8 Tips For Keeping A Clean Litter Box

I doubt there has ever been a person who truly enjoys scooping the litter box. It is one of those chores we do because we must, but rarely because we want to. Litter boxes have such a bad reputation that they often get tucked away in basements, laundry rooms, or hidden corners where they are easy to forget. Unfortunately, when litter boxes are out of sight, they can easily become out of mind. And when they are neglected, our cats notice.

Cats have an incredibly strong sense of smell and a deep instinct for cleanliness. A messy box, strong odors, or a poorly lit location can quickly lead to litter box avoidance and unwanted behavioral issues.

The good news is that the most offensive parts of litter box maintenance, the smells and the messes, can be dramatically reduced with a few simple strategies. Your cat will appreciate the effort, and your home will feel fresher, too.

#1 – Choose a Good Location

When it comes to litter box upkeep, “out of sight, out of mind” really does apply. If the box lives in a dark basement or hidden closet, it becomes easier to overlook daily scooping. Instead, place it somewhere visible and easily accessible so you are reminded to clean it consistently.

Choose a quiet but well-lit area where your cat feels safe. Avoid high-traffic zones or loud appliances. The easier it is for both you and your cat to access, the more likely it will stay clean.

Related: 9 Litter Box Mistakes You May Be Making

#2 – Choose the Right Litter

Some cats are particular about litter texture and scent, but if your cat is flexible, you can select an option that best fits your lifestyle.

Many cat owners rely on best-selling clumping litters like Dr. Elsey’s Ultra Unscented Clumping Clay Litter or Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Platinum. Clumping litters typically require daily scooping but only need a full change about once a month.

If you prefer a non-clumping option, PrettyLitter is a popular choice among cat parents. This lightweight, silica-based litter absorbs moisture and helps control odor while allowing you to scoop solids daily. Instead of clumping, it works by drying out waste, and the entire box is typically refreshed about once a month, making it a convenient low-maintenance option for many households.

Think about your schedule and choose the type that makes regular maintenance realistic and manageable.

Related: The Top 7 Reasons Cats Avoid The Litter Box

#3 – Keep Supplies Handy

Make the task as simple as possible by keeping everything within arm’s reach. The basics include:

• A sturdy scoop such as the DuraScoop Original Cat Litter Scoop

• A small brush and dustpan or compact cleaning tool

• A pet-safe spray cleaner

• Paper towels or reusable cleaning cloths

When your supplies are nearby, scooping becomes a quick task instead of a drawn-out chore.

Related: 5 Tips For Controlling Litter Box Odors

#4 – Make Disposal Easy

For many people, the hardest part of scooping is dealing with what comes out of the box. Carrying waste to the outdoor trash every time can feel like just enough of a hassle to cause procrastination.

Best-selling disposal systems like the Litter Genie Platinum Pail or the PetFusion Portable Cat Litter Disposal Container make the process much easier. These systems seal odors and allow you to scoop directly into a lined container beside the box. You only empty it when it is full, which can be every week or two, depending on usage.

Think about how you can simplify disposal. The easier it is, the more consistent you will be.

Related: Think Outside The Box With These Litter Boxes Disguised As Furniture

#5 – Make Cleanup Easy

Even the tidiest cats have occasional accidents or scatter litter outside the box. Be prepared for quick cleanups.

A small broom and dustpan work well, or a compact handheld vacuum like the BLACK+DECKER Dustbuster can make fast work of litter granules. Keep paper towels and a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner on hand for any misses outside the box.

When cleanup tools are readily available, small messes never become big ones.

Related: Is Your Cat Avoiding The Litter Box? Here’s Why!

#6 – Buy a Good Litter Mat

Litter tracking can quickly spread across your floors, especially when the box is located in a central part of your home.

A highly rated option like the Gorilla Grip Cat Litter Trapping Mat or the Pieviev Double Layer Waterproof Litter Mat helps capture granules as your cat steps out of the box. These mats are designed to trap litter in textured grooves or double layers, keeping it contained and making cleanup simple.

A quality mat makes a noticeable difference in keeping your home tidy.

Related: 5 Reasons Your Cat Kicks Litter Out Of The Box

#7 – Consider a Box Liner

If your least favorite part of litter box maintenance is the full dump and scrub, litter box liners can make the process easier.

Best-selling options like Jonny Cat Heavy Duty Litter Box Liners are designed to fit most standard boxes and simplify complete litter changes. However, not all cats appreciate the feel of liners under their paws. Some may claw or avoid the box entirely.

If you decide to try liners, monitor your cat’s behavior closely. If she seems uncomfortable, discontinue use.

Related: 5 Tips To Reduce Litter Tracking And Scatter 

#8 – Create a Routine

The best way to stay on top of litter box cleaning is to make it part of your daily routine. Attach scooping to a habit you already have, such as brushing your teeth or feeding your cat.

Scooping once or twice daily keeps odors under control and prevents buildup. After a few weeks, it will become second nature and take very little thought.

Consistency is the key to a fresh-smelling home and a happy, confident cat.

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A Cleaner Box Means a Happier Cat

At the end of the day, litter box care is about more than just keeping your home smelling fresh. It plays a direct role in your cat’s comfort, confidence, and overall well-being. Cats are naturally clean animals with incredibly sensitive noses, and even small lapses in maintenance can make a big difference from their perspective.

By choosing the right location, selecting a litter that fits your lifestyle, keeping supplies within reach, and making disposal simple, you remove many of the common frustrations that lead to procrastination. Add in tools like a quality litter mat, a convenient disposal system, or liners if your cat tolerates them, and the entire process becomes far more manageable.

Most importantly, consistency is everything. When scooping becomes part of your daily routine, odors stay under control, messes stay minimal, and your cat always has a clean, inviting place to go.

A few small adjustments can completely transform the litter box experience for both of you. And when the box is fresh and stress-free, everyone in the house benefits.