There’s nothing worse than stepping out of your home as you would normally without realising it’s icy and slipping. Even if you don’t fall over properly, the act of almost falling to the ground can elevate your heart rate for quite some time.
However, there’s a household item that can be bought for just £2 in supermarkets that could be a key way to prevent your driveway from becoming too perilous. 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. And, while councils do their best to grit main roads, many are left dealing with the icy patches right outside their homes, making smaller roads scary to drive down, and driveways tricky too.
Some take the standard approach of buying their own hefty bags of salt and grit. But it isn’t cheap, convenient or readily available, especially when demand soars during a sudden cold snap.
However, one automotive expert has revealed a budget-friendly winter trick that’s gaining traction among savvy motorists – cat litter.
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, while Tesco shoppers can find it on the shelves for just a penny more at £2.19.
Graham added: “Better still, for households with pets, it’s something you may already have in a cupboard at home.” Cat litter isn’t the only home-based hack that can make winter driving safer and less stressful.
There are also some other things you can do to make your life easier too.
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 from 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.
Graham 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.”
