The best option for old ice melt is often to donate it to a local organization that can use it.
Options for Disposing of or Using Old Ice Melt
If you have leftover ice melt from the winter season, here are several options for handling it responsibly:
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Donate to Local Municipalities or Organizations: Contact your local city or town services, public works department, or neighborhood association. They may have a need for extra ice melt, especially if they experienced a harsh winter and depleted their supplies. This is often the most environmentally responsible and beneficial way to get rid of excess ice melt.
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Store for Next Season: If the ice melt is still in good condition (dry and not contaminated), store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for use next winter. This prevents waste and saves you money.
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Consider its Composition: Different ice melts have different compositions.
- Rock Salt (Sodium Chloride): While effective, rock salt can be harmful to plants, concrete, and pets in large quantities. Avoid using it near vegetation.
- Calcium Chloride, Magnesium Chloride, or Potassium Chloride: These are generally considered safer for plants and concrete than rock salt, but they can still cause harm in high concentrations.
- Consider Environmentally Friendly Options: Ice melts containing CMA (Calcium Magnesium Acetate) are considered to be the safest for the environment.
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Use Sparingly: Even "safer" ice melts should be used sparingly to minimize potential environmental impact.
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Avoid Disposal in Drains or Waterways: Do not dispose of ice melt down storm drains, sinks, or directly into waterways. This can contaminate the water supply and harm aquatic life.
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Check Local Regulations: Some municipalities have regulations regarding the disposal of certain types of ice melt. Check with your local authorities for specific guidelines.
By considering these options, you can responsibly manage your old ice melt and minimize its environmental impact.
