People are urged to stop putting salt on icy paths and use £1 item

When icy conditions strike, many people reach for table salt to scatter across their driveways, melting the ice and making pathways safer.

However, one woman insists there’s a simpler solution – and it could save you money too.

TikTok user @boy_and_girl_mama has demonstrated how she uses dishwasher salt rather than table salt to grit her pathways, describing it as a game-changer.

In her clip, she’s shown emptying the final portion of a 3kg bag of Tesco dishwasher salt, priced at £3.75, into a container before sprinkling it across the pathways outside her property.

As temperatures plummet, the Met Office is encouraging people to clear snow and ice from pavements outside their homes or in public areas to reduce the risk of slips and falls.

A statement reads: “Don’t be put off clearing paths because you’re afraid someone will get injured. Remember, people walking on snow and ice have a responsibility to take care themselves.

“Follow the advice from the Department for Transport below to make sure you clear pathways safely and effectively.

“And don’t believe the myths – it’s unlikely you’ll be sued or held legally responsible for any injuries if you have cleared the path carefully.

“It’s easier to remove fresh, loose snow than hard snow that has been compacted by people walking on it.

“So, if possible, start removing snow and ice in the morning. Clearing the top layer early allows any sunshine during the day to help melt ice underneath.

“You can then cover the path with salt before nightfall to stop it refreezing overnight.”

Clear and prevent slips

The Met Office has issued the following advice:

• Take extra care when clearing snow and ice from steps and steep paths, as these areas may require additional salt.

• Use salt or sand rather than water. Water can melt snow initially but may refreeze into black ice, which is invisible, extremely slippery and increases the risk of injury.

• To melt snow or prevent black ice forming, spread salt over the cleared area. Ordinary table salt or dishwasher salt can be used – around one tablespoon per square metre should be sufficient.

• Do not use salt from roadside salting bins unless advised by your local council, as this is needed to keep roads safe. Contact your council for further guidance if needed.

• Avoid spreading salt on plants or grass, as it can cause damage.

• If salt is not available, sand or ash can be used instead. While they are less effective at preventing ice, they provide good grip underfoot.