Homemade Ice Melt for Steps, Walkways, and Driveways

Household items can help you safely deal with ice and snow. Imagenet/Shutterstock

Got ice and snow on top of super cold temperatures this winter? “Everyday Cheapskate” reader Jennifer does, and she wrote, “Do you have a solution for melting ice and snow on walkways, driveways, steps, and windshields?”

I do, and at least one of these homemade recipes is sure to come to Jennifer’s rescue, and quite possibly yours, too. All of these recipes and methods use ordinary household items most of us keep on hand.

No. 1: Basic De-icer

Into a large container or bucket, pour 2 quarts water, 6 drops Blue Dawn dishwashing liquid, and 2 tablespoons rubbing alcohol (70 percent or 91 percent). Dispense using a spray bottle or other type of garden sprayer. Spray the mixture on icy area or steps, and watch the snow and/or the ice melt, which is going to make your job of making those areas safe so much easier.