The Highly-Rated, Non-Toxic Deicer That Cuts Down On Snow Shoveling

It's the most wonderful time of the year, that is, except for the fact that it's also the time of year marked by inches of snow. If you reside in cold, snowy climates, you're well-acquainted with the dreaded winter maintenance task of shoveling. Even on days that the weather is dismal or you aren't feeling up to it, shoveling snow after a few inches have accumulated or using a highly rated snow blower is important to keep your walkways safe in the winter. But what about using an effective deicer to melt your snow and ice to make the task easier? While it's true that local governments use deicers to make the roads suitable for driving, many conventional substances used to dissolve ice are far from safe, especially if you have kids or pets who might want to play with the cold, fluffy snow. 

If you're looking for a lower-maintenance way to keep your snow shoveling to a minimum, and one that won't spell disaster for animals and humans alike, there is one particular non-toxic deicer — Safe Paw Pet Ice Melt — which is available on Amazon for $25 and has over 6,000 5-star reviews. Those who have pets and children may want to consider using this product because commonly used deicers contain a high sodium or chemical content, which might attract pets to lick it up and cause severe health complications. They can also irritate skin, which can be a concern for humans who come into contact with the substance. 

While all deicers work by lowering the freezing point of water, making it easier to clear away stubborn ice, the toxin factor leaves conventional deicers an untenable option for eco-conscious individuals. Safe Paw, on the other hand, is formulated with non-toxic ingredients that will not harm pets, even if it's ingested. According to Safe Paw, the active ingredients include "modified carbonyl diamide crystals, special glycols, and non-ionic surfactant accelerants," which help to melt the ice and keep working for 72 hours. Safe Paw also comes in bluish-green crystals, making it easier to see where it has been spread.

Chemical deicers that contain chloride can be corrosive, depending on what surface they are spread on, but the absence of such damaging ingredients makes Safe Paw a gentle, yet effective, substance to use on your property, too. For extra confidence in the purchase, it's always good to know what customers think. Safe Paw has a 76% five-star average, with many individuals praising how effective the product is. "This ice melt is amazing," one reviewer wrote. "We had a huge snowstorm that dumped 8 inches in a matter of hours. Shoveled the steps and sprinkled this. When I went out an hour or so later the steps were not just ice free but also dry. I will be buying more!" If you're looking for a good solution to the season long fight against snow and ice, Safe Paw can be one of the best hacks that will keep your surfaces clear from snow and safe for your furry friends.