It is now the middle of January, two weeks into the new year and all across the country many people have been, and will continue to, deal with bitter cold weather and snowy/icy conditions. It’s the time of year when many of us get a chance to burn off those holiday pounds by shoveling or pushing a snow-blower. And, while shoveling and snow-blowing may get rid of the bulk of the snow in your driveway or on your walkways, they won’t take care of the ice which can be a slipping hazard. The answer to that problem is deicers. Unfortunately, the most common deicer (salt) can be hazardous to your pets, plants, and driveway/walkway.
Luckily, there are several safe and natural deicers that can handle the job of making your driveway/walkways slip-free. Listed below are a few examples of alternatives to salt which are safe, natural and effective.
“Kitty Litter”- If you happen to own a cat, or know someone who does, this is an effective way of keeping your footing on those icy surfaces. While kitty litter won’t actually melt the ice, it does create traction for a far less slippery surface.
“Coffee Grinds”- This effective no-slip solution can be found in just about any kitchen in the country. The dark colors of the coffee will also help absorb more heat and therefore help with the melting of the ice.
“Organic Salt-free Deicers”- If you don’t mind spending a few extra bucks, salt-free organic deicers, work just as well as salt but won’t harm your pets or plants.
“Alfalfa Meal”- This may actually be the most effective all natural deicing solution. Not only will it create great traction and assist in melting the ice, it is also often used as a fertilizer, so no worries about it coming in contact with your plants.
While some of these may not work as quickly or effectively as salt, they are a safe and natural alternative.