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Avoid dangerous falls this winter! How to make DIY de-icer for your stairs and driveways

Maryal Miller Carter   Paste BN
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As winter temperatures drop, icy conditions make dangerous slips and falls all too common, which is why it's essential to be proactive in preventing slippery stairs. Sure, you can buy commercial deicer at the store, but why buy when you can DIY? Instead, you can ditch those harmful chemicals and make your own powerful deicing solution at home, using safe household items you probably already have on hand.

All it takes are three ingredients and a few simple steps to keep your stairs slip-free in icy weather. No special equipment or expertise required!

We’re also sharing tips on enhancing traction for icy surfaces using readily available materials so you can say goodbye to treacherous stairs, walkways and driveways for good, giving you accident-free winters.

Watch the video above to learn how to make a homemade deicer.

How to make your own homemade deicer

Supplies:

  • Warm water
  • Isopropyl alcohol
  • Dish soap
  • Spray bottle

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Instructions:

  • Check the weather forecast for freezing temperatures to anticipate the onset of icy conditions so you can take preventive measures.
  • Prepare a deicer solution by combining one part warm water and two parts isopropyl alcohol in a spray bottle.
  • Add a small amount of dish soap to the mixture.
  • Thoroughly mix the ingredients in the spray bottle.
  • Liberally spray the homemade deicer on outdoor stairs or steps to prevent the formation of ice.
  • In addition to working as a preventative measure, this spray is effective for breaking down existing ice buildup on stairs.
  • For enhanced traction on icy surfaces, consider spreading salt, sand or kitty litter.
    • Salt melts ice and snow while absorbing moisture, making it ideal for driveways; however, it doesn't provide immediate traction on slushy surfaces.
    • Sand offers immediate traction but does not absorb moisture.
    • Kitty litter provides immediate traction and absorbs moisture, but may stick to the driveway due to excessive absorption.
  • Use salt or sand for driveways to make them drivable. Reserve kitty litter for emergency situations.

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