UK households facing icy and snowy conditions urged to try the ‘surprising hack’
A household item that can be bought for £2 in supermarkets has been revealed as a key weapon in the war against icy driveways this winter. The UK is currently experiencing freezing temperatures and perilous driving conditions as 2026 begins with sub-zero figures and up to 15 inches of snow forecast for some parts.
That means treacherous drives, frozen windscreens and slippery front paths for Brits battling against the elements on their commute to work or school drop-off. While councils do their best to grit main roads, many are left dealing with the icy patches right outside their homes.
Some take the standard approach of buying their own hefty bags of salt and grit. However, it isn’t cheap, convenient, or readily available, especially when demand surges during a sudden cold snap.
Automotive specialists have revealed a budget-friendly winter trick that’s gaining traction among savvy motorists. They recommend buying a bag of cat litter, even if you don’t own a cat.
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 costs £2.18 in Aldi. Meanwhile, Tesco shoppers can find it on the shelves for just a penny more at £2.19.
Mr Conway added: “Better still, for households with pets it’s something you may already have in a cupboard at home.” However, cat litter isn’t the only home-based hack that can make winter driving safer and less stressful.
De-ice windscreen with homemade spray. Mix three parts white vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle and cover your windscreen in the evening to prevent ice forming overnight. It won’t completely replace scraping but it can dramatically reduce build-up.
Plastic bags over wing mirrors. Sandwich bags or small bin liners are also ideal. Attach before you go to bed and in the morning you’ll remove them to reveal ice-free mirrors.
Keep a spare doormat in your boot. If your wheels start spinning on an icy drive, slide an old doormat or even a carpet offcut under the tyres. This will give you the extra traction to get moving.
Mr Conway said: “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.”
