Tell us your household size, how hard your water is and which salt your softener takes, and we'll estimate how much salt you'll get through in a year and what it costs. The salt type you choose matters more than most people expect: block salt is convenient but the priciest per kilo, so two homes using the same amount of water can have very different running costs.
Estimate your yearly salt cost
Not sure? Your water company's website lists hardness for your postcode.
Buying loose
Salt subscription
Estimates only. Real use varies with your softener's efficiency, its settings, water meter readings and how many people are home day to day. Salt prices move with the market and delivery; treat these as a guide and check current prices before you buy.
A subscription mainly buys convenience: salt turns up before you run out, often heavy bags carried to your door. You pay for that in a slightly higher price per kilo. If you have somewhere to store a few bags and don't mind lifting them, buying loose from a builders' merchant or in bulk is almost always cheaper over a year.