Unusual uses for cat litter when RVing

Kitty litter does so much more than its intended use. That’s why many RVers (even those without cats) pack along kitty litter for their travels.

Check out these unusual uses for kitty litter when RVing!

Moisture control

Depending on where you roam, humidity can quickly cause your rig to smell damp or musty. Non-clumping litters (like silica or crystal styles) work wonders as passive desiccants. All you do is open a container of litter and place it in the back of wardrobes, under sinks, or inside cabinets to absorb moisture.

Keep odors in check

Baking-soda-infused or crystal litters are excellent odor-control agents. Sprinkle kitty litter in the bottom of your RV trash cans. Not only will it absorb any liquid that leaks out of the bin liner, but it will also neutralize odors!

If hiking boots or pickleball sneakers develop funky smells, it’s kitty litter “sachets” to the rescue.

Make a “kitty litter sachet” like this: Put a cup of the litter inside a clean, old sock. Tie securely closed. Then put a “sachet” inside each stinky shoe or boot. The kitty litter will absorb odors in time for tomorrow’s hike.

If you’re a full-time RVer, you can put a “sachet” of litter inside the box of off-season clothing. When you retrieve the clothes months later, they will smell fresh instead of musty.

Emergency cleanup

Kitty litter is a fast and effective absorbent. Sprinkle it over a mess, like spilled sports drinks, vomit, or even cooking oil spills. Let the litter absorb the spill and then sweep it up. This trick helps prevent stains and minimizes slippery surfaces.

In this same way, if water spills on your RV carpet and you can’t seem to completely blot out the water using a towel, sprinkle kitty litter over the area. Within a few hours, the litter will absorb the moisture. Vacuum up the litter and you’re done.

Extra traction

Snow, ice, or even slick grass has the potential to stall your RV. Shovel non-clumping litter around tires, and the litter will provide enough grip to get moving.

Dry out wet gear

Camping boots, gloves, and towels can get damp from dew or rain. Toss them in a sealed bin along with a couple of cups of kitty litter to absorb moisture overnight. Then, air them out in the morning.

Oil cleanup

If your RV develops an oil or fluid leak, kitty litter can absorb fresh oil drips before they spread. Sprinkle litter under the engine bay or leak point. The kitty litter will wick up fluids quickly and then you can simply sweep it away. More on that here.

Fridge freshener

Place a small container of no odor, clay-based kitty litter inside your RV refrigerator. The litter will absorb smells.

Bakeware cleanser

Use dry, clumping litter as a non-toxic abrasive. Add a scoop into a greasy pan and fill it with warm water. Let it soak for a few hours. The litter can help loosen baked-on residue safely without harsh chemicals or scrubbing.

Tool sharpener

The fine grit in non-clumping, hard clay litter can help buff and sharpen metal tools and axes. Run each blade through the litter several times, then wipe clean.

Plant helper

If you like to decorate your RV’s outdoor space with potted plants, you’ll love how kitty litter can help. You can add kitty litter to soil, and it will assist with moisture retention. You can also sprinkle kitty litter on top of the soil to keep snails and slugs away from your flowers.

Smoker’s solution

Sprinkle non-flammable (clay-based) kitty litter in the bottom of a container. Then use the container like an ashtray. The litter will absorb smells and keep them away, too.

Antiquer’s dream

If you love to collect old books or vintage clothing, you need kitty litter! It can remove any moldy or musty smell. Pour kitty litter into a sealable container. Place your antique treasure inside the box and seal it closed. After a day or so, your books or items will smell much fresher.

What litter is best?

Kitty litter comes in different forms. Many RVers prefer the unscented or fragrance-free litter type. This is because the smell of others can trigger sensitive noses in a confined RV space.

You can also purchase low-dust kitty litter. This litter is usually heat-treated and will keep the air inside your RV cleaner.

Some litter comes in granule form. This is the best litter to use for absorbency, and it leaves minimal tracking inside your rig.

The cost of kitty litter varies. Talk to other RVers who travel with their cats. Ask them for recommendations, if needed.

Final tips

Kitty litter can be a versatile helper when RVing. It won’t take up much space if you empty kitty litter into gallon zip-type plastic bags. Remove excess air and store the bags flat in the bottom of a cupboard or basement area. That way, the kitty litter will be nearby when you need it.

Remember to clearly label your bag (“Not for kitty use!”) and swap it out every few months for peak effectiveness.

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