Kitty Litter to Make Ice Less Slippery

Ingredients

• Different cat litter brands contain different ingredients; however, each use certain common ingredients. All cat litter brands use clay to absorb and clump. They also contain borates, minerals that contain the naturally occurring element, Boron, to help balance the pH of cat urea and feces, control fungus and bacteria, and also have a bleaching effect. Silica gel is also included to absorb liquids, and to later allow the liquids to evaporate. Many kitty litters contain carbon to help absorb odors, along with a covering fragrance. The clay, silica and additional minerals of kitty litter help provide traction for walking on ice.

Kitty Litter versus Salt

• Kitty litter doesn't melt snow. It absorbs liquids and is rough enough to grip snow or ice, providing traction. Salt is used to melt ice and snow in the winter, as it chemically raises the melting point of water. Kitty litter and salt are used for different purposes. However, salt and cat litter can be used together, to effectively melt ice while providing traction for those walking on it. The litter will eventually absorb enough water to soften, so it needs to be replenished often.

How to Use Kitty Litter for Traction

• When ice is too slippery to walk on, use clean kitty litter to provide traction. Open the bag of litter. Use a plastic scoop to sprinkle a thin layer of litter on the ground in front of you as you walk along. Kitty litter also helps a car stuck in the snow. Shovel as much snow from under the tires as possible. Sprinkle a thick layer of litter just behind each tire. When you start the car, the litter will help the tires gain traction so that you can back your car out of the snow.

Alternative Uses

• Cat litter has other uses around the home. Litter is designed to absorb smells and moisture. Use the clean kitty litter to soak up fresh grease, oil and other spills around your household. It will also soak up old grease spots and stains in your garage and kitchen. Pour a small amount of paint thinner on the stain to soak into it and top with clean kitty litter. Leave the mixture on for 12 hours and sweep up.