With forecasters warning of snow and plunging temperatures across Britain, homeowners are scrambling for solutions to keep their driveways and pathways safe. Icy surfaces pose a serious slip hazard, but the traditional remedy of rock salt may be causing more harm than good.
The Problem with Traditional Salt
Bill Jarvis, a driveway expert from Premium Paints, has issued a stark warning about the widespread use of salt for de-icing. While effective in the short term, he explains that salt is corrosive and can inflict lasting damage on your property.
"Homeowners often panic at the first sign of frost and grab bags of salt," said Jarvis. "It works, but it's harsh. Over time, it can eat into concrete and block paving, leave unsightly white stains, and strip away protective sealant coatings." He also highlighted the broader environmental and practical downsides, noting salt can corrode shoes and car undercarriages, harm nearby plants, and create a general mess.
A Gentler, Cheaper DIY Solution
Instead of reaching for the salt bag, Jarvis advocates for a simple homemade spray that is kinder to surfaces, wildlife, and your wallet. The magic ingredient? Isopropyl alcohol, commonly known as rubbing alcohol.
"There's a much cheaper, faster, and gentler way to tackle ice," Jarvis stated. "This rubbing-alcohol solution is far more considerate and incredibly cheap. A few minutes of prep with household items is far better than an hour of scraping or paying to repair damaged driveways."
How to Make Your Own De-icing Spray
The recipe, shared on 4th December 2025, requires just three easy-to-find components:
- Two parts water
- One part isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol), available for around £1.50 per bottle
- A small squeeze of washing-up liquid
Combine all the ingredients in a standard spray bottle. When icy conditions strike, simply spritz the mixture directly onto frozen patches on paths, steps, or driveways.
Why This Winter Hack Works
The science behind this effective method is straightforward. The alcohol significantly lowers the freezing point of water, causing the ice to melt rapidly upon contact. Meanwhile, the washing-up liquid acts as a surfactant, helping the solution to spread and adhere to the icy surface for better coverage and effectiveness.
Jarvis champions this approach as a superior alternative. "It's simple, fast, and almost free," he concluded. "A classic winter hack that actually works, protecting both your property and your safety during the coldest months." As Britain braces for a harsh winter, this DIY spray offers a practical and economical line of defence against treacherous ice.
