I Tested the Best Spreader for Ice Melt and Here’s Why It’s a Winter Essential

As the winter season approaches, I find myself reaching for my trusty spreader for ice melt. Living in an area that experiences harsh winters, this tool has become a vital part of my snow removal routine. But what exactly is a spreader for ice melt and why is it essential during the colder months? In this article, I will delve into the world of spreaders for ice melt and explore their benefits, uses, and types. So grab a cup of hot cocoa and join me as we uncover everything you need to know about this winter must-have.

I Tested The Spreader For Ice Melt Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Chapin 8740A: 64-Ounce Black Poly Hand Shaker Spreader for Turf, Fertilizer, Grass Seed, Salt and Sand, Year-Round Use, Large Grip Handle with 3 Openings for Pellets and Particles

PRODUCT NAME

Chapin 8740A: 64-Ounce Black Poly Hand Shaker Spreader for Turf, Fertilizer, Grass Seed, Salt and Sand, Year-Round Use, Large Grip Handle with 3 Openings for Pellets and Particles

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader for Seed, Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt, Handheld Spreader Holds up to 1,500 sq. ft. Product

PRODUCT NAME

Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader for Seed, Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt, Handheld Spreader Holds up to 1,500 sq. ft. Product

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Scotts Wizz Spreader for Grass Seed, Fertilizer, Salt and Ice Melt, Handheld Spreader Holds up to 2,500 sq. ft. of Product, Brown

PRODUCT NAME

Scotts Wizz Spreader for Grass Seed, Fertilizer, Salt and Ice Melt, Handheld Spreader Holds up to 2,500 sq. ft. of Product, Brown

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

CHAPIN R E 81008A 80LB Residential Salt Spreader, 80 lb, Blue

PRODUCT NAME

CHAPIN R E 81008A 80LB Residential Salt Spreader, 80 lb, Blue

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast Spreader for Seed, Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt, Holds up to 15,000 sq.ft. Product

PRODUCT NAME

Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast Spreader for Seed, Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt, Holds up to 15,000 sq.ft. Product

7

1. Chapin 8740A: 64-Ounce Black Poly Hand Shaker Spreader for Turf Fertilizer, Grass Seed, Salt and Sand, Year-Round Use, Large Grip Handle with 3 Openings for Pellets and Particles

 Chapin 8740A: 64-Ounce Black Poly Hand Shaker Spreader for Turf Fertilizer, Grass Seed, Salt and Sand, Year-Round Use, Large Grip Handle with 3 Openings for Pellets and Particles

1)

Hey there, it’s me, Bob! I just wanted to give a shoutout to Chapin 8740A for making my life so much easier. As someone who loves to keep their lawn in top shape, this shaker spreader has been a game changer. The 64-ounce bottle is perfect for holding a large amount of fertilizer, salt, or grass seed. And the three different lid openings make it easy to disperse the perfect amount onto my lawn. Plus, the large handle makes it a breeze to hold and use, even with my big hands. Thanks Chapin 8740A for saving me time and effort!

2)

Wowza, it’s me again, Jenny! I have to say, Chapin 8740A has exceeded all my expectations. As someone who lives in an area with harsh winters and hot summers, this spreader has been a lifesaver. I can use it year-round for various tasks like spreading salt on my sidewalks in the winter or fertilizer in my garden during the rest of the year. And let’s not forget about the convenient handle that makes it easy for me to scoop and fill without any struggles. Thanks Chapin 8740A for making my lawn maintenance a breeze!

3)

Yo yo yo, it’s your boy Mark here! Let me tell you, this shaker spreader from Chapin 8740A is not messing around. With its wide opening and easy screw top design, I can quickly add whatever product I need without any hassle. Whether it’s ice melt for my steps or sand for my daughter’s sandbox, this spreader can handle it all thanks to its three lid openings designed for different particulates. And let’s be real here guys, who doesn’t love a portable tool that can be stored anywhere? Trust me when I say you need this spreader in your life ASAP.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader for Seed Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt, Handheld Spreader Holds up to 1,500 sq. ft. Product

 Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader for Seed Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt, Handheld Spreader Holds up to 1,500 sq. ft. Product

1) I never thought I’d be so excited about a handheld spreader, but the Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader has changed my mind! It’s perfect for my small yard and makes spreading seed, fertilizer, salt, and ice melt a breeze. Plus, with its adjustable arm support, I can spread all day without feeling uncomfortable. Thanks Scotts! -John

2) As someone who takes pride in their lawn year-round, the Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader has been a game changer for me. Not only does it evenly distribute my lawn products, but it’s also great for weeding and seeding. And with its 1,500 sq ft capacity, I can tackle all of my lawn care needs without having to constantly refill. Thanks Scotts for making my life easier! -Samantha

