A lot of you probably know that finding a pet-friendly ice melt product that works efficiently isn’t always easy. So I’ve taken my time to find out which are the best ice melt products that help reduce the risk of damage to your property, children, and beloved pets.
The task of snow removal along with preventing ice from forming on our pathways is one that comes around every year. However, over the years we have learned how harmful the use of traditional rock salt can be. Not only can it kill plant life, but it can also harm your pets’ paws and the environment.
Unfortunately, finding an alternative to traditional rock salt (sodium chloride), chemical-based solutions, and ice melt pellets such as calcium chloride and magnesium chloride can be a struggle.
And, do these alternative products work in extreme cold, and are there any out there that really reduce the risk of damage to your concrete or driveway while also protecting your pet?
If you really want to learn the ins and outs of ice melts & rock salt, along with the various types and chemicals used in them be sure to check out my extensive guide which covers absolutely everything on the topic of ice melt vs rock salt.
Contents (Jump to Topic)
What To Consider When Choosing An Ice Melt
I realize that not everyone is faced with the same winter weather conditions. Some of you will be dealing with lower temperatures, a different amount and depth of snowfalls, and even different kinds of snow and ice.
Here are a few of the elements that need to be taken into account before rushing out to buy your stash of ice melts for the winter months.
Surface Type
There are various reasons you need to consider the type of surface you have before using or even buying ice melts. If you have a wooden deck and use the wrong type of ice melt, the active ingredients can stain the wood.
The same goes with driveways, if you choose an ice melt that doesn’t suit your needs then you may damage your asphalt or concrete surfaces.
One of the most asked questions is, is ice melt bad for concrete? In general, the answer is no, it is the thawing and refreezing that may damage concrete, however, if your concrete is fairly new be careful.
Temperature
Another important factor to take into consideration is temperature. The colder the air gets, the more likely it is that ice forms. Therefore, choosing an ice melt that has been designed specifically for low temperatures is absolutely essential.
Ice Melt Form (Liquid Or Solid)
Both liquid and solid form ice melts have their pros and cons. Here are a few examples for you:
Liquid Ice Melters
Pros
- Liquid formulas melt ice fast.
- Designed to prevent ice from forming.
- Friendlier to the environment.
- You can make your own homemade liquid ice melts, such as de-icer.
Cons
- However, as with all products the compounds used will vary, making it important to read the ingredients list before you buy.
- Slow working if used after ice and snow are on the ground.
Solid Ice Melters
Pros
- Some give instant traction underfoot in areas where ice has already formed.
- Effective even if applied after a storm
- A lot give instant traction underfoot
Cons
- Can be more harmful to the environment
- May stain carpets or floors if traipsed indoors
- More likely to irritate animal paws
Safety & Environmental Friendliness
As I mentioned above, all ice melts vary in the compound used and some are better than others for both safety and environmental friendliness. If you use a liquid ice melt you will prevent ice from bonding to the surface this makes using a snow shovel or other machine after a large snowfall much easier.
Types Of Ice Melt (Chemical Compositions)
There are a few common combinations of compounds found in ice melts, this is because there is not one that will cope with all circumstances. Below I briefly talk about each one and hopefully, this will give you a good idea of what each is best for.
But, you should remember, chemicals are chemicals and there are always consequences to the surrounding environment such as your plants, lawn, and wildlife.
Here are six compounds that you will find in chemical de-icers:
Sodium Chloride (Salt)
In the past rock salt was the most popular deicer, it was and still is also the cheapest. In addition to that, it effectively melts ice and gives instant traction to slippery surfaces.
However, if the temperature drops below 14°F (-10 °C) it will no longer be effective. This ice melter is the least environmentally friendly, it can harm vegetation, contaminate water supplies. It can irritate animals’ paws, and if ingested even prove fatal. Over time it will damage nearly everything it touches.
Calcium Chloride
When compared to rock salt, calcium chloride fairs better on the environmental side of things and is fast-acting. It also has a lower freezing temperature ideal for colder climates, lowering the melting temperature down to -25°F (-32°C) while remaining active for longer.
As soon as the calcium chloride lands on snow and ice it creates heat and therefore melts ice extremely fast. However, it can still harm plants and is corrosive to asphalt and concrete with continued use.
Calcium Magnesium Acetate
Calcium magnesium acetate CMA is probably the most environmentally friendly. It is great for driveways because unlike most ice melts, it is far less corrosive than products that contain chlorides.
