What Can You Use on an Icy Walkway Besides Salt?

Sand

• Sand was the traditional material used to cover icy paths because it provided a grip for shoes and boots. It's a natural material, which can be swept into gardens when the snow has melted and the summer months have arrived. It does not irritate the feet of dogs and can be bought at most gardening stores. A big bag of sand can last the winter and is relatively inexpensive.

Cat Litter

• Cat litter is another alternative to sidewalk salt. The litter is used in the same way the salt would be used, scattering it over any icy patches and doing so in a generous amount. The gritted rock will provide more grips for your shoes or boots than sand and can be found at most pet stores. Like sand, cat litter is relatively inexpensive and can be swept into the garden after the ice melts.

Magnesium Chloride Deicer

• Similar to salt, magnesium chloride deicer melts ice and makes your sidewalks safe to walk along. The magnesium chloride deicer is made from agricultural byproducts and is environmentally safe and biodegradable. A number of companies offer the product and suggest that you scatter a generous portion on ice patches, which will melt in the course of a few hours.

Baking Soda

• Baking soda is known for many of its uses within the kitchen; however, it can also be used outside and on ice. Similar to salts, baking soda will melt icy patches around your house over the course of a few hours. You'll need lots of it to be effective. Sprinkle it on the troublesome patches just like you would any deicer product. You can mix it with another product like sand to provide traction while the baking soda removes the ice.