Winter wonderland can quickly turn into a shovel land when your driveway and sidewalks are buried under snow. While snow cleanup is an inevitable part of winter living, it doesn’t have to be a back-breaking chore. With a few clever tricks up your sleeve, you can clear the snow more efficiently, saving time and effort, and maybe even having a bit of fun along the way. Let’s explore some simple yet brilliant hacks to make your snow cleanup a breeze!
The Preemptive Strike: Cooking Spray on the Shovel
Before you start shoveling, spray your shovel with cooking oil or silicone lubricant. This slick trick prevents snow from sticking to the shovel, making each scoop smoother and faster.
DIY Snow-Melting Solutions
Why wait for the snow to melt naturally when you can speed up the process? Mix a solution of one teaspoon of dish soap, one tablespoon of rubbing alcohol, and half a gallon of hot water. Pour it over your walkways to quickly melt the snow and ice.
The Tarp Trick
If snowfall is predicted, lay a tarp over your driveway or sidewalk. Once the snow stops, you can simply drag the tarp to the side, snow and all, revealing a clear pathway underneath.
Leaf Blower to the Rescue
For light, powdery snow, ditch the shovel and grab your leaf blower. It’s a quick and effortless way to clear your decks, walkways, and even your car.
Snow Rake for Your Roof
Heavy snow on your roof can be a hazard. Use a snow rake with an extendable handle to safely remove snow without climbing onto the roof.
Salt Smartly
While salt is great for melting ice, too much can damage surfaces and harm pets’ paws. Use it sparingly, and consider pet-safe and eco-friendly alternatives like calcium chloride or sand for traction.
Heated Mats: An Electric Solution
For a high-tech approach, invest in heated mats that you can lay on walkways and driveways. They’ll keep the snow from accumulating, saving you the trouble of shoveling.
Snowblower Efficiency
If you use a snowblower, start in the middle of the area you’re clearing and blow the snow outward. This method reduces the number of passes you need to make.
The Power of Pickle Brine
Here’s a salty secret: pickle brine can prevent ice from forming on surfaces. Spray it on your walkways before a snowstorm to make subsequent cleanup easier.
Shovel Right
When shoveling, push the snow rather than lifting it when possible. This reduces strain on your back. Remember to take breaks and stay hydrated.
Snow Big Deal!
With these hacks, snow cleanup can be more manageable, efficient, and maybe even a little fun. So next time the snow starts to fall, you’ll be ready to tackle it with confidence and ease.
Bundle up, gear up, and remember: with the right approach, snow cleanup is snow problem at all!
By Stanislav Kondrashov
