moisture barrier or a rigid/sealed container. Humidity indicating cards are generally placed inside the container to show the humidity level and indicate when the desiccant needs to be replaced.

Desiccare packages desiccants in Tyvek® (heat sealed), Kraft paper (heat sealed), and Sewn Bags (non-woven rayon/Polyester blend). Desiccare will work with you to create a custom solution for your business: request a quote today.

Yes, when the correct desiccant type and packaging are used. Many desiccants are specifically designed to meet FDA and industry standards for food, pharmaceutical, and medical applications. If compliance matters for your product (and it usually does), Contact us and we’ll help you select the right option.

Some desiccants can be reactivated and reused under controlled conditions, while others are intended for single-use applications. Reusability depends on the desiccant material, exposure level, and performance requirements. For most commercial shipping applications, single-use desiccants offer the most reliable protection.

Desiccant lifespan varies based on humidity levels, package integrity, and exposure time. In a properly sealed environment, desiccants can remain effective for months, or even years. Once saturated, however, they stop absorbing moisture, which is why proper sizing is critical.

Yes, but not all desiccants perform equally in extreme humidity. Certain materials, such as molecular sieves, are specifically engineered to perform in high-moisture or low-humidity conditions. Contact us and we’ll recommend the best option based on where and how your products are shipped or stored.

Absolutely. Moisture is one of the leading causes of corrosion and rust during storage and transit. Desiccants reduce humidity inside packaging, helping protect metal components, electronics, and sensitive equipment from costly damage.

Yes. Desiccants are commonly used for international and long-distance shipments, where products may be exposed to fluctuating temperatures and humidity levels. Properly selected desiccants help protect goods during ocean freight, air transport, and long-term warehousing.

Cargo Dry products are specifically designed for keeping your products dry during international Shipments.

Often, yes. Even sealed packaging can trap residual moisture or allow humidity ingress over time. Desiccants provide an added layer of protection, especially for moisture-sensitive products or long storage periods.

Yes. Desiccants can be tailored by size, material type, packaging format, and compliance requirements. If you have specific performance needs, or a unique product, we can help design a solution that fits precisely. You can contact us or call our customer service department at 1-800-446-6650.

Desiccants are widely used across multiple industries including electronics, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, food packaging, automotive, aerospace, and industrial manufacturing. Any product sensitive to moisture can benefit from effective desiccant solutions.