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Best Salt Spreaders

Updated May 2023
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Scotts Elite Spreader
Scotts
Elite Spreader
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Best for Big Areas
Bottom Line

This 2-wheeled rolling spreader is the ideal answer for handling big areas easily and with minimum effort.

Pros

Holds up to 20,000 sq. feet of spreadable product, such as seed, fertilizer, or salt. Dual rotor action achieves impressively accurate 6-foot spread. Rolling cart design boasts never-flat tires for any terrain. Comfortable handle includes smartphone holder.

Cons

Needs minor assembly. Material can build up between wheels.

Best Bang for the Buck
Scotts Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader
Scotts
Whirl Hand-Powered Spreader
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Handheld Convenience
Bottom Line

This handheld spreader works in all seasons to spread seed, fertilizer, or salt and comes with a comfy arm support.

Pros

Handheld spreader. Comfortable grip boasts arm support to reduce fatigue. Simple trigger mechanism with hand crank to evenly distribute salt and other contents. Comes pre-assembled. Water-resistant plastic parts.

Cons

Coverage and distribution is dependent on the speed of walking and rotation.

Buyers Products Grounds Keeper Walk Behind Spreader
Buyers Products
Grounds Keeper Walk Behind Spreader
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Good for Paths
Bottom Line

A 2-wheeled push-along walk-behind salt spreader designed for keeping paths and walkways clear.

Pros

Durable polymer hopper won't rust or dent. Holds 100 pounds of material for spreading. Axle-activated spinner works with motion for simplicity. Simple lever controls material flow. Twenty-four-foot range. Welded steel frame with pneumatic tires.

Cons

A little pricey. Some reviews note parts can come off during use.

Spot Spreader Hand Spreader
Spot Spreader
Hand Spreader
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Step Up Simplicity
Bottom Line

Step up from the old milk jug spreader method with this sturdy 3-setting pitcher-type model.

Pros

Extremely simple, straightforward design and operation. Made of durable plastic. Rotating grille allows selection of coarse, fine, or bulk pouring. Easy to fill. Twist-lock lid with integrated contoured handle.

Cons

Limited capacity. Some find the twist-lock lid hard to open and close.

Buyers Products All-Purpose Broadcast Spreader
Buyers Products
All-Purpose Broadcast Spreader
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For ATVs
Bottom Line

This motorized hopper spreader attaches to any ATV and allows you to spread seed, salt, or fertilizer.

Pros

Big 100-pound capacity hopper. Designed to mount in ATV utility rack. Boasts enclosed 12V motor. Adjustable material flow lever provides precise control over distribution. Comes with rain cover.

Cons

Can be a challenge to mount on tractors or riding mowers. Salt can block opening when damp.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

62
Models
Considered
60
Consumers
Consulted
30
Hours
Researched
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When the snow is out, you need salt for the roads. Icy conditions and cold temperatures make it easy for ice to pile up on asphalt and concrete surfaces. A salt spreader can help you combat and prevent ice buildup. Beyond safety, this can also make it easier to shovel snow from the driveway and sidewalks. Most models are walk-behind spreaders you manually push to move. If you have a truck, ATV, or a tractor, other spreaders are towable for roads or larger areas you need to cover. Vehicle-mounted spreaders are the best for covering entire streets or neighborhoods – so everyone on the street will be happy.