fbpx
Blog / Articles

The Dangers of Sodium Chloride Ice Melters

0 comments
sodium chloride to melt ice

Sodium chloride (NaCl) is the primary mineral ingredient in some types of rock salt and alternative ice melters. It is also the formula for table salt, but does that make it a safe product for melting ice?

There are several reasons NOT to use sodium chloride rock salt for melting the ice around your home or where you work. There is a safe and effective alternatives in this comprehensive article

The Dangers of Sodium Chloride Ice Melters

Whether the product is pure sodium chloride rock salt or the NaCl is an ingredient in an ice melt blend, there are serious risks to using it.

Sodium chloride acts slowly, so surfaces remain dangerously slick: Perhaps waiting for rock salt to melt ice is just an inconvenience that will make you late for work or getting the kids to school. However, people often spread the salt and expect that the icy ground is now safe to walk upon. They don’t wait for the salt to work, step onto the icy surface, slip and fall. US CDC statistics show that up to 30 percent of falls on ice results in broken bones, concussion or death. Falling is the leading cause of injury-related death in older Americans. Veterinarians report tens of thousands of similar injuries to dogs that slip on the ice.

Sodium chloride doesn’t work in extreme cold: As temperatures drop, rock salt gets less and less effective. At about 10 degrees Fahrenheit, it stops melting ice. Salt that isn’t melting the ice gives a false sense of security, often resulting in serious slip-and-fall injuries.

Rock salt rolls from underfoot: Have you ever lost your footing on gravel when it slid? Rock salt’s structure is very similar, and if the salt hasn’t melted into the ice, it is as unsafe as walking on loose gravel.

Sodium chloride is poisonous: Even a little bit of NaCl can harm a child, a pet or wildlife when in rock salt or ice melt form. One reason is that ice melt products aren’t made to the same safety level as table salt and often contains harmful impurities. Illinois Poison Control urges parents to call the center if children even “sample” sodium chloride rock salt or similar ice melt product. When unattended children “sample” rock salt, they like the taste and ingest more. Pets and wildlife like the taste too and can be poisoned. In addition, rock salt ice melt causes irritation and burns to the eyes, skin or paws, mouth, throat and digestive tract.

Ice Melt Safe For Concrete

safe paw ice melt safe for concrete

Safe Paw

The Original and the #1 Child and Pet Safe Ice Melt for over 20 years. Guaranteed environmentally safe – will not harm waterways and sensitive wetlands.

Best Chemical to Melt Ice

The best chemical for melting ice depends on various factors, including temperature, budget, and environmental concerns. Sodium chloride is a popular choice for its affordability and effectiveness in most situations. Calcium chloride is preferred in extremely cold conditions due to its rapid action. Environmentally conscious consumers may opt for alternative products like Safe Paw, a non-toxic, eco-friendly ice melt that is safe for concrete, pets, and the environment.

Safe Paw Ice Melt Alternative

The good news is that Safe Paw is 100% salt-free and safe for kids and pets. In fact, it has received several prestigious recognition as safe for people, pets and the planet.:

  • United States governmental agencies awards
  • Parent Tested Parent Approved (PTPA) Green Product Seal of Approval https://www.ptpamedia.com/services/parent-tested-parent-approved-seal-of-approval/ for products that are family-friendly and effective
  • Inclusion in the Whole Green Catalog http://www.health.com/health/article/0,,20428277,00.html – 1000 Best Things for the Earth

Now you know why Safe Paw is the Best Selling ice melt brand! It is recommended by pediatricians, veterinarians, wildlife experts, groomers, animal shelters, and humane societies.

More good news is that Safe Paw is more effective than sodium chloride ice melt and similar salt-based products. Here’s why the proprietary formula out-performs salt-based ice melt:

  • The outer layer of Safe Paw granules liquefies on contact with ice and begins to penetrate and break up the surface.
  • This allows for the glycol-infused crystalline amide core to sink into the ice, destroying its structure quickly and effectively.
  • Once the ice is melted, it will evaporate, even in freezing temperatures. A coating of Safe Paw is left behind to resist icing on the surface of walkways, steps, porches, decks, patios and anywhere else you need safe, dependable footing.

Pick up Safe Paw today or order it online. You’ll love it, and the pets you love so dearly will be kept safe and healthy from early fall snows through slippery winter ice storms.

Gaia Enterprises Inc. delivers 100% pet-safe and environmentally friendly winter products. Safe Paw, our flagship product, is the #1 selling pet-safe ice melt that does not harm pets, safe if ingested, and safe on all types of concrete.

FAQs

A. Yes, sodium chloride, commonly known as rock salt, does accelerate the melting of ice. It works by lowering the freezing point of water. When applied to ice, it forms a brine solution that has a lower freezing point than plain water. This causes the surrounding ice to melt and prevents new ice from forming, ultimately leading to the clearing of pathways and driveways.

A. Sodium chloride is effective at temperatures above 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6 degrees Celsius). At this temperature and higher, it can efficiently melt ice and snow. However, its effectiveness decreases as temperatures drop. In extremely cold conditions, other de-icing agents like calcium chloride or magnesium chloride may be more suitable.

A. Both calcium chloride and sodium chloride have their advantages and disadvantages. Sodium chloride, or rock salt, is readily available and cost-effective. It works well in most winter conditions but is less effective in extremely cold temperatures. Calcium chloride, on the other hand, is more effective at lower temperatures and works faster. However, it is generally more expensive than sodium chloride. The choice between the two often depends on the specific weather conditions and budget considerations.

A. While sodium chloride is generally considered safe for pets in small quantities, it can be harmful if ingested in larger amounts. Alternative pet-safe ice melt products like Safe Paw are available.

A. Store sodium chloride ice melt in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Ensure the packaging is tightly sealed to prevent clumping.

A. Sodium chloride can be corrosive to certain metals, so use caution around metal surfaces.  It’s corrosive for most surfaces, including concrete and asphalt.

Traction Magic -Instant traction for car tire

Stay safe and confident this winter with Traction Magic!
This innovative, 100% natural product offers instant traction on any icy surface. Whether you’re navigating your sidewalk, steps, or driveway, Traction Magic helps you stay upright and prevents falls.

Other Ice Melt Products

Walk On Ice

Prevent slips at home, work or on the go, The handy disposable canister can be taken everywhere, with the same 100% naturally occurring minerals that provide instant traction on ice or snow.

Walk On Ice - Traction On Ice

Safe Thaw

Imagine an ice melt you can put down and never worry about. It won’t harm pets, kids and your property. That’s Safe Thaw. Unlike anything else on the market, Safe Thaw can change how winter affects our planet.

Safe Thaw - Industrial Ice Melt

Safe Paw Ice Melt In Bulk

Bulk Purchase With Safe Paw


    Become A Safe Paw Distributor


      Buy Now