5 Tips for Storing Ice-Melt Salt Properly

Many Midwestern organizations stock up on ice-melt products before winter weather strikes. While you play the waiting game, you may wonder: “How does ice melt go bad?” The answer is improper storage. The longevity of Gunther Salt products relies on creating the right conditions for ice melt storage. Read on for our team’s top five tips for properly storing ice-melt salt. 

1. Avoid Moisture

Ice melt containing calcium chloride is hygroscopic — meaning it absorbs moisture from the ground and air. While this quality is helpful in melting ice, unplanned exposure to moisture may result in the product hardening or clumping together. It may also cause the product to activate preemptively, reducing its ability to melt ice when needed later. A bag of 100% salt may also harden if exposed to moisture. 

To avoid exposure to moisture, the Gunther Salt team recommends storing ice-melt products inside and off the ground. Outdoor storage of salt is only acceptable if the product is under a tarp or cover and at least slightly elevated off the ground. 

2. Protect from Sunlight 

Does ice melt go bad from sun exposure? 

The short answer is no, but sunlight can fade the graphics on packaged ice melt. This is not an issue for direct users of the product, but it is something for retailers to be aware of when storing ice-melt salt outside long-term. 

Proper ice melt storage involves keeping your supply indoors and protected from sunlight. At a minimum, we recommend covering your supply with a dark tarp or wrap. 

3. Stabilize the Temperature 

Temperature also plays a substantial role in ice melt longevity. These products often withstand fall and winter weather, but storing ice melt during the warmer spring and summer months may be more challenging. Heat, humidity, and other natural elements may result in the product attracting moisture, which can lead to hardening and clumping. 

Ideally, we recommend storing your ice melt in a temperature-controlled, humidity-free environment such as a garage or storage unit. 

4. Choose Containers Carefully 

If you plan on storing an open bag of ice-melt salt, an airtight container is a must. Airtight containers protect ice melt from humidity, moisture, or other unexpected conditions. We recommend using a bin with a tight covering. If all else fails, a basic ice melt storage option is a tarp covering the product with concrete blocks or sandbags holding the tarp in place around the container. 

Though simple, a reliable container makes a distinct difference in the quality of your product throughout the seasons. As an added plus, storing ice melt in containers lets you label each by purchase date and ensure the use of the oldest products first. 

5. Conduct Regular Checks 

How does ice melt go bad if you follow the tips above?

Unexpected accidents may still occur throughout the year. Maybe your container broke, your garage flooded, or your air conditioning went out — whatever it may be, promptly addressing storage issues may help you avoid product waste.

We recommend conducting regular checks of your ice-melt salt supply. Even if you do it once a month, a quick check may make all the difference. 

Order Gunther’s Ice-Melt Salt

While this blog covers the basics of storing ice melt, we understand you may have additional questions before severe weather approaches. Luckily, the Gunther Salt Company team is readily available to provide you with clarity. 

For more information on our products, processes, and ice melt storage recommendations, contact Gunther at 314-241-7075 or sales@gunthersalt.com.