As the UK braces for a bitter winter, households are being urged to tackle the dangerous slip hazards created by icy paths and driveways. With the Met Office warning of 'extensive snow' and plummeting temperatures, the risk of treacherous 'black ice' is significantly increasing.
The Danger of Black Ice and Common Mistakes
The latest forecasts predict a sharp temperature drop across the country, creating perfect conditions for black ice. This thin, transparent layer of ice is notoriously difficult to spot and poses a serious risk of injury. Many people instinctively reach for a kettle of hot water to melt ice, but this method is counterproductive. The water can quickly refreeze, creating an even more hazardous surface and merely postponing the problem.
A Natural and Affordable Alternative
While rock salt is the traditional go-to for de-icing, supermarket shelves can often be cleared out during a cold snap. Experts are now pointing shoppers towards a surprising and cheap alternative found in the baking aisle: bicarbonate of soda, available for just 65p for a 200g pack at retailers like Aldi and Lidl.
A spokesperson for Lottomart, which recommends the solution, highlighted its multiple benefits: "Using a mix that includes baking soda rather than a standard de-icer brings several advantages. It’s inexpensive, kinder to surfaces, and most homes already have a box tucked away in the cupboard."
How to Make and Use Your Own De-icer
Creating this effective de-icing solution is simple and requires only half a pack of baking soda, making it an incredibly budget-friendly option.
The recipe is straightforward:
- Measure out roughly 100g (about half a cup) of baking soda.
- Combine it with 4.5 litres of warm water in a bucket.
- Stir thoroughly until the powder has fully dissolved.
You can then apply the mixture directly onto icy patches using a watering can, jug, or spray bottle. The chemical reaction that makes cakes rise also works to lower the freezing point of water, helping the ice to break down quickly after a short wait.
The spokesperson added that baking soda is a much gentler choice compared to salt or harsher commercial products. "It’s far less aggressive on paths, plants, and garden surfaces - and it’s a much friendlier choice for pets underfoot," they noted.
For extra grip and to prevent refreezing, a light sprinkling of sand is recommended. In a pinch, used coffee grounds can also provide more stable footing, making the most of items you already have at home.
