With freezing rain lingering on driveways and sidewalks across the metro and more expected overnight Tuesday, many homeowners are wanting to get rid of the ice.
Viewers on our 3 News Now Facebook page told us their go-to de-icing remedies. We tested 4:
1. Soap, hot water and rubbing alcohol
We mixed a half gallon of hot water with a teaspoon of rubbing alcohol and a tablespoon of Dawn dish soap. The hot water temporarily melted the ice, but the soap and rubbing alcohol were not enough to stop the refreezing.
2. Lawn fertilizer
The most expensive option, we bought the cheapest fertilizer we could find at a big box store. After about 15 minutes on the driveway, the fertilizer did successfully melt the ice under and around the pellets. However, this option is not for all driveways as it can stain some concrete.
3. Kitty litter
Unfortunately, kitty litter does not melt ice. It did provide some traction on the driveway. But, overall, it was still slippery.
4. Sodium Chloride (salt)
This worked the fastest to melt the ice and was the cheapest option. But, it is not a good solution for all driveways and walkways as it can damage some concrete and comes with environmental concerns.
Other popular remedies include sand and a saltwater mix. Weigh in on our 3 News Now Facebook page.
