Sand vs Kitty Litter For Traction
Sand and kitty litter are both popular options for traction. They’re relatively inexpensive, but there are some key differences between the two. Many people think that using their best deicer for concrete is the only solution to deal with snow and ice. Not everyone knows that there are traction agents other than your best cat litter for snow traction and sand.
Does Kitty Litter Get You Out of Snow?
Kitty litter is often hailed as a versatile household item, and many people wonder if it can be used to get a stuck vehicle out of snow. The answer is yes, to some extent. Kitty litter can provide traction on packed snow or ice, which may help your tires grip the road and get your vehicle moving again. However, it’s not a miracle solution and may not work as effectively as other dedicated traction aids.
Pros and Cons of Kitty Litter:
The pros and cons of using kitty litter for snow traction include:
- Kitty litter is more expensive.
- Kitty litter is messier. It’s easier to track kitty litter out of the box than sand, which means that it’s also easier to make a mess of your floors and carpets if you’re not careful when handling it (and even if you are).
What Is Sand Used For in Snow?
Sand serves various purposes when dealing with snow and ice:
- Traction: Sand is spread on roads, driveways, and sidewalks to provide traction on icy surfaces, reducing the likelihood of slipping or skidding.
- Weight: In some cases, sand is used in vehicles or spread in the bed of trucks to add weight and improve stability when driving on icy roads.
- Abrasion: Sand can be used to create friction and break down ice or snow, making it easier to remove with plows or shovels.
Pros and Cons of Sand:
Sand for traction on ice is the most affordable option, which makes it great for budget-conscious shoppers. It also offers better traction on ice than kitty litter, making it perfect for large areas and sidewalks that need clearing. The only downside is that sand can get messy if it gets wet, so you’ll want to avoid using it around pools or other wet areas where accidents may happen.
Is Sand or Kitty Litter Better for Traction?
Now, let’s delve into the heart of the matter: Is sand for traction on ice or kitty litter better for traction on ice or snow? The effectiveness of each option depends on the situation.
- Sand: Sand is often used for traction on icy roads and sidewalks. It provides a gritty surface that enhances traction by increasing friction between tires or shoes and the slippery surface. Sand is particularly useful for creating traction on flat surfaces.
- Kitty Litter: Kitty litter, especially the non-clumping clay variety, can also improve traction on snow or ice. It has an absorbent nature that can help with minor moisture, making it effective for shallow, slushy, or icy areas. Kitty litter is easy to spread and can provide some grip.
Get ready for winter with Traction Magic instant grip on snow and ice
What Can I Use For Traction On Ice?
Aside from sand and kitty litter, several other traction aids are available:
- Traction Magic: Traction Magic is a natural volcanic rock-based product designed specifically for improving traction on icy and snowy surfaces. It creates an anti-slip surface that helps tires grip the road more effectively. It’s safe for pets, plants, and surfaces, making it a versatile and eco-friendly choice.
- Rock Salt: Rock salt, or road salt, is a commonly used ice-melting agent. While it can melt ice, it doesn’t provide traction. In fact, it can make surfaces even more slippery once the ice begins to melt.
Traction Agent That Has The Pros of Both Sand and Kitty
While Safe Thaw is the best deicer for concrete, Traction Magic is the best traction agent for concrete. Here’s why:
Traction Magic comprises natural volcanic rock and seven other minerals that are 100% environment-friendly and can be used on your driveway or snow-covered roof.
It is not messy, does not stick to the shoes, does not block sewers or gutters, and seamlessly mixes with soil. It acts as a conditioner for plants as well.
Traction Magic helps to build excellent traction on any slippery surface because they instantly absorb water and allow the grippers to lock into the ice, creating a non-skid surface. The best part- it is cost-effective too. It is used in 1/8 of what you would use of sand or kitty litter.
Get ready for winter with Traction Magic instant grip on snow and ice
Conclusion
The bottom line is that both can be used- sand as well as your best cat litter for snow traction. However, it depends on what you’re looking for. If you want something that’s easy to find and store, then kitty litter might be better. But if your budget allows it or you have a large area to cover with your traction product, then sand would be my recommendation. But if you want to avoid the cons of both- you have Traction Magic. I hope this article has helped you decide which one works best for your needs!
FAQs
Other Ice Melt Products
Safe Paw
The Original and the #1 Pet and Child Safe Ice Melt for over 20 years. Guaranteed environmentally safe – will not harm waterways and sensitive wetlands. Safe Paw can change how winter affects our planet.
Safe Thaw
Imagine an ice melt you can put down and never worry about. It won’t harm pets, kids and your property. That’s Safe Thaw. Unlike anything else on the market, Ice and Snow Management You Can Trust.
