Why is My Himalayan Salt Lamp Leaking? (Quick Answer)
If your Himalayan salt lamp looks like it’s “sweating” or even pooling water, don’t panic – it’s completely normal. Salt naturally attracts moisture from the air, and when your home is humid or your lamp hasn’t been on for a while, that moisture collects and drips down the lamp. In short: your salt lamp isn’t broken – it’s just doing what salt does!
In this guide, we’ll explain why this happens, how to stop it, when to worry, and easy ways to keep your salt lamp in top condition.
Why Does a Himalayan Salt Lamp Leak?
Your salt lamp isn’t defective. It’s simply doing what salt naturally does: pulling in moisture from the air. This process is called hygroscopy – and when that moisture builds up, it drips down the lamp, making it look like it’s leaking.
Common reasons for excess leaking:
- High humidity – Salt lamps pull in more moisture when the air is damp (especially in summer or bathrooms).
- Lamp isn’t on often – The warmth from the bulb helps evaporate moisture. If it’s off for long periods, water can collect.
- Poor placement – If it’s near windows, kitchens, or bathrooms, it’s exposed to more humidity.
- No coaster or base – Water can pool under the lamp and make it look worse than it is.
Quick Fixes to Stop the Leaking
Try these simple steps to keep your salt lamp dry:
- Keep it on more often – Even a few hours a day helps evaporate moisture.
- Move it to a drier spot – Avoid kitchens, bathrooms, or window sills.
- Use a coaster or tray – Protect your furniture from water drips.
- Wrap it during storage – If you’re not using it for a while, wrap it in a cloth or plastic bag to reduce moisture absorption.
- Check the bulb – A low-watt bulb may not produce enough heat. Try a slightly higher wattage (within manufacturer guidelines).
Is It Dangerous?
A leaking salt lamp isn’t usually dangerous—but there are a few things to watch out for:
- Water near wires – If the water is pooling near the cord or socket, unplug the lamp, dry it completely, and move it to a safer spot.
- Electrical shorting – If you notice flickering or buzzing, replace the cord or bulb.
- Surface damage – Always keep your lamp on a protective mat or coaster to avoid furniture damage.
How to Care for Your Salt Lamp Long-Term
With a little care, your salt lamp will stay dry and beautiful:
- Wipe it down occasionally with a dry cloth (never use water).
- Keep it on for a few hours daily to prevent moisture buildup.
- If you live in a humid area, consider using a dehumidifier in the same room.
- Use a lamp with a dimmer switch—low heat when you don’t need it bright, higher heat when you want to keep it dry.
When to Worry
Most leaking is harmless—but contact the manufacturer or replace your lamp if:
- Water is constantly pooling even in dry conditions.
- The lamp feels unstable or crumbling.
- You notice electrical issues (buzzing, sparks, or burning smells).
Yes—some moisture buildup is natural, especially in humid areas.
It can if left unattended. Always place your lamp on a coaster or tray.
You can minimize it by keeping the lamp on, moving it to a dry area, and wrapping it when not in use—but some moisture is unavoidable.
It is recommended that you leave your salt lamp running 24/7 in order for it to work correctly, it’s not . This will ensure the lamp continues to emit its negative ions which in turn will attract moisture and pollutants from the air. It will also help with any issues regarding leaking water.
Where should I place my Himalayan Salt lamp?
Your home has certain areas that are more suitable for salt lamps than others. If you want them to function at their best then you should not place them in the following locations.
- Do not place them on top of TVs or other electrical equipment
- Humid kitchens
- Steamy bathrooms and en-suites
- Utility rooms with washers/dryers
- Near open windows
- Close to external doors
- Outdoor spaces
- In direct sunlight
Have a read through the article on How to clean a Himalayan Salt Lamp to find out more on how to use a Himalayan salt lamp and how to care for one. And if you want to learn how to change a salt lamp bulb, or where to buy a salt lamp bulb then this is the article for you.
By following these steps, you can safely store your Himalayan salt lamp and protect it from any potential damage. When you’re ready to use it again, carefully unwrap it, reassemble if necessary, and enjoy its unique glow.
Summary
So now you know. Instead of worrying ‘Why is my salt lamp leaking?’ you can now understand that it is a normal part of owning one. Just take a few moments to decide the best location to place your salt lamp, sit back and enjoy.
But if you do have a salt lamp that appears to be leaking water and you want to take action against salt lamp leaking dangers, follow these steps to address the issue.
Checklist
Take a closer look at the lamp and make sure it is actually water leaking and not just condensation or humidity buildup on the surface. Salt lamps have hygroscopic properties, meaning they can attract and retain moisture from the air, leading to water droplets forming on their surface.
Before handling the lamp, unplug it from the power source to ensure your safety and avoid any electrical hazards.
Place the lamp on a dry surface or move it to a different location where it won’t cause any damage or potential harm. Keep in mind that excessive moisture could harm the lamp or cause the salt to dissolve more quickly.
If the lamp is genuinely leaking water, let it sit in a well-ventilated area to dry out. This process might take several days, depending on the amount of moisture absorbed.
Inspect the lamp for any cracks, chips, or other visible damage that could be causing the leak. If you find any such issues, it may be necessary to replace the lamp or contact the manufacturer for further assistance.
Salt lamps are best suited for dry environments. If you live in a humid area or have excessive moisture in your home, it’s possible that your lamp will naturally accumulate more moisture. In such cases, it may be beneficial to use a dehumidifier or relocate the lamp to a less humid room. And remember to keep away from pets!
To prevent future water leakage or excess moisture buildup, ensure proper care of your salt lamp. Wipe it regularly with a dry cloth to remove any accumulated moisture or dust.
If you follow these steps and the problem persists or worsens, it is recommended to reach out to the manufacturer or consult a professional for further guidance.
More ideas
If you would like to learn more about salt then please have a read through our other articles.