A fresh blanket of snow makes for a beautiful winter wonderland, but it’s what comes after the flurry that you need to worry about. Road salt is used in snow removal to melt ice and keep surfaces from becoming slippery. It does its job well, but it also stains everything it touches. From your shoes to your floors, salt stains are difficult to get rid of. If you don’t want to spend winter staring at chalky white stains, try these tips to keep things clean.

3 Professional Snow Removal Tips for Removing Salt Stains

1. Floors

Road salt will put microscopic scratches in the floor and dull the finish. Your first prerogative should be placing large waterproof mats by the door. Immediately soak up water that could contain salt. If stains set in, spray the area with a mixture of warm water and vinegar. Wait a few minutes, and then use a mop or towel to clean up the mess.

2. Clothing

If your clothes are built for winter—like most snow boots and water-repellent winter coats—you can wipe them clean with a damp cloth. For other clothing items, you’ll need either an inexpensive hairbrush or a soft-bristled clothing brush. Wait until the salt is completely dry and then gently brush the fabric to remove the stain.

3. Cars

Cars are usually the worst hit when it comes to salt stains because the city snow removal team starts coating roads as soon as the flakes start falling. If it’s only a light layer of salt, use a soft cloth dipped in a bucket of warm water and vinegar. If your entire vehicle is white, taking a turn through the car wash is your only real option.

Residents in Anchorage, AK are used to harsh winters, and they trust GMG General for all their snow removal needs. When the roads are clean, they specialize in driveway paving and concrete. But when the snow falls, they use professional snow removal equipment to keep clients safe. Call them at (907) 349-7854 or visit their website to sign up for services.