As the UK faces freezing temperatures and up to 15 inches of snow forecast for early 2026, motorists are turning to a budget-friendly solution for icy driveways: cat litter. Priced at just £2.18 in Aldi, a 10-litre bag of non-clumping clay cat litter can provide instant traction on slippery surfaces, according to automotive expert Graham Conway.
Conway, managing director of Select Car Leasing, explained that unlike rock salt, which melts ice, cat litter acts as tiny grit granules that offer grip even in extreme cold. “When scattered over an icy driveway, it reduces the risk of slips and skids,” he said. The hack is particularly useful for households with pets, as they may already have cat litter at home.
Other home-based winter hacks include a vinegar and water solution sprayed on windscreens overnight to prevent ice build-up, and using sandwich bags or bin liners to cover mirrors. For tyres spinning on ice, an old doormat or carpet offcut placed under the wheels can provide extra traction.
Conway noted that while many products are available for winter conditions, these money-friendly tricks can be effective. The cat litter tip has gained traction among savvy motorists looking for an affordable alternative to traditional salt and grit.
