Setting down a layer of snow and ice melt (i.e., deicers) on your driveways and walkways before a snowstorm hits can save you a lot of time shoveling or snow blowing. Don’t worry, with just a little bit of information under your belt, you can choose the best ice melt for the job. Knowing the difference between the ingredients that power your snow and ice melts is important when choosing the right one for you. Types of Ice and Snow MeltSometimes referred to as a deicer and often simply called “salt,” ice and snow melts can be made of different chemical compounds or blended to take advantage of their different attributes. Typical Types of Snow and Ice MeltThese are some of the most common types of compounds used for melting ice and snow.