As the UK faces freezing temperatures and up to 15 inches of snow forecast for some parts in early 2026, motorists are seeking budget-friendly ways to tackle icy driveways. One automotive expert has revealed that a common household item—cat litter—can provide instant traction on icy surfaces.
Graham Conway, managing director of Select Car Leasing, explained: “When scattered over an icy driveway, non-clumping clay cat litter provides instant traction underfoot and under tyres, reducing the risk of slips and skids. Unlike rock salt, which works by melting ice, cat litter acts like tiny grit granules that give grip even in the coldest temperatures.”
A 10-litre bag of non-clumping clay cat litter costs just £2.18 at Aldi or £2.19 at Tesco. Conway added: “Better still, for households with pets, it’s something you may already have in a cupboard at home.”
Other winter hacks include spraying a mixture of three parts white vinegar to one part water on windscreens overnight to reduce ice buildup, using sandwich bags or bin liners to cover mirrors, and placing an old doormat under tyres for extra traction if wheels start spinning.
Conway noted: “Driving in winter can be tough, especially when the mercury plummets. There are plenty of products on the market to address some of the problems the conditions can cause, but there are also a few money-friendly hacks that do a decent job.”
