This pushes the sand in a new direction and can help loosen clumps that formed while the sand fell vertically.
If it’s over 20 °F (−7 °C) outside, the indoor humidity should be 35%. If it’s over 10 °F (−12 °C) outside, the indoor humidity should be 30%. If it’s less than 10 °F (−12 °C) outside, the indoor humidity should be 20%. If it’s less than 20 °F (−7 °C) outside, the indoor humidity should be 15%. If you live in a climate with lots of humidity, no problem! Place a dehumidifier in the room where your hourglass sits, or turn on the air conditioner to combat excess moisture.
This applies a gentle and focused heat you can control.
Silica gel can absorb 10% of water in 1 hour. [4] X Research source Leave your hourglass submerged for an hour, check it, and put it back in the silica gel if there is still condensation. Another common desiccant you may have heard of is rice. If you’ve ever gotten your phone wet and put it in a bag of rice, you’re using a desiccant. Rice can be used when pulling moisture from an hourglass, but it may not be strong enough to get the job done.
This technique could be dangerous and should be a last resort effort to revive your hourglass. If you try this method, keep a close eye on your baking hourglass and remove it immediately if anything starts to burn, bend, or melt. Keep in mind that hourglasses can be made with all types of materials. An hourglass with a wood or plastic frame, for example, should not be placed in the oven.