Best Ice Melt: Proven Solutions That Work For You Instead Of Against You!
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If you live in an area that experiences cold and snowy winters, you know the importance of having a reliable ice melt product on hand. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs.
That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the top ice melt products on the market, along with factors to consider when making your decision.
Before we dive into the specifics, it’s important to understand the different types of ice melt products available. Some are made with salt, while others use chemicals like calcium chloride or magnesium chloride. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on factors like temperature and the surface being treated.
By considering these factors and choosing the right product for your situation, you can ensure safe and effective ice melting without damaging your property or harming the environment.
Best Ice Melt
| Image | Product | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Green Gobbler Pet Safe Ice Melt Fast Acting Treatment | 9.7 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Snow Joe AZ-25-EB-BKT Melt-2-Go Nature + Pet Friendly CMA Blended Ice Melter | 9.5 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Safe Paw, Child Plant Dog Paw & Pet Safe Ice Melt -8lb | 9.1 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Safe Paw, Child Plant Dog Paw & Pet Safe Ice Melt -35lb | 8.8 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Scotwood Industries 50P-RR Road Runner Premium Ice Melter, 50-Pound | 8.6 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Snow Joe AZ-50-EB Ice Melter, 50-lb Bag | 8.2 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Scotwood 50B-RR Ice Melt Pellet, 50lb Bag, Road Runner | 8 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Earthborn Elements Snow Melt (1 Gallon) Fast-Acting Pellets | 7.7 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | National Blue Ice Melt 20lb Bucket – Fast Acting Ice Melter | 7.4 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Branch Creek Entry Chloride-Free, Non- Toxic, Snow and Ice Melt | 7.2 | Check Price on Amazon |
Last update on 28th September 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our Recommended Ice Melt:
Green Gobbler Pet Safe Ice Melt Fast Acting Treatment
- MELTS SNOW AND ICE IN FRIGID TEMPERATURES (as low as -10°F): Pet Safe will generate exothermic heat over a short period of time. In a test, our product melted twice as much ice as rock salt in 21°F!
- MAGNESIUM CHLORIDE FORMULA HARVESTED FROM THE DEAD SEA. Magnesium chloride ice melt has a notoriously low toxicity level making it less toxic than calcium, potassium or sodium chloride.
- SAFER FOR PETS AND THE ENVIRONMENT. Pet Safe is highly unlikely to burn or irritate the skin or pets paws. Pet Safe won’t harm plants or cause spalling on driveways and concrete that’s been properly set and cured.
- PERFECT FOR SPREADERS. Because of its small, round pellet shape, Pet Safe can be used in various ice melt spreaders.
- 30 DAY HASSLE FREE MONEY BACK GUARANTEE. We value our customers and we stand behind ALL of our products 100% with no questions asked! If you are not pleased simply call or email us with your order number and we will reimburse you in FULL!
Last update on 28th September 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is probably the most popular product on the market for the simple reason it just works! This ice melt option from Green Gobbler can be found in 10, 15, and 35 lbs package to pick the right size for your needs, and can be found at a very attractive price online. This product is designed to work in low temperatures and can provide results even in extreme winter conditions that reach -10 degrees Fahrenheit.
It is based on a magnesium chloride formula that is safe for your pets, concrete, or asphalt. It is vital to pick a formula that is safe to use, won’t irritate your pet’s paw on contact, or risk corrosion.
Thanks to its pellet shape, this is ideal to use with any melt spreader and covers a wide area equally without hustle. Overall, this is a powerful and effective product that works as intended even in extreme weather conditions. This is a worthy investment that will help you face the winter months without breaking the bank. If you are worried about the ice melt while your pets are nearby, this product is the safest bet as it will not cause any issues if ingested or come in contact.
Snow Joe AZ-25-EB-BKT Melt-2-Go Nature + Pet Friendly CMA Blended Ice Melter
- PET FRIENDLY: Formulated from nature’s own ingredients, EB Ice Melt provides a greener solution to deicing that is safer for pets. Unlikely to irritate paws or cause rashes.
- ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE: Leaves no slimy residue behind, making it safe to use on grass, turf, around trees and other vegetation. Protects surrounding hardscapes and softscapes when used as directed.
- SAFE TO HANDLE: When used as directed, EB Ice Melt will not dry out or irritate the skin and can be safely and easily dispensed without requiring the use of protective clothing. MELT EB is specially treated with an anti-caking agent to extend shelf-life and improve dispersion.
- FAST-ACTING IN FREEZING TEMPERATURES: Goes to work immediately upon contact with snow and ice to accelerate the deicing and melting process. Pre-treating surfaces will also prevent ice and snow from accumulating.
