How to Disinfect a Litter Box

Odors seem to cling to cat litter boxes, despite the steps you take to kill stink-causing bacteria in the containers. This effective treatment uses run-of-the-mill, pet-friendly household products. It leaves the litter box sparking and free of offensive stenches. And because the cleaners are gentle and relatively odor-free, it's likely that even a picky cat won't notice the change.

Things You'll Need

  • Hose
  • 2 cups white vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • 4 cups water
  • Unscented soap
  • Scrub brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Empty the litter box as usual. Make sure it is free of all cat litter and other debris. Take it outside and rinse it out with the hose.

    • 2

      Pour the vinegar into the litter box. Add 2 tbsp. baking soda and stir. Add the water, and let the solution sit in the box for 2 to 4 hours.

    • 3

      Pour out the cleaning mixture and rinse the box with the hose. Squirt unscented, nontoxic soap into the litter box, add a little bit of water and use the brush to scrub the box. Rinse all soap out of the box with the hose and allow it to dry outside, if possible.

    • 4

      Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda on the bottom of the container. Refill the box with cat litter. Clean the area where the litter box will be placed, then put the box in its usual spot. Repeat this process once every 2 weeks, or as often as necessary.