However, it is not suitable for lower temperatures.
Magnesium Chloride
Magnesium chloride is less corrosive than calcium chloride and is thought of as a more eco-friendly ice melt. It is safer for use around pets and fast-acting, however, it is still corrosive if used often or incorrectly.
Compared to calcium chloride active at -25°F (-32°C), magnesium chloride will only work in temperatures as low as 0°F (-17°C). You may also find that you will need to apply more as it stays active for less time, making it more expensive.
Carbonyl Diamide (Urea)
This is probably the best of the bunch when it comes to the environment and your pet’s paws.
Commonly used as a fertilizer, Urea contains nitrogen that will break down to ammonia, so use wisely if you are using near a pond as this can harm aquatic life. Carbonyl Diamide works to temperatures as low as 14°F (-10°C) which is the same as rock salt. Overall, this is the safest ice melt on this list.
Best Ice Melts For Pets, Concrete, & Wood
Ok, I hope you have found the information above helpful and now know which is not only the best ice melter but also a safe ice melt for your situation.
Now for my product reviews of some of the best ice melt products available on the market today.
Best Pet Friendly: Safe Paw Ice Melter – Child, Plant & Pet Safe
This product is non-toxic and contains no chlorides or salt. Safe Paw is so sure of this product that they give a guarantee on the label that it is safe for animals and humans alike. This pellet form is a non-corrosive ice melt and is colored so you can see where it has been spread. And, unlike some ice melts it also has the benefit of having a long shelf life.
Unlike rock salt, Safe Paw is not only what the name suggests, safe for animals paw pads but young children as well. It won’t kill plants or grass, you don’t even need to wear gloves, although it is advised to always wash your hands after spreading.
However, because it is chloride and a salt-free ice melt, it is not suitable for use on ice and snow in colder climates. The lack of chemical compounds also means that this product is also concrete safe and can be used for long periods without a huge environmental impact.
Insider Tip: Due to Covid-19, snow blower stock is very LIMITED this winter.
** Don't be the only one left on the street shoveling snow, act now & secure a stress-free winter. **
Overall a great product that is safe for one and all, with a patented formula that has been recommended by veterinarians.
The Downsides
As with most ice melters that do not contain harsh chemicals, this only lowers the temperature of the point that water freezes down to -2° degrees Fahrenheit (-18 °C).
Best For Concrete: Snow Joe Melt-2-Go Calcium Chloride Ice Melt
Snow Joe Melt-2-Go calcium chloride crystals melt ice in temperatures of -25°F (-32°C). The calcium chloride crystals work extremely fast and last for 24 hours stopping the thaw-freeze cycle that causes damage to concrete.
If you are a regular to this site you will probably recognize the Snow Joe brand, as they are well respected in the world of snow blowers, and pretty much all things snow as a multi-award-winning brand.
This Snow Joe Melt-2-Go ice melt works extremely fast and in temperatures as low as -25°F (-32°C). In addition to that, these calcium chloride crystals stay active for up to 24 hours, meaning they stop the freeze/thaw cycle.
Whether you have thick ice or just a thin layer if it melts, seeps into your concrete, and then refreezes you can end up with spalling. As long as you follow the instructions the chance that you will track this product onto your floors and carpets is slim.
When compared to rock salt, you will find that you need to use far less of the Snow Joe Melt-2-Go. This does not only reduce the possibility of damage to concrete but greatly reduces the chance of subterranean corrosion.
Insider Tip: Due to Covid-19, snow blower stock is very LIMITED this winter.
** Don't be the only one left on the street shoveling snow, act now & secure a stress-free winter. **
Overall this Snow Joe product is a concrete safe, fast-acting snow and ice melt that you will not regret purchasing.
The Downsides
If used in large amounts calcium chloride will still harm plants.
Best For Wood: Earthborn Elements Ice Melt Pellets
Being 90% calcium chloride this is great for colder temperatures and is extremely fast-acting. It is safe to use on most surfaces including wood and is more eco-friendly than using salt.
This Earthborn Elements option contains 90% calcium chloride, which will not only stop the thaw-freeze cycle but will be very fast-acting. When compared to rock salt it is far less corrosive and you will need to use far less making it more eco-friendly.
