Why These 4 Items Including Raw Potatoes Are the Best New England Snow and Ice Winter Hacks

Finding those killer life hacks to help us get through our harsh New England winters is a treasure upon itself, especially in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. And especially if they're cheap and easy.

These aren't something we necessarily go in search of, so let me introduce you to four that will possibly change your life.

Raw Potatoes

Yes, potatoes are for more than just eating. Thanks to the Farmers Almanac, all you do is slice a raw potato in half and rub it on your windshield the night before a storm. It'll help fight the ice from forming.

Coffee Grinds or Cat Litter

Did you run out of salt? Well, hopefully, you're a coffee drinker because coffee grinds work too. They add a rough surface to those slippery walkways and the acid helps melt the ice. According to 12 Tomatoes, it works wonders. Meanwhile, cat litter also works. Even sprinkling it behind tires will help a stuck car.

Cooking Spray or Vegetable Oil

Ugh, shoveling is one of the most frustrating parts of winter especially when you have a tough time getting the shovel through the snow. According to First For Women, spraying or rubbing vegetable oil or cooking spray on your shovel makes the shoveling so much easier. According to accuweather.com, it acts like a lubricant, preventing the snow from sticking to the shovel.

Meanwhile, Massachusetts's own Bob Vila recommends cooking spray to unclog snow blowers before you start them, or once you've cleared any snow after you're finished. Again, it's all about keeping the snow from sticking and making your life so much easier.

Hand Sanitizer

OK, who doesn't have hand sanitizer at the ready these days? And now it has another use, deicing frozen locks. According to Getjerry.com, this helps thaw the ice pretty quickly so you can open up your door.