Different Types Of Ice Melt Products: Which One Is The Safest

Every winter, there is a rush at all stores to buy ice melter products. Households rush to purchase the cheapest ice melt in the market, i.e rock salt. But is that the best choice? 

In this article, we will discuss different types of ice melt products. We will also discuss the pros and cons of using each and which one you should use.

Finding the right ice melt requires more than a quick fix-up but long-term solutions that are effective and mindful of the environment and pet safety. Here is an expanded look at some ice melt alternative ice melting options and deicers which try to strike a balance between efficacy, eco-friendliness, and non-toxicity.

Understanding Safe Ice Melt Options

For those with pets, choosing ice melt products is a big deal. Traditional ice melts such as calcium chloride or magnesium chloride although efficient might be very risky. These substances can cause pain, burns in animal paws or may even be poisonous if ingested by animals. Consequently, pet owners are increasingly using pet-safe de-icer products that are safe for pets without sacrificing on the effectiveness of melting ice.

Exploring Different Deicer Chemicals

Well, rock salt (sodium chloride) is one of the most popular option (but not the best one), there are several other options similar options:

Rock Salt-Rock salt is nothing but sodium chloride. It is the cheapest alternative but is detrimental to concrete because of its corrosive nature. Concrete consists of millions of tiny pores that tend to retain some amount of water. And as we apply the ice melter products, especially rock salt, these tiny pores eventually become affected.  

Calcium chloride- It is one of the most common ice melter products with a melting point of -25 degrees Fahrenheit. It works by turning ice into brine (liquid), lowering the freezing point of water, producing heat, and thus, causing the ice to melt. It is expensive than most other compounds in the market. Known for its ability to melt ice up to -25°F, this deicer can quickly clear ice but at possible concrete destruction as well as environmental issues over time.

Sodium Chloride– Popularly known as rock salt, sodium chloride is one of the most commonly used ice melts in the market. It is not the safest ice melt for concrete, but it is cheaper than the others. It works best up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit and is corrosive to metals, and leaves behind a whitish residue. 

Sodium chloride liquid brine– A typical solution is made of ¾ part water and ¼ part sodium (salt) and uses significantly less salt. It is cheaper than rock salt; however, despite having the lowest melting point of -6 degrees Fahrenheit, it is not the best salt for concrete and can corrode your driveway, sidewalks, asphalt surfaces, metal, etc. 

Magnesium chloride– is a slow-acting ice melt and one of the most expensive ones available in the market. Its lowest melting temperature is 0 degrees Fahrenheit. It is less corrosive but not entirely safe.Its approach is more temperate; it is effective down to -13°F and comparatively less damaging to plants and pet pads than harsher compounds. However, it still corrodes surfaces and should be used parsimoniously.

Potassium chloride: Often touted for being less harsh on environments and safer for pets, it is less effective in extremely cold conditions, limiting its use in harsher winter climates.

Non-chloride ice melt- If you’re looking for a salt-free, chloride-free solution, thenUrea, kitty litter, sand, homemade ice melting solutions, and Safe Paw that help alleviate snow and ice problems for residents without damaging the environment.

Many people use homemade ice melting solutions such as beet juice, urea, kitty litter, etc. but these have their own cons. These products are mostly messy to use, leach out, or leave a residue. On the other hand, Safe Paw is 100% chloride-free, salt-free, and 100% safe for the environment and does not have any after-effects.

Bulk Purchase With Safe Paw

Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Traditional Ice Melts

For those prioritizing environmental impact, innovative solutions include:

• Beet juice ice melt: This option utilizes the natural lowering of the freezing point found in beet juice, combined with traditional salts to reduce overall chloride use. It’s effective, biodegradable, and causes significantly less surface damage.
• Sand: Not an ice melt but a traction aid, sand provides immediate safety on icy surfaces without any chemical impact. It’s ideal for immediate non-chemical safety but requires subsequent clean-up to prevent drainage issues.
• Non-salt ice melts like Safe Paw offer a non-corrosive and non-toxic alternative, using glycol technology to break down ice without harmful side effects on pets, metal surfaces, or vegetation.

The Role of Innovative Solutions like Safe Paw

Safe Paw has emerged as a leading solution in the environmentally friendly deicer market. Its unique formulation is free from traditional salts, relying instead on a patented dual-effect compound that is safe around children, pets, and plants. It effectively melts ice in low temperatures without the environmental footprint associated with chloride-based products.

Practical Application Tips for Maximum Efficacy and Safety

When applying any ice melt, whether chemical or natural, following best practices ensures optimal results and minimal harm:

• Pre-application: Before snowfall, applying a thin layer of ice melt can prevent ice from bonding to surfaces, making subsequent removal easier.
• Proper distribution: Use a spreader for even distribution, avoiding overuse which can lead to environmental damage and surface degradation.
• Protective measures: Always wear gloves and protective eyewear when handling chemical deicers to prevent skin and eye irritation.

Winter safety is paramount, not just in preventing slips and falls but also in ensuring that the solutions we choose do not have unintended negative impacts on our environment or our health. As winter approaches, selecting the right ice melt product—one that offers effectiveness without compromise—is essential for both safety and sustainability. For those particularly concerned about the long-term health of their landscapes and furry friends, products like Safe Paw represent a significant advancement in de-icing technology.

However, every ice melter manufacturer will advise you to take precautions for new concrete as it is still settling and getting acclimatized with the weather condition. Therefore you must practice caution and care with new concrete.

Concrete Safe Ice Melt

Conclusion

If you are looking for a valuable and long-lasting ice melt concrete safe, Safe Paw proves helpful on every account. We are here to help you find the correct product and make your winter far easier than ever before.

Gaia Enterprises Inc. delivers 100% pet-safe and environmentally friendly winter products. Safe Paw, our flagship product, is the #1 selling pet-safe ice melt that does not harm pets, safe if ingested, and safe on all types of concrete.

Other Ice Melt Products