- ANTI-CORROSION FORMULA: Enhanced with CMA (calcium magnesium acetate), an environmentally benign deicing agent, EB Ice Melt delivers fast and effective results without damaging surfaces such as concrete or metals.
Last update on 28th September 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The ice melter from Snow Joe is another popular option you should consider if you are looking for an effective product that won’t break the bank. This product is intended to work in freezing temperatures and accelerate the melting process even in extreme conditions. This is a great budget-friendly option that will help prevent snow and ice accumulation on surfaces, a great and effective solution to have available at your disposal.
This ice melt is based on a calcium magnesium acetate that promises fast results and comes in color-coated crystals to help visually measure. It is pet-friendly and won’t harm your plants, concrete, or metal surfaces. Overall, this is a well-researched product that works as intended and is made with pets and the environment in mind. If you are looking for a safe-to-handle and fast-acting solution, this one is worth having a closer look at while researching for an ice melt.
Understanding the Types of Ice Melt Products Available
You’re probably wondering what types of ice melt products are available, aren’t you? Well, coincidentally, there are a variety of options to choose from depending on your specific needs and preferences.
The most common types of ice melt products include calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, sodium chloride, and potassium chloride. Each type comes with its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to understand their differences before making a purchase.
Calcium chloride is one of the most effective ice melt products on the market, as it can melt ice at temperatures as low as -25 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it also has a higher environmental impact than other options, as it can be harmful to plants and animals.
Magnesium chloride is a more environmentally-friendly option, as it has a lower impact on the environment and can melt ice at temperatures as low as -13 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it may not be as effective as calcium chloride in extremely cold temperatures.
Sodium chloride, also known as rock salt, is a common and affordable option for melting ice. While it may be effective in certain conditions, it has a higher environmental impact than other options and can damage concrete and metal over time.
Finally, potassium chloride is another eco-friendly option that is safe for plants and animals. However, it may not be as effective as other options in extremely cold temperatures.
Understanding the pros and cons of each type of ice melt product can help you make an informed decision that meets your needs while minimizing your impact on the environment.
How to Properly Apply Ice Melt
To make sure your driveway and sidewalks are safe during the winter months, it’s important to know the correct way to apply ice melt. Here are some dos and don’ts to help you properly apply ice melt and keep your property safe:
- Proper storage: Before applying ice melt, it’s important to store it properly. Keep it in a dry place, away from moisture and heat. This will prevent it from clumping and becoming ineffective. Also, be sure to keep it out of reach of pets and children, as some types of ice melt can be harmful if ingested.
- Dos of ice melt application: When applying ice melt, make sure to follow the instructions on the package. Apply it evenly, using a spreader if possible, and avoid using too much. Over-applying can damage concrete and other surfaces. Also, make sure to wear gloves to protect your skin from irritation.
- Don’ts of ice melt application: Do not use ice melt on newly poured concrete that hasn’t fully cured. Also, avoid applying it near plants and grass, as it can damage them. Finally, don’t use ice melt on indoor surfaces, as it can cause slippery conditions and damage flooring.
By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure that you’re properly applying ice melt and keeping your property safe during the winter months. Remember to store it properly, apply it evenly, and avoid using too much. With these tips, you can effectively use ice melt to prevent slips and falls on your property.
What Types of Ice Melt Are Harmful?
Pet safety is a big concern with any ice melt product because pets are much more likely to ingest it. While you should never use solvent-based products around your pet, even common rock salt will cause gastrointestinal problems if ingested in large quantities.
While most pet-specific ice melts use potassium acetate, which is not toxic to pets when ingested in small amounts, there are many other types that can be just as dangerous.
If you’re using calcium chloride or magnesium chloride on your property, pay attention to where your pet goes and use a pet-safe ice melt product on those areas. If you’re not sure if a product is safe for your pet, check the label or call the manufacturer before putting it on your property.
Things to Consider When Looking for the Best Ice Melt:
Ice Melt Form
Different ice melts are available in different forms, ranging from liquid to granular or pellets. You’ll need to choose the form that works best for your situation, but keep in mind that your choice can affect how much you use and where it goes.
Liquid products are best for large areas where you want to cover a lot of ground, while pellets have the advantage of being easier to handle. You’ll also generally need to use less liquid ice melt than pellets, which makes it more cost effective in some cases.
For better melting power, choose a product with multiple additives. Not only do these products have a higher melting power, but they’re also ideal for use on elevated surfaces or uneven ground because they can break up ice even in those conditions.
There’s also a matter of convenience to consider here. If you’re planning on using ice melt in the middle of winter, pellets may be more difficult to carry and pour than liquid de-icers.
