Britons are being urged to consider a surprising and cheap household item to combat the treacherous ice and snow currently blanketing the UK. As 2026 begins with a severe cold snap, automotive experts have highlighted a simple £2 solution for slippery driveways and paths: cat litter.
The £2 Winter Lifeline You Might Already Own
The UK is in the grip of a freezing start to the year, with sub-zero temperatures and forecasts predicting up to 15 inches of snow in some regions. This has led to hazardous commutes, frozen windscreens, and dangerously slick surfaces right outside homes. While councils grit main roads, many residents are left to tackle icy patches on their own property.
Graham Conway, Managing Director of Select Car Leasing, advocates for a budget-friendly alternative to traditional rock salt. "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," he explained. Unlike salt, which melts ice, the litter acts as miniature grit granules, offering grip even in the deepest cold.
The product is remarkably affordable. A 10-litre bag costs just £2.18 in Aldi, while Tesco sells it for £2.19. "Better still, for households with pets it’s something you may already have in a cupboard at home," Mr Conway added.
Additional Savvy Winter Hacks for Motorists
Beyond the cat litter trick, specialists recommend several other home-based strategies to make winter driving safer and less stressful.
To prevent overnight ice formation on windscreens, create a homemade spray by mixing three parts white vinegar with one part water. Applying this in the evening can dramatically reduce morning ice build-up.
For ice-free wing mirrors, simply cover them with sandwich bags or small bin liners before you retire for the night. In the morning, you can remove the bags to reveal clear mirrors.
It's also wise to keep an old doormat or carpet offcut in your car boot. If your wheels spin on an icy patch, placing the mat under the tyres can provide the crucial extra traction needed to get moving.
Navigating a Perilous Start to 2026
With the mercury plummeting across the nation, these practical tips offer significant relief. "Driving in winter can be tough, especially when the mercury plummets," said Mr Conway. "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."
As families continue to navigate the school run and daily commutes, adopting these simple, cost-effective measures could be the key to safer travel during this ongoing winter freeze.