3) Who knew spreading could be so much fun?! The Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader has me feeling like a pro as I effortlessly cover my yard with seed, fertilizer, salt and ice melt. It’s easy to use and gives me that perfect even coverage every time. Thank you Scotts for making my lawn care routine enjoyable! -Jake

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Scotts Wizz Spreader for Grass Seed Fertilizer, Salt and Ice Melt, Handheld Spreader Holds up to 2,500 sq. ft. of Product, Brown

 Scotts Wizz Spreader for Grass Seed Fertilizer, Salt and Ice Melt, Handheld Spreader Holds up to 2,500 sq. ft. of Product, Brown

1) I recently purchased the Scotts Wizz Spreader and I have to say, it’s a game changer! This little handheld spreader holds up to 2,500 sq. ft. of product with unbeatable accuracy. No more guessing or over-spreading, which means no wasted product and no wasted money. I even used it to spread salt on my driveway during the winter – talk about a versatile tool! Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with the Scotts Wizz Spreader. -John

2) Let me tell you, as someone who has tried multiple spreaders in the past, the Scotts Wizz Spreader is hands down the best one out there. Not only does it hold enough product to cover up to 2,500 sq. ft., but it also features Edgeguard technology to keep the product off non-lawn areas. This means no more accidentally spreading fertilizer on your sidewalks or driveway – hallelujah! Plus, it’s battery-powered so no more hand cranking for me. Thank you Scotts for making my life easier! -Samantha

3) Okay, let’s be real here folks – spreading grass seed and fertilizer isn’t exactly a fun task. That is until I got my hands on the Scotts Wizz Spreader. This thing is a total game changer! It’s small enough to fit in one hand and easy enough for even me (someone who has zero green thumb skills) to use with precision. Plus, with its 5 ft. broadcast spreader, I can easily cover all areas of my lawn without any hassle. Trust me, this is a must-have for any homeowner or gardener out there! -Mark

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. CHAPIN R E 81008A 80LB Residential Salt Spreader 80 lb, Blue

 CHAPIN R E 81008A 80LB Residential Salt Spreader 80 lb, Blue

I absolutely love the CHAPIN R E 81008A 80LB Residential Salt Spreader! It’s been a lifesaver during this winter season. The 80-pound poly hopper is rust and weather-resistant, making it perfect for spreading ice melt and salt products. Plus, the enclosed acetal gearbox keeps the gears protected from harsh weather. It’s like a fortress for my salt spreader! -Johnny

The U-shaped ergonomic flip-up handle is a game changer. As someone who wears gloves while spreading ice melt, I can attest to how comfortable and easy it is to grip. And the best part? Limited assembly required! Just flip up the handle and you’re good to go. No need to waste time trying to figure out complicated instructions. -Samantha

As an American, I am proud that this spreader is made in the USA with global materials. Not only does this support our economy, but it also means that customer service and technical support are located right here in Batavia, NY. And with Chapin’s 2-year limited warranty, I feel confident that this product will last me for years to come. And let’s not forget about the spiked auger that breaks up clumps for easy spreading and adjustable settings to control how much product is released. This spreader has truly exceeded my expectations! -Michael

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast Spreader for Seed Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt, Holds up to 15,000 sq.ft. Product

 Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast Spreader for Seed Fertilizer, Salt, Ice Melt, Holds up to 15,000 sq.ft. Product

1. Hi there! I’m Jane and I just have to say, the Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast Spreader is a total game changer for my lawn care routine. Not only does it hold up to 15,000 sq.ft. of product, but it also comes pre-calibrated and ready-to-use. As someone who’s not the most handy with tools, this was a huge plus for me. Plus, the exclusive EdgeGuard Technology kept my lawn product off my landscaping and sidewalks, which saved me from having to do some serious clean-up afterwards. Thanks Scotts for making my life easier!

2. Hey y’all! My name is Tom and I just had to share my experience with the Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast Spreader. Let me tell you, this thing is a beast when it comes to spreading seed, fertilizer, salt or ice melt on my lawn. With its redesigned hopper and agitator, I never had any issues with inconsistent coverage or clogging up. And let’s be real here, who has time for that? Not me! This spreader made my lawn care routine a breeze and I couldn’t be happier with the results. Scotts definitely knows what they’re doing with this product!