Odor and Corrosive Effects
Another important consideration is odor and corrosiveness. While rock salt products don’t have much of an odor, liquid and pellet de-icers can leave a strong (and potentially harmful) smell behind.
Liquid de-icers also tend to be more corrosive than pellets because the chemicals they contain dissolve quickly once in contact with snow and ice. For that reason, you’ll want to use a pet-safe version if your pets will be walking on the same outdoor surfaces as you.
When it comes to corrosiveness, keep in mind that most pet-safe ice melts aren’t actually safe for your pets if ingested. Look for a product with a low toxicity rating and be sure to pay attention to where your dog goes outside so they don’t ingest any potentially harmful deicers while you’re out there.
Take the time to choose the right ice melt for your needs, and everyone in your household can enjoy a safe winter season.
Surface Type
Different ice melts work well on different surfaces. You’ll need to choose a product that’s appropriate for the surface in your yard and on your driveway, although you may want to choose one type of ice melt for sidewalks and another for driveways if you have a lot of them.
Rock salt is ideal for asphalt or concrete, while calcium magnesium acetate is best for concrete or asphalt with gravel on top. Potassium acetate is ideal for any type of surface including grass, but it’s corrosive to metals so avoid using it near metal surfaces.
For the most effective melting power even in high temperatures, choose a product that contains more than one additive. You’ll likely want to use a rock salt product on your asphalt or concrete if you live in a climate where it doesn’t get too cold, but there are many products that work well on every type of surface even in hot weather.
Pack Size
One of the most important considerations here is pack size. You’ll want to get an idea of how much ice melt you’ll need before buying, and keep in mind that ice melts are sold by weight. If your favorite product isn’t available locally, buy it online so you can get the pack size you need without having to pay for shipping again.
Also note that liquid de-icers tend to be more expensive per pound than pellets or other forms, so if you have a small area to cover or are looking for the most cost effective choice, pellets may be your best option.
Melting Time and Longevity
Different ice melts have different melting times. Pellets melt faster than liquid products, while some pellets have a faster melting time than others. For the fastest response time possible when temperatures change rapidly, choose a product that contains both large and small pellets. The amount of ice or snow you’re dealing with matters too, so keep in mind the size of your surface as you compare melting times.
Some ice melts are designed to melt quickly, while others can last through multiple thaw cycles. The product you select will be determined by the amount of melting power required for your application.
For example, if you have a long driveway or sidewalk to cover, you’ll want something that lasts longer so you won’t have to keep re-treating it during a thaw cycle. If your sidewalk is only a few feet long and you don’t expect temperatures to get below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, you can probably use an ice melt with a faster melting time because you’ll only be treating the surface once or twice.
Don’t choose multiple products for different sections of your yard – it takes too long to switch between them when freezing temperatures hit or temperatures rise. Instead, choose an ice melt with the right melting power so you can treat your entire surface at once without worrying about multiple thaw cycles.
Safety and Environmental Considerations
Different types of ice melts pose different safety and environmental hazards. Even if a product is safe for your pets, it may not be healthy for grass or other vegetation in the area around your home. Look for products with low toxicity levels if you have children or pets in or around your yard so they won’t accidentally ingest anything harmful when going outside during the winter.
It’s also important to consider environmental impact when choosing an ice melt. Rock salt can cause damage to vegetation and groundwater, making it a safer choice for driveways but not sidewalks or other areas where you want to avoid harming grass and your yard as much as possible.
Many products are safe for the environment and won’t harm grass or other vegetation or leave behind a residue, making them a good choice for sidewalks and other hardscapes where you want to avoid harming the natural landscape.
Some ice melts can leave behind a white residue when it’s dry out, but this happens less often with products formulated specifically for moist environments. If your area gets plenty of snowfall in winter, choose one with low or no residue so you won’t have to deal with unsightly white streaks on your walkway. Try to avoid ice melts that produce black ash, especially if your area has lots of trees and vegetation you want to protect.
Cost and Ease of Use
Another thing to consider when selecting the finest ice melt for your requirements is the price. It’s a good idea to compare prices of various ice melt products before making a decision to find one that fits your budget.
You’ll also want to think about whether or not you can simply pour the stuff from its original container onto surfaces where it is required. Pellet and liquid forms are generally more difficult to handle than rock salt, but they’re easier to use for large areas or elevated surfaces.
Temperature and Weather Conditions
Finally, you’ll need to choose an ice melt based on temperature and weather conditions. Of course, rock salt is ideal for colder climates where it gets below freezing, but other products like calcium magnesium acetate are better suited to warmer climates.
