Winter is hard on driveways, especially in places that get snowfall and use snow plows. The force of all that snow (and the chemicals used to melt it) can damage asphalt and concrete surfaces. Therefore, keeping your driveway clear should be a top priority for safety reasons. And as with most things, the best way to get rid of ice on your driveway is by using simple ingredients you probably already have at home! Here are a few of my favorite tips for making best homemade ice melt:
Kitty Litter
Kitty litter is a great way to absorb moisture, and it’s cheap and easy to find. You can get kitty litter in any grocery store or pet supply store. It’s safe for the environment, won’t hurt your grass or plants, and you don’t have to worry about toxic chemicals leaching out into the ground where they can do damage. However, there are disadvantages.
One disadvantage is that it’s not a permanent solution if you don’t want the kitty litter sitting in your driveway all winter long. It’s also important to note that if you’re using clay-based kitty litter, the clay may clump up and make it difficult for the sun to dry out your driveway during dry spells in between storms.
100% Salt & Chloride-Free, Fast-Acting Ice Management Solution
Rubbing Alcohol
You can also use rubbing alcohol to melt ice. This method works well on car windows as well. If you’re having trouble with frozen wipers on your vehicle (or any other part of your car), simply pour some rubbing alcohol over them. Let the substance work for about five minutes before wiping away any excess liquid with a cloth towel or paper towel.
While rubbing alcohol is non-toxic and evaporates quickly, it’s still flammable. It’s best not to use this method on an icy surface that will then be exposed to the sun and the heat of direct sunlight for long —the heat could cause an explosion!
A mixture of water, salt, and dishwashing liquid
Many people create their own ice melt. All you need is a bucket of warm water and a few tablespoons of salt, and some dishwashing liquid. Put the salt into the warm water and mix until it is dissolved.
Of course, there are disadvantages to this method: It may take longer than other solutions and depend on where you live (and how cold it gets), and these so-called best homemade ice melt varieties may not always work when conditions are harsh enough for ice to form in the first place! Moreover, you already know the disadvantages of using salt on your driveway. We do not recommend using such quick fixes on your property.
100% Salt & Chloride-Free, Fast-Acting Ice Management Solution
Use Safe Thaw
Safe Thaw is a chemical-free product that can be used on a variety of surfaces. It can be used on driveways with concrete or asphalt, and for paths and steps around your home. It’s considered the best ice melt for asphalt. Safe Thaw contains no salt or calcium chloride, so you don’t have to worry about harming your pets or the environment when using it in your driveway.
Try Also Our Other Winter Safety Products
Safe Paw
The Original and #1 Selling Pet and Child Safe Ice Melt for over 20 years. Guaranteed environmentally safe – will not harm waterways and sensitive wetlands. Safe Paw can change how winter affects our planet.
Ice Traction (with Traction Magic™)
Ice Traction is your go-to winter solution for driveways, walkways, parking lots, and even black ice on the road. Unlike salt or ice melts, it delivers instant grip on snow and slippery surfaces with no wait time.
Just spread and go.
Instant Grip. Zero Melt Time.
Total Confidence on Black Ice
