I use a 65p trick to de-ice my driveway in the freezing weather – it’s better than chemicals & cheaper too
THE weather has become particularly cold this week leading much of the UK to be hit with snow and ice.
And if that's the case, you'll want to make sure your driveway isn't slippery to make travel safe.
If you prefer to keep chemicals off your driveway then de-icing solutions aren't for you.
Not only do these products tend to cost a lot, but they can also cause damage to your driveways.
Instead, the experts recommend using a baking soda solution.
READ MORE ON WINTER HACKS
A spokesperson explained: "Choosing to melt ice with a solution including baking soda instead of a commercial de-icer has some real perks.
"It has a lower price tag, fewer chemicals, and chances are, you already have it in your kitchen."
Baking soda is less alkaline than salts found in de-icers, making it more gentle to use on surfaces such as brick, concrete and metal to prevent damage.
The experts added: "Baking soda is the least abrasive corrosive option compared to salt, cat litter, or commercial de-icers.
"It's safer for your driveway, neighbouring plants, garden, and pets, and you don't need to worry about long-term damage from harsh chemicals."
You can purchase baking soda for as little as 65p from Asda, and if you want to make the solution yourself, read on.
The first step is to take 100g of baking soda and 4.5 litres of warm water.
combine the two in a large container, stirring until the baking soda dissolves.
Once done, pour or spray the solution directly onto icy surfaces like driveways, pathways, garden walkways, or patios.
After a few minutes, the ice should start to melt.
To prevent the ice from refreezing again, you can pour some sand on the previously icy surface, this will help improve grip and further reduce the risk of slipping.
5 Money-saving tips for autumn/winter
1. Draught-proof your home
It takes time and money to heat up your home, so it’s important that you do as much as you can to keep in the warmth. Close your doors and windows, and fill any gaps with a draught excluder.
2. Dial down your thermostat
According to Energy UK, turning down your thermostat by just one degree Celsius could cut your heating bill by up to 10%, and save you around £85 per year. Plus, if you don’t have a thermostat, installing one could save up to £70 per year!
3. Move furniture around
Make sure not big, bulky furniture like sofas are blocking radiators.
4. Wash clothes on a lower temp and add an extra spin
Unless it's bedding, towels or really dirty items, dial down the temperature to 20 or 30 degrees, and do a double spin to remove excess water.
5. Heat the person not the home
There's not point heating up a room that no one is sitting in, so be mindful about which radiators are on.