What compound will remove moisture from the air, turn it to water, and collect in a container?

Question

Back in the 1950s, there was some type chemical sold in a cloth bag. You hung this bag in a basement; it collected the moisture, turning it to water which dripped into a bucket placed below the bag. The "chemical" lasted for a couple years before having to be replaced. Did the same job as an electric dehumidifier, but still "worked " when the air was too cool.

Answer 1

Anhydrous Calcium Carbonate  

Answer 2

I wonder if peat moss would do that. It acts like a sponge to absorb moisture, so it should absorb moisture from the air.  But I don't know if the water in it will drain to the bottom enough to keep dripping and keep absorbing moisture.

Answer 3

DAMP-RID! That is what you are looking for. Walmart used to carry it...you could buy it in a pouch with a hook or a container. I used to use them alot and they worked great. I dnt know what the actual chemical is but it is a granular pellet that looks like rock salt.