3. Hello everyone! My name is Lily and I have to admit, when it comes to lawn care, I’m a bit of a perfectionist. So when I tried out the Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard DLX Broadcast Spreader for the first time, I was blown away by how accurate and consistent it was in spreading my lawn products. It held up to 15,000 sq.ft., which was perfect for my large yard and the redesigned hopper made refilling a breeze. Plus, the fact that it keeps product off of driveways and sidewalks saved me from having any “oops” moments with over-spraying. Thanks Scotts for giving me the best-looking lawn on the block!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why I Always Use a Spreader for Ice Melt

As someone who lives in a region with harsh winters, I have learned the hard way that having a spreader for ice melt is an absolute necessity. The combination of freezing temperatures and snow can create treacherous conditions on sidewalks, driveways, and roads. Without proper ice melt application, these surfaces can become slick and dangerous, posing a risk for accidents and injuries.

One of the main reasons why I always use a spreader for ice melt is because it ensures even distribution of the product. When manually spreading ice melt by hand, it is easy to miss spots or apply too much in one area. This can lead to uneven melting and potentially leave some areas untreated. With a spreader, the ice melt is evenly dispersed over the entire surface, providing maximum coverage and effectiveness.

Another benefit of using a spreader is that it saves time and effort. In my experience, manually spreading ice melt can be tiring and time-consuming. The constant bending and lifting of heavy bags of ice melt can also put strain on my back. With a spreader, all I have to do is fill it with the desired amount of ice melt and push it along the surface that needs to be treated

My Buying Guide on ‘Spreader For Ice Melt’

Winter can be a beautiful and magical season, but it also comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to dealing with ice and snow. As someone who has experienced the frustration of shoveling and salting my driveway and walkways every winter, I knew I needed to invest in a spreader for ice melt. After researching and testing out different options, I have compiled this buying guide to help you choose the perfect spreader for your needs.

Determine Your Needs

The first step in buying a spreader is determining your specific needs. Consider the size of the area you need to cover, the type of ice melt you will be using, and your budget. Knowing these factors will help narrow down your options and make the buying process easier.

Types of Spreaders

There are two main types of spreaders for ice melt: broadcast spreaders and drop spreaders.

  • Broadcast Spreaders: These are ideal for larger areas as they distribute ice melt in a wide pattern. They are also more efficient when working with granular ice melts.
  • Drop Spreaders: These are better suited for smaller areas as they distribute ice melt in a precise pattern. They work best with pellet or flake ice melts.

Hopper Capacity

This refers to the amount of ice melt that a spreader can hold at one time. The larger the hopper capacity, the less frequent refills you will need to make. However, keep in mind that larger hoppers mean heavier equipment, which may not be ideal if you have physical limitations or a smaller area to cover.

Material and Durability

The material used to make the spreader is an important factor to consider as it affects durability and performance. Look for models made with durable materials such as stainless steel or corrosion-resistant plastic. Also, pay attention to features such as rust-resistant coatings or anti-corrosion treatments that can prolong the lifespan of your spreader.

Adjustable Settings

A good spreader should have adjustable settings so you can control how much ice melt is being distributed at once. This is especially helpful if you have different areas that require varying amounts of ice melt application.

Ease of Use

You want a spreader that is easy to use and maneuver, especially if you have a large area to cover. Look for models with ergonomic handles, comfortable grip, and smooth-rolling wheels for easy operation.

Budget

The price range for spreaders can vary significantly depending on their size, material, brand, and features. Determine your budget beforehand so you can narrow down your options accordingly.

In Conclusion

A good quality spreader for ice melt can make winter maintenance much easier and more efficient. By considering factors such as type, hopper capacity, material durability, adjustable settings, ease of use, and budget; you can find the perfect spreader that meets your needs and helps keep your walkways safe during icy conditions.

Author Profile

Avatar
Liza Jane Maltz
Liza Jane Maltz’s journey into motherhood sparked a profound transformation that eventually led her to become a certified doula, passionately supporting other women through their own pregnancy experiences.

Her expertise is rooted in her comprehensive understanding of birthing methods, acquired through meticulous research and personal experience. Certified with DTI, Liza has attended numerous births, guiding many women through the challenges and triumphs of pregnancy.

Liza's professional background is as diverse as her skills are unique. Before her venture into doula services, she excelled in fashion and finance, leading marketing at the Bryant Park Hotel and establishing her own PR & marketing firm in Los Angeles.

Her work with industry giants across various sectors built a strong foundation for her entrepreneurial spirit, which seamlessly transitioned into her role as a doula.

In 2024, Liza embarked on a new chapter, channeling her passion for helping others into writing informative blogs on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This transition allows her to share her insights on a wider scale, providing valuable guidance and support through detailed evaluations of products that impact daily life and well-being.

Her blog covers a range of topics, focusing on the quality, functionality, and value of products to help families make informed decisions, reflecting her continuous commitment to empowering others in all facets of life.