Quick Take (Best Overall Pick)
If I had to pick one de-icer broadly for homeowners in Ontario, GroundWorks Natural Ice Melter is the top choice. It balances strong melting performance, gentler action on concrete, and better safety for pets and landscaping.
Below, each product gets its own breakdown. I compare them to GroundWorks and show where they shine (or fall short).
GroundWorks Natural Ice Melter
Why It Stands Out:
GroundWorks is a “natural blend” ice melter with lower chloride content. It performs well at moderate cold temperatures and is safer on surfaces, plants, and pets. It’s a nice balance of performance and gentleness.
Quick Comparison to Others
| Feature | GroundWorks | Others vs GroundWorks |
|---|---|---|
| Low Temp Performance | Moderate | Some rivals beat it in deep cold |
| Surface Safety | High | Some others are harsher |
| Pet / Plant Safety | High | Some are riskier in heavy use |
| Cost per Use | Mid | Some are cheaper, some more expensive |
Link: https://www.xynyth.com/products-tabs/gni/groundworks-natural.html
Alaskan Premium Ice Melter
What It Does Well:
Alaskan is built for heavier duty use. It melts stronger and at colder temps, making it a go-to on big driveways or after heavy storms.
Comparison vs GroundWorks
| Feature | Strength | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Cold-Temp Performance | Very good | Use more cautiously on surfaces |
| Speed | Faster melt | Slightly more risk of residue or corrosion |
| Safety | Moderate | More aggressive on concrete/plants |
Link: https://www.alaskan.ca/products/premium-ice-melter
Meltco Premium Eco-Friendly Deicer
What It Does Well:
Meltco leans more on “eco” side — safer formulas, gentler action, but still adequate melting. Good option if you want to reduce chemical stress on lawn, plants, or sensitive surfaces.
Comparison vs GroundWorks
| Feature | Strength | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Pet / Plant Safety | Slight edge | May take longer to melt thick ice |
| Residue / Corrosion | Low | Might require more product |
| Cost per Use | Slightly higher | In exchange for gentler effect |
Link: https://www.meltcoinc.com/options/meltco-premium
Safe-T-Salt Ice Melt
What It Does Well:
Safe-T-Salt markets itself as safer for concrete, pets, and surfaces. If you worry about damage or residue, this is one to consider.
Comparison vs GroundWorks
| Feature | Strength | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Surface / Pet Safety | Possibly better in some conditions | May not melt as fast |
| Residue | Lower | Might need reapplication in deep ice |
| Cost | Moderate | Balanced option |
Link: https://windsorsalt.com/home-product/windsor-safe-t-salt/
SuperTech Premium Ice Melter
What It Does Well:
Solid mid-range performer. Good melting power and decent safety. It’s a balanced option if you want strong melt without going to extremes.
Comparison vs GroundWorks
| Feature | Strength | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Cold Performance | Good | Some others outperform in extreme cold |
| Cost | Good value | Slightly harsher than natural blends |
| Surface Safety | Moderate | Use carefully on delicate surfaces |
Link: https://www.walmart.ca/en/ip/supertech-premium-ice-melter-10kg/6000204512013
Other Products You Might Use
- Alaskan Liquid Ice Preventer — useful for pre-treating surfaces so ice doesn’t bond.
- Submersible / specialty deicers — good for docks, steps, or specialty spots (not entire driveways).
Each has its niche—don’t expect one solution to beat all in every scenario.
Choosing Based on Your Needs
- Focus on safety? Go with GroundWorks or Safe-T-Salt.
- Need heavy-duty melt power? Alaskan or SuperTech.
- Want eco / gentler option? Meltco is a good pick.
- Pre-treatment use? Liquid formulas (like Preventer) help reduce ice bonding.
Final Word
GroundWorks wins for overall balance—good performance, safer handling, and less risk of damage. But if you need stronger melt under harsh conditions, brands like Alaskan or SuperTech make sense. Use the comparison sections above to decide which fits your priorities best.
If you like, I can turn this into a “Pet-Safe De-Icers Comparison” blog (just the safe