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What Is a Natural Way to Melt Ice on Concrete Stairs?

Concrete stairs could appear to be free from ice and safe for walking, but ice is deceiving in its appearance. Trying to walk on ice-coated stairs could result in a quick trip to the bottom and the possibility of injuries. However, some deicing chemicals are unsafe for both people and the environment. If you're concerned about using toxic chemicals to melt ice, keep a natural deicing agent handy for your safety and the safety of others.

Things You'll Need

  • Salt deicer crystals
  • Hand-held spreader
  • Gloves
  • Liquid urea
  • Hand-held sprayer
  • Alfalfa meal
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place salt deicer crystals in a hand-held spreader and evenly distribute the salt over the ice. Sweep and dispose of the salt in a safe manner after the ice has melted. Wear gloves to protect your hands from the drying effects of the salt.

    • 2

      Spray liquid urea over the ice and allow it to sit until the ice is melted. Pour the liquid into a hand-held sprayer to distribute it. Liquid urea is a natural fertilizer that can still harm plant life if it's sprayed in high enough dosages.

    • 3

      Spread alfalfa meal to melt ice and leave traction for walking. Alfalfa meal is all natural and is used as a fertilizer. The nitrogen content in alfalfa meal is not harmful to lakes and ponds when used in moderation.