The best time to use liquid ice melts is in the middle of winter when temperatures are above freezing; rock salt products work best in these colder climates. Pellet ice melt is ideally suited for warmer climates where the temperature doesn’t frequently get below freezing, and it’s also easily visible when spread on surfaces so you can track its effectiveness.
Tips for Preventing Ice Buildup
If you want to prevent ice buildup, there are a few key tips to keep in mind.
First, make sure you’re shoveling snow regularly. This will help prevent the snow from compacting and turning into ice.
Second, remove any standing water, as this can also freeze and create dangerous conditions.
Finally, consider using snow fences to help prevent snow from accumulating in certain areas, which can also lead to ice buildup.
By following these tips, you can help ensure a safer winter season.
Shoveling snow regularly
Persistently shoveling snow can be the key to unlocking a smooth, ice-free driveway. Not only does it prevent the buildup of snow and ice, but it also provides a great workout. Shoveling snow is a great way to burn calories, improve cardiovascular health, and build muscle strength. The benefits of shoveling don’t stop there, as it can also improve your mental health by providing a sense of accomplishment and reducing stress levels.
To make the most out of shoveling, it’s important to use proper shoveling techniques. Start by warming up your muscles before you begin. Stretching your arms and legs can help prevent muscle strains and injuries. When shoveling, use your legs to lift the snow instead of your back. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and lift with your knees, not your back.
Remember to take frequent breaks to prevent exhaustion and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. By shoveling regularly and using proper techniques, you can not only prevent ice buildup but also improve your overall health and wellness.
Removing standing water
When you see standing water on your driveway or patio after a heavy rain, it’s important to remove it as soon as possible. Not only can it lead to slip hazards, but it can also cause damage to your concrete or pavement over time. Standing water can seep into cracks and freeze, expanding and causing further damage.
To prevent slips, it’s important to remove standing water promptly. One effective method is to use a squeegee to push the water off the surface and into a nearby drain or gutter. If you don’t have a squeegee, a push broom can also be used to move the water. Another option is to use a wet/dry vacuum to suck up the water.
| Chemical Free Options | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Sand | Inexpensive, readily available | Can be messy and difficult to clean up |
| Kitty Litter | Absorbs water well, also helps with traction | Can be heavy and difficult to handle |
| Calcium Magnesium Acetate | Effective at melting ice and snow, environmentally friendly | More expensive than other options |
In addition to preventing slips, it’s also important to consider chemical-free options when removing standing water. Sand and kitty litter are both inexpensive and readily available options that can absorb the water and provide traction. Calcium magnesium acetate is a more expensive option, but it is effective at melting ice and snow without harming the environment. Consider these options when removing standing water to protect both your safety and the environment.
Using snow fences
Now that you’ve successfully removed standing water from your property, it’s time to think about preventing ice buildup. One effective way to do this is by using snow fences.
Snow fences are typically made of wooden slats or plastic mesh and are installed perpendicular to the direction of prevailing winds. They work by slowing down the wind and causing it to deposit snow on the downwind side of the fence, rather than allowing it to accumulate on your property.
The benefits of snow fences are numerous. Not only do they prevent ice buildup and reduce the risk of slip-and-fall accidents, but they can also help to prevent damage to trees and shrubs from heavy snow loads.
Proper installation of snow fences is key to their effectiveness. They should be installed at a distance of 35 to 40 times their height upwind of the area you want to protect. This allows for the proper amount of snow to accumulate on the downwind side of the fence.
It’s also important to ensure that the fence is installed securely and that there are no gaps that could allow snow to blow through. With the proper installation and maintenance, snow fences can be an effective tool in preventing ice buildup and ensuring the safety and health of your property.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can ice melt products harm my plants or pets?
As you search for ice melt, beware of products that could harm your plants and pets. Look for pet-friendly alternatives and be aware of common plant damage from ice melt products. Stay safe and protect your loved ones.
Is it safe to use ice melt products on all types of surfaces?
When using ice melt products, it’s important to consider the surface you’re applying it to. Different products may work better on certain surfaces, so effectiveness comparisons are key. Additionally, best application techniques can help minimize any potential damage.
How long does it take for ice melt products to start working?
Did you know that the melting speed of ice melt products can vary by up to 60%? Factors affecting melting speed include temperature, humidity, and thickness of ice. Effectiveness comparison depends on these factors.
Are there any environmentally-friendly ice melt options available?
Looking for eco-friendly alternatives to ice melt? Sustainability concerns have led to the development of products made from natural materials like beet juice, calcium magnesium acetate, and potassium acetate. These options are effective and safer for the environment.
How often should I apply ice melt to prevent ice buildup?
Frequent application of ice melt is necessary to prevent ice buildup. The best time to apply is before a storm or when temperatures drop. Research shows that using too much can harm the environment.