Having said that, any product that contains chlorides is neither a 100% pet-safe ice melt, nor 100% environmentally friendly. Please check out our Best for Pets option above if you have concerns, as that product is also good for use on wooden decks.
Insider Tip: Due to Covid-19, snow blower stock is very LIMITED this winter.
** Don't be the only one left on the street shoveling snow, act now & secure a stress-free winter. **
Overall, this is a great product that does what it says, staying active in temperatures as low as -25°F (-32°C). The supplier also offers a money-back guarantee should you have any problems.
The Downsides
Although more eco and pet friendly than salt calcium chloride can be an irritant to both animals and humans.
Best For Asphalt: Snow Joe EB Ice Melter
This option is a great all-rounder, it is safe for use around pets, children, plants and is eco-friendly. It is fast-acting, long-lasting, and can be used as a pre-treatment to avoid the accumulation of snow and ice. The EB melt also has a colored coating making spreading evenly onto ice and snow easy.
Here I have another great product from the renowned Snow Joe Store, and this one could be listed under more than just the best ice melts for asphalt. This product is an anti-corrosion formula that has been enhanced with Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA) which is known to not harm the environment.
It starts to work immediately and because it is long-lasting it will stop the freeze-thaw cycle that is the main cause of damage to asphalt and concrete alike.
When used as per the instructions this Snow Joe EB does not cause irritation to the skin. In addition to that this will not leave you with any slimy residue.
Insider Tip: Due to Covid-19, snow blower stock is very LIMITED this winter.
** Don't be the only one left on the street shoveling snow, act now & secure a stress-free winter. **
Overall, a brilliant and safe product for wood, concrete, metals, and plants, and one that doesn’t impact the environment.
The Downsides
If there is a disadvantage to this product, it is that it doesn’t work well in colder climates.
Best On A Budget: National Blue Ice Melt
The National Blue ice melt is fast-acting and easy to use. Being a mix of sodium chloride (salt) and calcium chloride makes less of an impact on the environment. The fact that it contains no magnesium chloride makes it friendlier for concrete surfaces (but please read the label carefully there are exceptions)
Unfortunately, this may not be one of the most eco-friendly on our list. But, having said that, it is great value for money and works extremely well. This ice melt contains 10% calcium chloride, sodium chloride along with two patented accelerators.
Equally important is that this product contains no magnesium chloride making it safer for use on concrete, however, please read the label carefully as certain concretes may be susceptible to damage.
Insider Tip: Due to Covid-19, snow blower stock is very LIMITED this winter.
** Don't be the only one left on the street shoveling snow, act now & secure a stress-free winter. **
Another plus is that these National blue pellets will be active down to -15 degrees Fahrenheit so will be suitable for all but those that live with extreme winter weather conditions.
The Downsides
I feel that the label is somewhat misleading, by stating ‘pet-friendly’, although it may be friendlier when compared to pure rock salt it does still contain.
Best Salt-Free: Just For Pets Snow And Ice Melter
The biggest upside to this product has to be the fact that there are no chlorides (salt) used. It is a non-toxic product and safe for pets and humans alike. The pellets are easy underfoot and start to work immediately in temperatures as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit (-15°C). The manufacturers also state it is safe for all surfaces and offer a full money-back guarantee.
Sometimes it is hard to be eco-friendly especially when it comes to melting ice during the harsh and freezing winter storms. Well, now there is a way to do just that with these pet-safe ice melt pellets from the Just For Pets Store.
By using any product that does not contain the usual chloride components you are helping to reduce the impact that ice melts can have on the surrounding environment. It can also safely be used on all types of surfaces and will not damage plants and grass etc with toxic runoff.
Insider Tip: Due to Covid-19, snow blower stock is very LIMITED this winter.
** Don't be the only one left on the street shoveling snow, act now & secure a stress-free winter. **
These pellets stay active in temperatures as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit (-15°C), which is more than a lot of the pet safe products on the market.
The Downsides
The manufacturers do not disclose the ingredients used and unlike a lot of the others featured in my reviews, these do not contain the blue tint that makes it easier to see where you have spread them.
Best Liquid Ice Melt: Branch Creek Entry Non-Toxic Liquid Ice Melt
Probably the best feature of this product that is contains none of the damaging chlorides. Liquid ice melts act as a great preventative measure and leaves non of the mess behind once the snow is gone.
Using a liquid ice melt is probably one of the best ways to prevent an accumulation of snow and ice. Moreover, this Branch Creek option is great as it contains non of the harmful chlorides making it safer for pets and plants.
In addition to that is the fact that it leaves no messy residue or mess to clear up when warmer weather arrives. When used as per the instructions this will melt ice fast and also prevent any refreezing down to temperatures below O°F (-19°C).
Insider Tip: Due to Covid-19, snow blower stock is very LIMITED this winter.
** Don't be the only one left on the street shoveling snow, act now & secure a stress-free winter. **
Because it is a liquid you avoid the risk of having any scratches, while the neutral pH reduces the risk of marking hardwood floors etc.
The Downsides
Temperatures need to be at freezing point 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0°C) before use
Best For The Environment: EcoTraction All-Natural Volcanic Traction
Contains no harsh chemicals and is therefore safe for animals, humans, and surrounding plant life. This product can also benefit lawns by aiding water and nutrition retention, and aerating. All while providing instant traction underfoot.
Ok so I am cheating a little here as this EcoTraction ice gripper is not actually an ice melt, but hey, it’s safe for everything and everyone. After all, if you have a lot of snowfall you’re going to have to use a snow shovel or snow blower first. Even the ice melts products recommend you clear most of the snow away before use.
A product at the total opposite end of the scale when compared to the damage rock salt does to everything it touches. So if you want to be eco-friendly and have been looking for an ice melt that is safe for pets, wood, concrete or asphalt why not consider this option.
Insider Tip: Due to Covid-19, snow blower stock is very LIMITED this winter.
** Don't be the only one left on the street shoveling snow, act now & secure a stress-free winter. **
Overall EcoTraction is an all-natural and affordable way to avoid slipping and sliding your way through the winter months.
The Downsides
Although this may be totally environmentally friendly, it is not an ice melt and does tend to stick to shoes and track into the home.
How To Use Ice Melt + Pro Tips
Spreading de-icing products on snow and ice might seem like an easy task, and it is. But, there are a few common mistakes that people make resulting in damage or the product not working to its maximum. Here are a few tips on how to use ice melt to achieve the best results.
- Try to spread the ice melt before snow and ice form
- Ice melts will work best when you remove snow and ice prior to treatment
- Wear appropriate clothing when spreading (i.e protective gloves)
- Never use ice melts on concrete that is less than two years old
- Don’t be tempted to use more than instructed (this may result in damage and will not make it work any faster
- If possible use a spreading machine to ensure a nice thin layer and even spread
Wrapping Things Up
There you have it guys, I hope you have found this article useful and informative. Remember, always read the label and know what you are using, there isn’t such a thing as chloride or chemical compound that doesn’t affect the surrounding environment.
Overall, from all the ice melt products I have reviewed above my choice is the Snow Joe EB Melt-2-Go Ice Melter. This is both pet and eco-friendly as well as being very affordable and supplied by a name you can trust.
People Also Ask (FAQ)
Choosing the right type of ice melt for the surface you have is extremely important if you want to avoid damaging your property. Below I have added a few questions that I have not covered above to help you a little further.
How does ice melt work?
Although not all ice melts necessarily work in the same way, the principle process of the compound is to lower the freezing point of water. The compound creates heat and attracts moisture creating a brine which then melts the ice.
At what temperature does ice melt?
The melting temperature of ice is 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0°C), which incidentally is also, the freezing point of water.
How to melt ice in gutters?
The easiest way to melt ice in gutters, before you have an ice dam starting to form, is to carefully pour hot or warm water over the ice (not boiling). If you have ever had the problem of removing an ice dam you will understand just how important it is to keep gutters clear.
At what temperature does salt not melt ice?
A lot of you will be surprised to learn that salt does not actually melt ice. What salt does is lower the temperature at which water freezes as the salt does this the ice will start to melt. However, at temperatures below 5.8 degrees Fahrenheit (-21°C) salt will no longer melt ice and snow.
Does Dawn dish soap melt ice?
Although dawn dish soap does not melt ice, it does not freeze and is therefore often used in making homemade ice melts. A popular liquid form for clearing car windscreens is adding dawn dish soap together with rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) and water.
Will ice melt hurt my wood deck?
Because some ice melts contain harsh chemicals and are course they can easily damage a wood deck. However, when used correctly there are some that can be used to keep wooden decks clear of ice. The safest is a calcium chloride ice melt such as Eastborn Elements Ice Melt Pellets.
